Technical Specialist

Department
We are looking for a talented and motivated full-time technical specialist to join the Jack Birch Unit (JBU) led by Prof Will Brackenbury. The Jack Birch Unit (JBU) is an epithelial cancer research unit based in the Department of Biology and is affiliated with the York Biomedical Research Institute (YBRI). Beyond a well-equipped main lab area, the JBU has specialist labs for human primary cell and tissue culture, histology and immunohistology, molecular biology, microbiology and microscopy. The JBU is the flagship research unit of local charity York Against Cancer. The post is full-time, on a fixed-term basis for 1 year, funded by York Against Cancer.

Role
The primary focus of this role will be to actively contribute to our ongoing research programme looking at the origins of bladder cancer using human cell and tissue models, with additional emphasis on development of breast cancer and colon cancer cell and tissue models. A secondary responsibility of this role will be to manage the JBU’s NHS Research Tissue Bank; “URoBank”. URoBank is a specialist resource, managed to HTA standards which underpins much of the JBU’s bladder epithelial (“urothelial”) research programme and holds valuable donated cells and tissues from the urinary tract. We are seeking to appoint a candidate with a strong track record in both epithelial tissue research and tissue bank management. A core attribute we are seeking is the ability to manage these two distinct responsibilities within the role.

Skills, Experience & Qualification needed
The successful candidate will have an undergraduate degree, or equivalent relevant experience. Professional registration with RSci/REng (or equivalent), or willingness to work towards it. An in depth and current theoretical and practical knowledge of epithelial cell biology and a broad understanding and in-depth knowledge of the relevant safety legislation & regulations are essential. The candidate must have a proven track record in the application of the technical skills associated with epithelial cell biology and the ability to work independently with initiative, using problem solving and analytical skills. They must have the ability to analyse and interpret complex data, be competent in statistical and mathematical methods for analysis, and able to provide scientific data in written format for publications. We are looking for someone who has demonstrable experience of working on their own initiative, training others, and application of knowledge to improve service of their technical specialism.

It would be desirable for the candidate to have a track record in epithelial cancer research and experience of working under the Human Tissue Act (and with NHS Research Ethics systems such as IRAS). Experience of managing a research tissue bank is also desirable for this role.

Interview date: to be confirmed.

For informal enquiries: please contact Professor Will Brackenbury on 01904 328284 or at william.brackenbury@york.ac.uk.

The University strives to be diverse and inclusive – a place where we can ALL be ourselves.

We particularly encourage applications from people who identify as Black, Asian or from a Minority Ethnic background, who are underrepresented at the University.

We offer family friendly, flexible working arrangements, with forums and inclusive facilities to support our staff. #EqualityatYork

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