Senior Research Technician

Fixed Term 2 years, commencing 1^st August 2024 

The Opportunity

This is an exciting opportunity for an ambitious and proactive Senior Research Technician to join the research laboratory led by Dr Shivanand Hegde at Keele University. The successful candidate will contribute to an Academy of Medical Sciences funded Springboard Award to investigate the interactions between gut bacteria and arboviruses in the mosquitoes and to develop new approaches to combat the spread of mosquito borne diseases. The post holder will provide technical support with molecular procedures, mosquito rearing and their infection with Zika and chikungunya viruses in the laboratory. 

It is essential that you hold a BSc degree or have equivalent experience in relevant area of research, e.g. molecular microbiology, and virology with a laboratory management experience. Experience of working in a laboratory setting is essential along with theoretical and practical knowledge of techniques such as handling of bacterial and virus cultures, cell culture, DNA/RNA/Protein extraction/purification, PCR/qPCR and gel electrophoresis. 

Previous work experience using insects, insect tissues, and/or microbial and viral cultures is desirable. 

The Benefits

The University recognises that its success depends upon the contribution and dedication of its talented staff. In return, we have a competitive benefits package available, including:  

• Competitive rate of pay with annual increments within the grade (Keele Spine)
• Generous annual leave entitlement with opportunities to purchase additional leave  
• Excellent staff pension scheme   
• Access to continued personal, professional and career development   
• On site ‘outstanding’ nursery    
• Discounted health & fitness facilities on site  
• Cycle to work scheme (subject to eligibility)

Please note that the starting salary will typically be at the bottom of the pay scale shown above.

The University is committed to operating flexible working practices wherever possible. 

The University

Further information can be found at https://www.keele.ac.uk/about/

Technician Commitment

Keele is one of more than 35 universities and research institutions from across the UK which have backed a pledge to support their technicians. The Technician Commitment is a sector-wide initiative led by the Science Council and supported by the Gatsby Foundation, which aims to help address key challenges facing technical staff working in research. Five target areas have been identified, and the commitment will ensure greater visibility, recognition, career development and sustainability for technicians across all disciplines at Keele.

Keele University values equality and diversity across our workforce and to ensuring our staff community is reflective of the diversity of our student population. In support of these commitments the University welcomes applications from individuals of Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds for all roles.

Please note this appointment is subject to medical clearance by the University’s Occupational Health provider.

How to Apply

To apply online for this vacancy and for full post details and copies of job descriptions, please click on the 'Apply' button above. 

Keele University employees wishing to apply should login to Employee Self Service and click on the 'View current vacancies' link. 

Informal enquiries may be addressed Dr Shivanand Hegde (s.m.hegde@keele.ac.uk). Applications to this address will not be accepted. 

Closing Date: 7 July 2024

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