Overview
We have an exciting opportunity for a Research Technician to join the Clinical Infection Research Group (CIRG) to work on projects involving Phage ImmunoPrecipitation Sequencing (PhIP-Seq) methods. We are looking for a highly organised and enthusiastic individual with a sound background in molecular biology and/or immunology, and ideally experience of next generation sequencing methods.
In this role, you will be expected to process samples collected from clinical cohorts to GCP/GCLP standards. Day to day activities include designing and conducting experiments in the laboratory which include some serology work and sequencing library preparation, followed by analysis and interpretation of data. You will be encouraged to collaboratively work with other laboratory staff on the management of the laboratory.
As the successful application, you will work closely with research teams led by Prof Thushan de Silva. This is a fixed term post for 1 year.
Main duties and responsibilities
- Work within a team to support the set up and sequencing of clinical isolates to GCP/GCLP standards.
- Design and conduct experiments within the laboratory which will include molecular laboratory techniques: automated and manual RNA extraction, standard PCR and microfluidic PCR, library preparation and sequencing, phage immunoprecipitation.
- Learn new laboratory techniques where necessary.
- Independently design, develop and refine experiments in order to obtain high-quality, reproducible data.
- Use own technical expertise and knowledge to advise on experimental methods, techniques and troubleshooting.
- Analyse, record and interpret data to aid the design of future research.
- Prepare and present data at group and departmental scientific meetings.
- Communicate with laboratory staff at other sites if necessary (including overseas) to help set-up assays and ensure consistent laboratory practice between sites.
- Assist in the day-to-day running of the laboratory by maintaining stocks, purchasing consumables and oversee equipment status as required.
- Liaise with others in the department to ensure compliance with Health & Safety regulations, CoSHH, Risk Assessments and SOPs.
- Write, amend & revise CoSHH, Risk Assessments and SOPs relevant to the research group.
- Read relevant literature and attend meetings to keep abreast of developments in the field of
research. - Provide advice, guidance and support to other group members within the laboratory environment.
- Carry out other duties, commensurate with the grade and remit of the post
Person Specification
Our diverse community of staff and students recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds, and beliefs of all. We foster a culture where everyone feels they belong and is respected. Even if your past experience doesn't match perfectly with this role's criteria, your contribution is valuable, and we encourage you to apply. Please ensure that you reference the application criteria in the application statement when you apply.
Essential criteria
- Have a good honours degree including a portfolio of laboratory research experience
- Strong background knowledge of and experience in molecular biology techniques, including experience of working with DNA/RNA and performing PCRs or sequencing work
- Ability to work in a high-pressure laboratory environment and complete tasks in an independent and timely manner
- Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, report writing skills, experience of delivering presentations
- Ability to work effectively within a team
- Ability to develop creative approaches to problem solving and independently initiate troubleshooting of laboratory assays
- Ability to adhere to research protocol, maintain study deadlines and
keep meticulous records of experiments undertaken - Excellent organisational skills with a rigorous and reliable approach, both personally and in terms of laboratory procedures and protocols
- Ability to independently assess and organise resources, and plan and progress work activities
Desirable criteria
- Experience of processing clinical samples using GCP/GCLP
Further Information
Grade: 5 - £26,642 - £29,659
Duration: February 2025-January 2026
Line manager: Project manager / Principal Investigator
Direct reports: Principal Investigator
For informal enquiries about this job, contact:
Ms Jose Schutter, Project Manager at cirg-pm@sheffield.ac.uk
Next steps in the recruitment process
It is anticipated that the selection process will take place in the weeks following the application deadline. This will consist of an interview. We plan to let candidates know if they have progressed to the selection stage the week after the closing date. If you need any support, equipment or adjustments to enable you to participate in any element of the recruitment process you can contact the Staffing Team at clinmed-staffing@sheffield.ac.uk.
Our vision and strategic plan
We are the University of Sheffield. This is our vision: sheffield.ac.uk/vision (opens in new window).
What we offer
- A minimum of 38 days annual leave including bank holiday and closure days (pro rata) with the ability to purchase more.
- Flexible working opportunities, including hybrid working for some roles.
- Generous pension scheme.
- A wide range of discounts and rewards on shopping, eating out and travel.
- A variety of staff networks, providing opportunities for social interaction, peer support and personal development (for example, Race Equality, LGBT+, Women's and Parent's networks).
- Recognition Awards to reward staff who go above and beyond in their role.
- A commitment to your development access to learning and mentoring schemes; Technical Career Route.
- A range of generous family-friendly policies
- paid time off for parenting and caring emergencies
- support for those going through the menopause
- paid time off and support for fertility treatment
- and more
More details can be found on our benefits page: sheffield.ac.uk/jobs/benefits (opens in a new window).
We are a Disability Confident Employer. If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria for this job you will be invited to take part in the next stage of the selection process.