Research Technician

Vacancy terms: Full-time, or job share considered, fixed term contract until 31 July 2025

Hours per week: 35

About the role

We are seeking a skilled Research Technician to support the Higgins Lab at the University of Leicester in investigating meiosis in plants. This role will involve conducting molecular biology experiments on Arabidopsis and bacteria, including cloning, CRISPR/Cas, DNA extraction, PCR, and fluorescence microscopy. You will also contribute to plant husbandry, data analysis, and supervision of students, ensuring the smooth running of the laboratory.

Working as part of a dynamic research team, you will help generate high-quality data that contributes to publications and scientific advancement. You will also be responsible for maintaining laboratory stocks, ordering consumables, and liaising with suppliers as required. This role offers an excellent opportunity to gain hands-on experience in a leading research environment.

About you

The ideal candidate will have a technical or scientific education at least to degree level or significant relevant experience which should include fluorescence microscopy, performing molecular biology techniques on Arabidopsis and bacteria. You should also have experience in protein expression and purification and designing and executing CRISPR/Cas experiments. 

You should have excellent IT skills and be a proficient user of software packages including primer design and sequence analysis. The ability to assess problems and take appropriate action is also essential.

Additional information

Informal enquiries are welcome and should be made to Prof. James Higgins on jh555@leicester.ac.uk

Applications for job share will be considered.

As part of the University’s ongoing commitment to professional development, this role will also be considered on a seconded basis for existing staff members. Please ensure this is discussed with your line manager prior to applying.

The University of Leicester has been changing the world, and changing people’s lives, for 100 years. When you join us, you’ll become part of a community of Citizens of Change, which includes not only our staff and our current students but also thousands of Leicester graduates around the world.

As a diverse and forward-thinking employer, we embed the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion into everything we do. That includes not just our core missions of teaching and research, but also our support for staff, students and our local community through our values of Inspiring, Impactful and Inclusive. 

We’re committed to the wellbeing of all our staff and to the sustainability of our environment, on our campus and beyond. We offer a competitive salary package, excellent pension scheme and a generous annual leave allowance, along with opportunities to develop your career in a supportive and collaborative environment.

Advert closes midnight on: 26 March 2025

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