Contact Person: Dr Marcus Wilson

Contact Email: marcus.wilson@ed.ac.uk, marcus.wilson@crick.ac.uk

A motivated candidate is invited to join the research group of Marcus Wilson as a research technician. The group studies the reading writing and erasing of epigenetic marks, using a combination of structural biology, biochemical and biophysical techniques (https://mdwilsonlab.com).

Applicants should have or be near completion of an undergraduate degree (or equivalent) in biology or chemistry. Previous lab experience in a biological lab is required, with experience in protein purification and biochemistry desirable. The successful applicant will aid and drive projects in the lab as well as help with the day-to-day running of the lab. The successful candidate will benefit from training in a vibrant intellectual and collaborative environment of the newly formed Wilson lab. Applications on either a full time or part time basis (min 0.6 FTE) will be considered.

The post is initially for one year with the possibility of extension. Informal enquiries should be addressed to marcus.wilson@ed.ac.uk.

1. Job Details

Job title: Research Technician 
School/Support Department: School of Biological Sciences 
Unit: Institute of Quantitative Biology, Biochemistry and Biotechnology 
Line manager: Dr Marcus Wilson

2. Job Purpose

To provide research assistance and technical support to the Wilson lab research team with a focus on the delivery of specified tasks within the research programmes. Aid in day-to-day running of the laboratory, including equipment upkeep, health & safety, and ordering. Development of standard protocols for molecular biology, biochemistry and structural biology approaches, including bacterial and insect protein expression and electron microscopy specimen preparation.

3. Main Responsibilities

1. Provide technical support such as generating protein and DNA reagents to group members and conduct research experiments using molecular biology and biochemical techniques, including DNA cloning and protein purification research methods. Maintain laboratory records. Diagnose and rectify faults/problems with equipment and procedures. Test new equipment, materials, systems and/or processes under general instructions. Ensure that equipment/apparatus/systems etc. in own area are maintained, serviced, backed-up and repaired as required, including taking appropriate action to protect IT systems. (Approx% of time 65)

2. Be responsible for laboratory orders, health and safety records and risk assessments. Monitor and maintain a safe working environment in accordance to Health & Safety procedures. Day-to-day maintenance of laboratory equipment including liaising with purchasing and outside vendors/representatives. (Approx % of time 20)

3. Assist with supervision of student projects and/or instruction of students (and other research group members) in the use of equipment/demonstration of techniques. (Approx % of time 5)

4. Contribute to the production of research reports and publications. (Approx % of time 5)

5. Continually update knowledge and develop skill base within the defined research area. (Approx % of time 5)

4. Planning and Organising

• The post holder will have responsibility for a range of duties, which require prioritisation and forward planning of research activity.
• Plan own work in accordance with the overall timetable for the research project(s), ensuring that all deadlines are met. This will normally be done in consultation with Marcus Wilson and other members of the research team.
• Contribute to the planning of the research through scheduling a programme of research experiments, and organisation of data analysis and review.
• Plan and oversee the day-to-day technical running of a laboratory and research project, providing technical supervision of junior technical staff and/or students in order to ensure work objectives are met.

The closing date is 5pm GMT on 04 June 2018.