Insectary Research Technician

About the role:

We are seeking to appoint one Insectary Research Technician to join a project that aims to build and improve gene drive systems, based on the use of CRISPR/Cas9 expressed in the germline of the mosquito vectors of malaria, with the ultimate goal of malaria control by decreasing the reproductive potential of mosquito populations.

What you would be doing:

You will assist with straightforward tasks within well-established insectary and laboratory routines and procedures, under the limited supervision of your line manager. You will have daily interactions with a large team of postdocs, students, and research technicians within the Crisanti group and provide technical support to the group to produce independent, original research as part of a larger, multidisciplinary research consortium called Target Malaria.

You will contribute to the smooth running and regulatory compliance of the insectary facility used by the group, including acting as a caretaker of mosquito strains, adapting new strains coming from the repository, establishing and assessing new transgenic strains, carrying out regular molecular quality controls and ensuring that the colonies are healthy and that supply samples are available to the group when needed. Duties will also include performing routine, straightforward tasks, such as washing trays, bottles, and cages and partaking in lab and insectary rotas.

What we are looking for:

You will have a Bachelor’s degree in a biological sciences subject and previous experience supporting the operations of a laboratory/insectary environment.  

You will have working knowledge of molecular biology theory and practical methods applied to the generation and molecular analysis of modified mosquitoes (such as DNA/RNA extractions, PCRs and cloning).

Previous experience of working with mosquitoes and insect-based procedures, including rearing, counting, screening, and dissecting, assisting with injections and phenotype assays is an essential requirement.   

A well-developed understanding of health and safety regulations and procedures, and basic knowledge of microscopy and bioinformatic tools (i.e. software for plasmid design and analysis), are also necessary.

You should be a highly motivated individual who can work collaboratively and be open-minded, taking a positive approach to routine work and training opportunities relevant to the role.

What we can offer you:

You will be able to interact daily with a large team of research associates, senior research technicians and students within the Crisanti group, and contribute to advancing original research with a high global health and societal impact as part of a larger multi-disciplinary research consortium called Target Malaria.

This is an excellent opportunity to continue your career and develop in your role with access to learning and development opportunities at a world-leading institution.

Further Information

This is a full-time, fixed-term on-site position available until 31 December 2029.

You will be based at South Kensington Campus and will be required to work on-site. The starting salary will be in the range defined, depending on experience. Appointments will usually be made at the bottom of the scale.

If you require any further details on the role please contact: Matthew Gribble, m.gribble@imperial.ac.uk or Clelia Supparo, c.supparo@imperial.ac.uk                                             

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