Technician in Microbiology (TC881)

Faculty of Science
School of Biological Sciences 

Technician in Microbiology
Ref: TC881

Starting salary from £24,715 per annum, dependent on skills and experience, with an annual increment up to £28,131 per annum  

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Technician to join the School of Biological Sciences to assist in the research under the supervision of Prof Jonathan Todd and Associate Professor David Lea-Smith to study “DMSP synthesis in cyanobacteria and a range of heterotrophic bacteria via a novel biosynthetic process” which is funded through a NERC grant. The aim of the project is to study the production of DMSP in diverse bacterial species, the level of global production of DMSP and its degradation products and how this affects the global climate.

The successful applicant will assist in quantification of DMSP and DMS stocks, and synthesis and catabolic rates from saltmarsh and marine samples. Specifically, you will perform RNA isolation, cloning, qPCR, protein purification and GC/LCMS. You will be responsible for appropriately archiving storing lab microbes and environmental samples. There is an expectation to provide advice and demonstrate techniques to students in their discipline and to help manage lab safety and resourcing.

You will hold or expect to be awarded within 3 months of appointment, a BSc in a relevant research area. Significant laboratory experience and bacterial culturing methods are required along with strong oral and written communication skills.

This full-time post is available from 1 July 2024 on a fixed term basis for 22 months.

Benefits include:

• 34 days annual leave inclusive of Bank Holidays and University Customary days.
• Family and Work-life balance policies including hybrid working and considerable maternity, paternity, shared parental leave and adoption leave.
• Generous pension scheme with life cover for dependants, plus incapacity cover.
• Health and Wellbeing: discounted access to Sportspark facilities, relaxation rooms, 320 acres of rolling parkland, wellbeing walks, Wellbeing Ambassador network, medical centre, Occupational Health and a 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme.
• Campus Facilities: Sportspark, library, nursery, supermarket, post office, bars and catering outlets.
• Exclusive shopping discounts to help cut the cost of household bills, childcare salary sacrifice scheme, Cycle to Work scheme and public transport discounts.
• Personal Development: unlimited access to LinkedIn Learning courses, specialist advice and training from our Organisational Development and Professional Learning Team.

Closing date: 17 May 2024

The University holds an Athena Swan Silver Institutional Award in recognition of our advancement towards gender equality.