Research Laboratory Technician (Microalgae)

About the role

The University of Cambridge, Department of Plant Sciences, is recruiting a Research Laboratory Technician (fixed term, 16 months) to work in Professor Alison Smith's group on chloroplast synthetic biology in microalgae. The post-holder is responsible to the Head of Group and works closely with post-doctoral researchers. The role provides technical support so that research activity runs smoothly, and involves generating, maintaining and characterising transgenic microalgae lines.

Key responsibilities

• Design, develop and modify experimental protocols from verbal instructions, prepare and collate results and use them to change experiments
• Conduct DNA isolation from algal lines, ensure quality control and analyse results
• Perform genotyping, phenotyping and maintenance of diverse algae lines, including transgenic ones; after training, work independently on protocols
• Give technical advice on experimental design, sample preparation and analysis methods
• Maintain the laboratory, instruct colleagues on equipment use and safety, and keep stocks of sterile media and disposables
• After training, run confocal microscopy and plate reader analyses and record data
• Help with housekeeping, safety checks, emergency spillage cleanup and incident records

Required profile

• A-level, NVQ level 3 in a biological subject or equivalent practical experience
• Experience in academic or commercial molecular biology, tissue culture, genetics and microbiology laboratories
• Background in handling laboratory micro-organisms and good aseptic technique
• Ability to organise workload and time schedules, basic IT skills, and good communication at all levels

Required skills

• Plate readers and confocal microscopy are not required but are advantageous
• Ability to set up experiments with minimal supervision and follow strict safety procedures

Salary is £31,236-£35,608 (Grade 5); the contract is full-time and fixed term for 16 months, with funds available until 31 March 2028. Candidates apply online via the University's recruitment system, quoting reference PD51426.