Research Assistant

About the Role:

As a Research Assistant, you will be responsible for conducting SOP described work within the ToL Core Laboratory. Training will be provided, and a focus on quality, transparency and attention to detail will be a strong priority. You will be working with a team of Advanced Research Assistants, learning about their work and how your actions can support them, and have a strong impact on the work of the Tree of Life programme.

You will be responsible for:

• Routine throughput of sample processing- selection and prepping for DNA/ RNA extractions or HiC submissions. Sample prepping involves dissecting, weighing, cryoprepping, bead beating and powermashing of samples.
• To plan and organise their own day-to-day activities in relation to shared goals, equipment time and other team members work patterns, in order to maintain individual and team output. Working with their line manage to understand the priorities of tasks and manage their time accordingly.
• To maintain a detailed, correct and up-to-date digital record of experimental procedures and laboratory activities. To transition this to new digital formats as they come on line, and work toward their implementation and design.
• To maintain laboratory equipment, through both simple cleaning and maintenance, reporting any faults to the suppliers so that they may be rectified quickly; Ensuring that the laboratory is tidy, safe and well-stocked with consumables
• Recommend relevant equipment purchases. Provide regular feedback to the line manager aiming to spot potential problems before they become issues. To report on project progress through lab meetings and one-to-one meetings as necessary.
• To follow safe work practices within the team, in particular with respect to laboratory and biological safety.
• To ensure that all work being carried out is done so within the institutes research policies, and to make sure that all research undertaken is ethical and legal.

About Us:

• The Tree of Life Programme is a major initiative to provide high-quality reference genomes. There are many projects within the programme, including the Darwin project that aims to sequence all eukaryotic species in the Atlantic archipelago (Britain and Ireland). The project includes a wide range of partners across the UK such as the National History Museum (NHM), Kew Gardens, The Royal Botanic Gardens Edinburgh, The Earlham Institute, Wytham Woods and the Marine Biological Association (MBA). These genomes promise to transform our understanding of biodiversity, and our ability to conserve it.
• About You:
• You will enjoy laboratory-based work, and be competent with basic molecular biology techniques. You will be an excellent communicator and have experience of working collaboratively. You will be well organised with the ability to work flexibly to support a number of projects and changing priorities.

Essential Technical Skills:

• BSc in a biological science or relevant laboratory experience
• A basic and general understanding of molecular biology and associated practical techniques relevant to the role
• Good manual dexterity and attention to detail; quality driven
• Computer literate: Microsoft Office programmes including Word and Excel
• Skilled in time management, able to predict and communicate how and when tasks will be achieved

Competencies and Behaviours

• A high level of interpersonal and communications skills, confident in disseminating information to various audiences
• Ability to work collaboratively, supporting members of the team and reporting results in an open and timely manner
• Be open minded and willing to try out new approaches and solutions
• Excellent record keeping
• Works independently, once given adequate training, and capable of managing workloads and working to deadlines

Please use the below link for job application and quicker response.

https://lifelancer.com/jobs/view/b75fc761ce3f6a68d4c4cfd859e0840a