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Research Technician - Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research

Employer
Global Academy Jobs
Location
United Kingdom
Salary
£20,235.00 - £26,274.00
Closing date
Mar 11, 2021

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Job Details

Job Summary

The post is to provide support to Dr Caroline Gorvin's group for 12 months in the Institute of Metabolism and Systems Research. The successful candidate will provide support for an Academy of Medical Sciences funded research project investigating the trafficking and signalling of metabolic G protein-coupled receptors in obesity and endocrine tumours.

Main Duties

RESEARCH 75%

The role holder will provide support for Dr Caroline Gorvin's research group, using a variety of techniques to include, but not exclusively:
  • Tissue culture and transfection of primary and immortalised mammalian cell lines
  • Signalling assays, including HTRF/AlphaScreen, BRET, luciferase reporter assays
  • Immunofluorescence and microscopy including confocal, FRET and TIRF
  • Molecular biology methods such RNA/DNA isolation, cDNA synthesis, PCR and qPCR, and Western blot analysis
  • Cloning (design of new constructs, ligation, mutagenesis, PCR-based cloning, work in E. Coli)


The role holder is expected to be able to troubleshoot problems within his/her control that may affect the overall productivity of the group and achievement of research objectives and deadlines. Experience of working with animal models is adventitious.

HEALTH AND SAFETY/ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES - 10%

  • Encouraging staff and students, working within the area of responsibility, to comply with all basic University / College Health & Safety policies. This may include compliance in the following areas; COSHH, genetically modified organisms (GMOs), human tissue, biological assessments, radioactive materials and schedule 5 toxins etc. Confirming all required assessments are in place, approved and up to date.
  • Maintaining records both paper and computer based as appropriate.
  • Carrying out regular maintenance processes such as flushing eye wash stations as appropriate and ensuring records are maintained.
  • Reporting any breaches or non-compliance with H&S procedures to the PI, Technical Manager, Laboratory Manager or College Safety Adviser.
  • Upholding the correct waste disposal stream as governed by College and local policy for laboratory, recycled and general waste
  • Adopt a proactive attitude to assisting with and implementing carbon reduction and energy saving measures


GENERAL ADMINISTRATION AND ORGANISATION - 8%

The post holder will assist with the daily administration and organisation of the work area. These duties include:

  • Maintaining stocks of consumables, if necessary, creating purchase order requisitions for the College finance office or via web based ordering system
  • Receipt and correct storage of consumables and chemical reagents.
  • Ensuring that the facilities are maintained in a clean, functional and safe condition, reporting any problems through the appropriate channels.
  • Ensuring the best use of equipment through booking systems, if appropriate
  • Reporting any problems with equipment or services to the line manager as appropriate.


Any other duties commensurate with the grade and skill base of the post holder as directed by either the Principle investigator for research based activities or the Technical Managers for non research based activities

OTHER DUTIES - 7%
  • In collaboration with the Laboratory Manager or supervisor the post holder will take an active role in the training and mentoring process for junior or newly appointed staff/students
  • To actively engage in the Personal Development Process
  • To contribute at a level appropriate with the grade, to internal and external audit procedures, and to regulatory inspections.
  • Assist Technical Managers and/or Laboratory Managers in identifying and tracking items held on the University asset register.


Knowledge, Skills, Qualifications and Experience Required
  • NVQ, BTEC/ONC or equivalent; or specific relevant experience in an appropriate subject.
  • GCSE (A*- C) or equivalent in mathematics
  • Proven practical experience of relevant techniques required for the post and Good Laboratory Practice
  • Positive service attitude and shows courtesy in dealing with others
  • Ability to organise and manage own work load after consultation with supervisor and demonstrate flexibility in terms of work practices/requirements
  • Ability to work as part of a team but to perform under minimum supervision
  • Awareness of current relevant H&S policies
  • Proficiency in commonly used software packages
  • Willingness to work towards professional registration


Informal enquiries to Caroline Gorvin, email: c.gorvin@bham.ac.uk

We value diversity at The University of Birmingham and welcome applications from all sections of the community

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