Research Associate in Molecular Biology

Heriot-Watt University has established a reputation for world-class teaching and leading-edge, relevant research, which has made it one of the top UK universities for innovation, business, and industry.

The School of Engineering & Physical Sciences has an international research reputation and close connection with the professional and industrial world of science, engineering, and technology. 

Job Summary

Heriot-Watt University is seeking to recruit an enthusiastic candidate to help deliver research in the area of Molecular Biology. The successful candidate will be employed for a period of 24 months at 100% FTE, as part of a project entitled “MicroSNARE: Automated Enrichment Of Circulating Tumour DNA For Improved Cancer Treatment”.

Detailed Description

This research is funded by EPSRC and aims to develop novel solutions for the enrichment of circulating tumour DNA. The recruited researcher will be responsible for developing and testing methods to enrich specific sequence variants from within cancer patient’s cell free DNA samples. They will also collaborate with Bioengineers in the deployment of a fluid-handling robotic platform, whose performance will be compared to a microfluidic system. In addition, they may contribute to the acquisition and transport of clinical samples to Heriot-Watt campus, and will be responsible for the quality control, and data management throughout the project.

The post-holder will be required to demonstrate experience of standard molecular biology protocols. They will be expected to work as part of a wider research team.

The role will be based at the University's campus in Edinburgh. The candidate will have the access to established university resources, and an induction programme will be delivered to all new appointees. 

Key duties and responsibilities

The post holder is required to:

• Conduct and manage research and related administrative activities, with guidance as required, ensuring that project aims and objectives are met. 
• Working closely with the supervisory team, develop and plan research objectives. 
• Present information on research progress and outcomes to, for example, project lead, research team, etc. 
• Support the publication or research reports, conference, and indexed journal papers in line with project requirements. 
• Build appropriate networks within the team. 
• Support dissemination and contribute to the preparation of technical workshops, seminars, and conferences as appropriate. 
• Ensure that all data collection undertaken as part of the project is done so ethically and in line with both UK (GDPR) privacy and data protection policies, and in compliance with the requirements of the funder. 

Essential Criteria

Essential

• BSc degree in Biology or related discipline 
• Experience of Molecular Biology (PCR, and other DNA quantification, sequencing). 
• Clear communicator with excellent organisational skills, and experience of quality control 
• Fluent (verbal and written) in English  
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Software (Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint) 
• Hardworking, proactive, willing to learn new things 
• Ability to work both independently and as part of a team 
• Flexible, self-motivated and able to plan his/her own work 
• Good interpersonal skills 
• Enjoys being part of an academic community, and willing to take a 'hands on' approach from the outset.  

Desirable

• Possesses research and analytical skills with strong capacity to conduct independent research 
• Experience of publishing papers in journals/ conferences 

About our Team

More information regarding the Clinical Microfluidics Laboratory, led by Maiwenn Kersaudy-Kerhoas can be found at: 

https://clinicalmicroflu.eps.hw.ac.uk/ 

and regarding Nick Leslie’s research can be found here: 

https://researchportal.hw.ac.uk/en/persons/nicholas-r-leslie

With state-of-the-art learning resources and teaching spaces, the Heriot Watt University campus is a dynamic and stimulating place to study, boasting an exceptional range of facilities to provide a high-quality student experience. These include a variety of informal study spaces, an extensive library and easy access to IT facilities with wireless Internet connectivity throughout. Teaching activities are styled on a student-centred approach to learning, which means, students develop independence, emotional intelligence, and analytical skills, making them highly sought after by employers.  

Our research focuses on the challenges of significance to our society and draws upon close collaboration with industry and government sectors. Our profile has grown significantly over recent years, and we seek to build upon this success by extending our reach, building upon the themes of innovation and enterprise. Delivering against this next stage is an important step in building capacity for research, innovation, and business engagement in support of our Strategy 2025. 

Heriot-Watt University is committed to securing equality of opportunity in employment and to the creation of an environment in which individuals are selected, trained, promoted, appraised and otherwise treated on the sole basis of their relevant merits and abilities.  Equality and diversity are all about maximising potential and creating a culture of inclusion for all.

Heriot-Watt University values diversity across our University community and welcomes applications from all sectors of society, particularly from underrepresented groups. For more information, please see our website https://www.hw.ac.uk/uk/services/equality-diversity.htm and also our award-winning work in Disability Inclusive Science Careers https://disc.hw.ac.uk/.