Job overview

Are you a molecular biologist with next generation sequencing skills and a desire to make a difference to cancer patients in clinical trials? Passionate about characterising complex diseases via comprehensive profiling in DNA and RNA, as part of a large dynamic team of experienced scientists? 

Main duties of the job

This post is for a molecular biologist specializing in genomics to work in the Royal Marsden BRC Translational Research team, supporting clinical trials and translational research projects. The post-holder will work with a highly experienced laboratory manager and senior research scientists to develop, optimize, and implement laboratory workflows that will deliver comprehensive genomic profiling of cancer patients in a timely and efficient manner. In particular the post-holder will take responsibility for delivery of genomic profiling for at least one large clinical trial (MANIFEST). 

Detailed job description and main responsibilities

Take primary responsibility for delivery of exome sequencing and RNAseq for the large multicentre MANIFEST immune-oncology clinical trial. Operate specialist equipment including cfDNA/DNA/RNA extraction units, PCR thermal cyclers, automated liquid handlers, DNA sequencers (Illumina Miseq, Nextseq, Novaseq, Nanopore) ddPCR systems. Train and supervise junior members of the team or placement students. Liaise with the laboratory manager to prioritise work on a day-to-day basis and with colleagues to co-ordinate service provision. Liaise with equipment service engineers regarding aspects of machine support, to be able to identify problems and ensure continuity of service. Undertake validation and implementation of new technologies to contribute to personalised cancer medicine in both diagnostic and clinical trial setting. Be competent with the use of computers and software, both scientific and office-based.

Person specification

Skills

Essential criteria

Good interpersonal and communication skills Ability to write clear and concise scientific report Competent in using of Microsoft software or equivalent Ability to perform standard scientific calculations, data analysis and interpretation using complex genetics software Ability to troubleshoot laboratory and logistical problems

Personal Qualities

Essential criteria

Proven commitment to personal development and enthusiasm for the job Self-confident, contributes to laboratory meetings, committed to team working Flexible approach to work, ability to work independently

Specific Experience

Essential criteria

BSc in a scientific subject relevant to genomics MSc in a genetics/genomics related subject Understanding and/or experience of SOPs Understanding and work experience in genetics/genomics Laboratory experience with DNA and RNA based methods Knowledge of bioinformatic approaches for analysis of genomic data Able to work to deadlines as well as organise daily work plans and schedules Proven ability to plan genomics workflows and experience of high throughput sequencing technologies

Clinical Responsibility

Essential criteria

Ability to review anomalous / unexpected findings and take further appropriate action

Desirable criteria

Ability to extrapolate from basic information to consider additional investigations to perform

Management Experience

Essential criteria

Experience of managing a genomics project for delivery in a clinical trial context

Desirable criteria

Ability to manage stock and liaise with company representatives

The Royal Marsden values diversity and is committed to the recruitment and retention of underrepresented minority groups. We particularly welcome applications from Black, Asian and minority ethnic candidates, LGBTQ+ candidates and candidates with disabilities.

 As a Disability Confident Employer, we are working to create a workplace that enables all staff to reach their full potential. We are committed to this because we know that greater diversity and inclusion will lead to an even greater positive impact for the people we serve.

Due to the high volumes of applications we receive, we reserve the right to close any adverts before the published closing date once we have received a sufficient number of applications. We advise you to submit your application as early as possible to prevent disappointment.

Flu Vaccination – What We Expect of our Staff

At The Royal Marsden we have an immune compromised patient population who we must protect as much as we can against the flu virus. Each year, seasonal flu affects thousands of people in the UK. Occurring mainly in winter, it is an infectious respiratory disease capable of producing symptoms ranging from those similar to a common cold, through to very severe or even fatal disease.

The wellbeing of our staff and patients is of the upmost importance to us, and it is the expectation of The Royal Marsden that all patient-facing staff have an annual flu vaccination, provided free of charge by the Trust.

Employer certification / accreditation badges

Applicant requirements

You must have appropriate UK professional registration.

The postholder will have access to vulnerable people in the course of their normal duties and as such this post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (Amendment) (England and Wales) Order 2020 and as such it will be necessary for a submission for Disclosure to be made to the Disclosure and Barring Service to check for any previous criminal convictions.