Job Purpose

To provide in-depth technical expertise for creating inducible gene knockouts in human malaria parasites (Plasmodium falciparum) and provide advice on the set up and best operation of equipment and procedures to aid delivery objectives.This post is based within the School of Infection and Immunity, working under the supervision of Dr Abhinay Ramaprasad (Principal Investigator) whose main research focus is to study genes that control parasite replication within red blood cells, a critical process that enables malaria parasites to multiply and progress through the clinically significant blood-stage infection. The postholder will use state-of-the-art gene-editing technologies such as CRISPR-Cas9 and DiCre to inducibly knock out essential genes in the parasite.Main Duties and Responsibilities1. Provide in-depth technical support for generation of inducible gene knockout mutant parasite lines. This involves developing and implementing streamlined molecular cloning protocols to produce transfection-ready plasmids at scale.2. Provide assistance and technical support relating to malaria culture work in a Containment Level 3 laboratory. This involves day-to-day maintenance of P. falciparum cultures and transfections to produce genetically modified parasite lines.3. In liaison with PI to maintain the group’s laboratory equipment and diagnose faults and troubleshoot day-to-day problems relating to equipment, techniques, procedures, and protocols.4. In liaison with the PI, advise, implement, and evaluate improvements to existing protocols relevant as required.5. Collect, analyse and interpret data using standard procedures and ensure that accurate research records are kept, and databases are updated accordingly.6. Plan and organise day-to-day work to ensure that the experimental goals are delivered within previously agreed timescales.7. To supervise junior staff, where appropriate, and instruct, train and provide guidance to research staff and students in the techniques and operation of equipment and apparatus as directed by the supervisor, lab manager or PI.8. Contribute to the well organised functioning of the laboratory and assist the PI/laboratory manager in maintaining the stock levels and purchasing consumables and supplies, within budget, and in consultation with other members of the group.9. In consultation with the PI/laboratory manager, ensure the safe and efficient functioning of the laboratory area and facilities. This includes, but is not limited to, supporting the completion of risk assessments and COSHH assessments, ensuring that all Health and Safety paperwork is completed timeously and recorded accurately, and implementing and adhering to health and safety policies, as determined by the University and the Health and Safety Executive.10. Collaborate with colleagues and participate in team meetings/discussions and departmental research group activities.11. Keep up to date with advancements in technology and methodology, continually updating technical knowledge.12. Be aware of and comply with Equality and Diversity policies of the University of Glasgow. The above duties are not exhaustive, and the post-holder will be required to undertake any other relevant duties as required by the PI/line manager which are commensurate with the grade of the post.Knowledge/Qualifications, Skills and ExperienceKnowledge/QualificationsEssential:A1. Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework level 7 (Advanced Higher / HNC, SVQ 3), or equivalent in relevant science subjectA2. Detailed technical knowledge of molecular biology and cell/tissue culture techniques.A3. Up to date knowledge of relevant laboratory Health and Safety legislation.Desirable:B1. Scottish Credit and Qualifications Framework level 9 (BSc Degree, SVQ Level 4) or equivalent in relevant scientific discipline.B2. Knowledge of Equality and Diversity policy.SkillsEssential:C1. Skills in molecular biology.C2. Skills in cell and tissue culture and aseptic techniques.C3. IT, including familiarity with Microsoft Office programs and relevant databases. C4. Demonstrable analytical and problem-solving abilities.C5. Proven interpersonal and communication skills. C6. Numeracy and literacy skills.C7. A high level of accuracy and attention to detail. C8. Excellent organisational and time management skills and an ability to prioritise workload to meet competing demands.C9. Ability to work individually and as part of a team.Desirable:D1. Skills in high-throughput molecular cloning.ExperienceEssential:E1. Significant relevant work experience in a research laboratory.E2. Laboratory experience in core molecular biology techniques, including but not limited to DNA/RNA extraction, PCR, gel electrophoresis, bacterial culture and plasmid design and assembly.E3. Experience of understanding and interpreting the technical requirements of staff and students.Terms and ConditionsSalary will be Grade 5, £25,138 - £29,605 per annum. This post is full time and has funding for up to 12 months from the start date in first instance. As part of Team UofG you will be a member of a world changing, inclusive community, which values ambition, excellence, integrity and curiosity. As a valued member of our team, you can expect:1 A warm welcoming and engaging organisational culture, where your talents are developed and nurtured, and success is celebrated and shared. 3 A flexible approach to working.