Insectary and Laboratory Technician

About the role:

We are seeking to appoint one Insectary and Laboratory Technician to join a project that aims to build and improve gene drive systems, based on the use of CRISPR/Cas9 expressed in the germline of the mosquito vectors of malaria, with the ultimate goal of malaria control by decreasing the reproductive potential of mosquito populations. The post requires working on straightforward tasks within well-established routines and procedures, predominantly in an insectary environment and under regular, direct supervision of the line manager.

What you would be doing:

You will be responsible for rearing and maintaining up to 25 mosquito strains for the research group and for performing routine straightforward tasks to appropriate time and quality requirements. Laboratory tasks will specifically involve washing trays, bottles, and cages, replenishing stock consumables, and monitoring supplies. A basic understanding of Health and Safety regulations and procedures is essential for this post.

What we are looking for:

• You will have a Bachelor Degree or equivalent vocational qualification in a biological sciences subject is required as well as previous experience of working with insects and mosquito rearing and maintenance techniques.
• You will have practical experience, preferably in a relevant technical/scientific role, in molecular biology techniques, including RNA extraction, reverse transcription, polymerase chain reaction, qPCR, gel electrophoresis, DNA purification, blotting and probing.is highly desirable, but not essential.
• You must have a basic understanding of working to Health and Safety procedures and knowledge of microscopy are required for this role as well as good verbal and written communication skills, accurate record keeping skills and the ability to prioritise tasks to meet deadlines tight deadlines.
• You should be a highly motivated individual and demonstrate the ability to learn how to use standard laboratory equipment and basic scientific techniques. You will also be expected to be able to work in a collaborative manner, be open-minded with a positive approach to routine work as well as to training opportunities relevant to the role.

What we can offer you:

You will interact daily a large team of postdocs, students and senior research technicians within the Crisanti group and provide them with basic technical support to produce independent and original research as part of a large, multi-disciplinary research consortium called Target Malaria. The Crisanti lab has achieved several notable successes in recent years and is at the frontier in the field of mosquito transgenesis, genome editing and gene drive.

This is a great opportunity to continue your career, train and acquire new skills at a world-leading institution.

Further Information

This is a full-time, fixed-term on-site position available till 31 January 2025, with the possibility of extension, subject to the availability of funding.

You will be based at South Kensington Campus and will be required to work onsite.

The starting salary will be in the range defined, depending on experience. Appointments will usually be made at the bottom of the scale.

If you require any further details on the role please contact: Dr. Carla Siniscalchi c.siniscalchi@imperial.ac.uk

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