Senior Research Technician

Salary: Full time starting salary is normally in the range £28,397 to £30,210, with potential progression once in post to £33,938. Grade 5

Contract Type: Fixed Term contract up to October 2024

Closes: 6^th May 2024

Are you interested in working in a world-leading department that performs innovative and translational research in all aspects of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation? The School of Sport, Exercise and Rehabilitation Sciences is ranked 6th in the World in the latest QS Subject rankings and in the top 5 in the UK’s Research Excellence Framework. We have a fixed-term (6 month) opportunity for someone with a passion for analytical and clinical chemistry looking to use their skills to make an impact in sport science research.

You will join a group of researchers led by Professor Gareth Wallis who study dietary influences on metabolic responses to exercise. In this role you will primarily be responsible for preparation (extraction, derivatisation) of blood plasma samples from healthy human volunteers and subsequent analysis using gas chromatography mass spectrometry (GC-MS). You may also contribute your expertise to other aspects of analytical or clinical chemistry analysis (e.g., semi-automated clinical chemistry analysis, ELISA). You will provide technical expertise, support, and guidance in research support. You will need an in-depth understanding of the relevant techniques and experimental protocols. You will be able to use your in-depth knowledge to advise on procedures, diagnose and resolve problems, and proactively suggest solutions to issues which arise. You will need to maintain accurate records of all techniques and experimental procedures you carry out, and for any other research activities you may be involved in including results.

Main Duties

• Preparation (e.g., extraction, derivatisation) and analysis (GC-MS) of human blood plasma samples for determination of glucose stable isotope enrichment
• You will be responsible for assisting in managing the experimental and laboratories.
• You will use your in-depth knowledge of methods and procedures to advise on techniques and experimental procedures being used by researchers and/or students. This will involve communicating with colleagues at a range of levels and inexperienced students. 

Person Specification

• First degree in chemistry/biochemistry (or equivalent field).
• Direct experience in working in wet laboratory environments with human biological samples and with GC-MS
• Extensive relevant workplace experience, equivalent professional qualification or degree in an appropriate subject.
• GCSE level 2 (A*- C) or equivalent level 2 qualification in mathematics and English. 

Informal enquires can be directed to Professor Gareth Wallis g.a.wallis@bham.ac.uk.

To download the full job description and details of this position and submit an electronic application online please click on the above ‘Apply’ button.

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