We are seeking to appoint a Research Technician to join a project that aims to build and improve gene drive systems, based on the use of CRISPR/Cas9 expressed in the germline of the mosquito vectors of malaria, with the ultimate goal of malaria control by decreasing the reproductive potential of mosquito populations.

You will perform cloning, molecular diagnostic assays, fertility experiments, caged population experiments, and other laboratory experiments applied to the generation and molecular analysis of modified mosquitoes. This will include assisting in mosquito embryo microinjections and genetic crossing experiments.

Duties will also include contributing to the smooth running and regulatory compliance of the two insectary facilities used by the group, including acting as a caretaker of transgenic mosquito strains, ensuring that mosquito colonies are healthy, and supply samples are available to researchers in the group when needed for experiments. Regular support to phenotype assays and to high standards of insectary maintenance may also be required by the project.

You will have a Bachelor's Degree or equivalent vocational qualification in a biological sciences subject as well as previous experience of working with mosquitoes and in a molecular lab environment.

You will have demonstrable experience, preferably in a relevant technical/scientific role, in molecular biology techniques, including Golden Gate, Site-Directed Mutagenesis, Gibson Assembly, RNA extraction, maxi and minipreps, bacteria transformation, gel purification, polymerase chain reaction, qPCR, and gDNA extractions.

Basic experience in insectary-based procedures such as microinjections, phenotype assays and knowledge of mosquito-rearing and maintenance techniques are also essential as well as a well-developed understanding of health and safety regulations and procedures.

You are also expected to have developed a knowledge of molecular biology theory and practical methods such as electrophoresis, PCR, qPCR, CRISPR/Cas9, site-specific mutagenesis, bacteria, cell-lines transfection and cloning.

You should be a highly motivated individual and demonstrate the ability to learn how to use standard laboratory equipment and basic scientific techniques. You will also be expected to be able to work in a collaborative manner, be open-minded with a positive approach to routine work as well as to training opportunities relevant to the role.

You will interact daily with a large team of research associates and senior research technicians within the Crisanti group and provide them with the required technical support to produce independent and original research as part of a large, multi-disciplinary research consortium called Target Malaria. The Crisanti lab has achieved several notable successes in recent years and is at the frontier in the field of mosquito transgenesis, genome editing and gene drive.

This is a great opportunity to continue your career, train and acquire new skills at a world-leading institution.