Main purpose of job:
We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled technician to join the Department of Cell & Molecular Sciences working in the group of Dr Yunqing Yu. This project aims to develop effective genetic transformation systems for gene editing in wild barley and other Hordeum species, using various morphogenic regulators known to improve transformation and regeneration efficiency. The successful candidate will be responsible for conducting daily experiments in a tissue culture laboratory and assisting other molecular work in the lab.
The candidate will benefit from collaborations through the International Barley Hub, a flagship initiative resulting from a £62M infrastructure investment from Scottish and UK governments at the James Hutton Institute. Training opportunities for career development will be provided.
This position will be fully funded for four years.
Main duties of post holder:
Perform agrobacterium-mediated plant transformation or biolistics.
Start and maintain tissue cultures.
Monitor culture and plant growth to ensure optimal conditions and keep accurate data record.
Genotype and phenotype the transformed plants.
Interact with other team members and collaborators in the associated projects.
PERSON SPECIFICATION
Essential
BSc in plant science, biology, biotechnology, or a related field.
Experience in preparing reagents and media.
Demonstrated ability to maintain an organized and sterile workstation and ensure proper lab hygiene.
Proven track record of accurate and detailed data recording.
Ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
Desirable
- MSc in plant science, biology, biotechnology, or a related field.
- Expertise in tissue culture and plant transformation.
- Experience with molecular biology techniques, including PCR and molecular cloning.
- Experience working with plants.
- Demonstrated ability to troubleshoot issues such as contaminations or abnormal growth patterns.
Other requirements
The successful candidate needs to be highly detail-orientated and organized, and should be able to perform repetitive tasks accurately, and to sit in front of a laminar flow hood for an extended period of time.
How to Apply:
To apply, please submit the following: a curriculum vitae outlining your research experience and skills.
Additional Notes:
Please note the minimum salary threshold for a Skilled Worker Visa is currently £38,700.00. If the advertised salary for this post falls below this threshold, we regret to advise that we may not be able to provide a Certificate of Sponsorship to a non-UK citizen for this role. Applicants who do not meet the conditions to be sponsored as per the UK governments page (https://www.gov.uk/skilled-worker-visa/when-you-can-be-paid-less) will need to demonstrate an alternative right to work.
Please note, when submitting your application, we are aware of an issue with the current eligibility status question. If you are a UK Citizen, please select any one of the options listed and advise of your correct eligibility status in your covering letter. For any other eligibility status, please select as appropriate.
What We Offer:
Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) - A confidential service available to support employees and their families with work or personal problems. Providing access to professional counsellors, psychologists, and work-life consultants available to help and support individuals in tackling all types of problems.
Annual Leave – Generous entitlement up to 40.5 days a year, with carry over possible and guaranteed time-off for Christmas.
Pension - Employer Contribution of 15% in a Personal Pension Plan and employee contribution flexibility.
Self-managed hours and Flexible Working – option to manage and spread your working time in line with organisational needs to create a healthy work life balance.
