Technician: Research (Genomics Lab)

The University of Sheffield is a remarkable place to work. Our people are at the heart of everything we do. Their diverse backgrounds, abilities and beliefs make Sheffield a world-class university.

We offer a fantastic range of benefits including a highly competitive annual leave entitlement (with the ability to purchase more), a generous pensions scheme, flexible working opportunities, a commitment to your development and wellbeing, a wide range of retail discounts, and much more. 

Overview

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Technician in the Genomics Laboratory of the University of Sheffield. The Facility supports the laboratory work of internal and external users, either through completing contracted analyses for users or by supervising and training users undertaking their own analyses. We support the research community to address questions in environmental, ecological and evolutionary biology. We have exceptional expertise in genome sequencing, marker analysis, population genomics, metabarcoding and the detection and interpretation of environmental DNA (eDNA).

Your role will include processing samples on behalf of users for molecular and genomic analysis. You will provide technical support maintaining the laboratory and equipment, assist visiting researchers, and participate in research and development to expand the capability of the laboratory.

Applicants must have a BTEC/A level in Biology or a similar subject (or equivalent experience) along with an excellent theoretical and practical knowledge of Molecular Ecology techniques generally, such as DNA extraction, PCR, qPCR, gel electrophoresis. Specific theoretical and practical knowledge of next-generation sequencing or genotyping techniques, such as library preparation or SNP typing is also essential.

Main duties and responsibilities

• Provide technical support for the Facility including:
• Learning and subsequently communicating and training lab techniques to others (e.g. visitors) in line with their needs as customers
• DNA extraction and quality control from recent and historical samples (for example blood, scats, pond water).
• Extraction and analysis of environmental DNA (eDNA)
• Genotyping using SNP markers
• Preparing Illumina and Oxford Nanopore sequencing libraries
• qPCR techniques for quantifying DNA, studying gene expression and telomere analysis
• Maintenance of accurate records, in accordance with University data storage protocols
• Help to ensure the laboratory is fully stocked with consumables and supplies as required
• Independent day-to-day planning, in line with priorities agreed weekly with supervisors
• Support the laboratory manager in their day-to-day organisation and running of the lab
• Understand and comply with Health & Safety, CoSHH risk assessments and waste disposal issues, taking instruction from the laboratory manager
• Attend and contribute to Team Meetings
• Continue your professional development by keeping up to date with current technology, attending training sessions and seminars and by reading the relevant literature
• Carry out other duties, commensurate with the grade and remit of the post

Person Specification

Our diverse community of staff and students recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds, and beliefs of all. We foster a culture where everyone feels they belong and is respected. Even if your experience doesn't match perfectly with this role's criteria, your contribution is valuable, and we encourage you to apply. Please ensure that you reference the application criteria in the application statement when you apply.

Essential criteria

• BTEC/A level in Biology or a similar subject (or equivalent experience) (Assessed at application stage)
• Have an excellent theoretical and practical knowledge of Molecular Ecology techniques generally, such as DNA extraction, PCR, qPCR, gel electrophoresis. (Assessed at application / interview stage)
• Specific theoretical and practical knowledge of next-generation sequencing or genotyping techniques, such as library preparation or SNP typing. (Assessed at application / interview stage)
• Good IT skills (Windows, Office; Excel) and willingness to learn new applications (Assessed at application stage)
• Ability to manage own workload day-to-day and use time effectively (Assessed at interview stage)
• Ability to teach techniques and supervise others in the lab. (Assessed at application / interview stage)
• Ability to produce oral or written reports summarising progress. (Assessed at interview stage)

Desirable criteria

• Knowledge of next-generation sequencing applications (Assessed at interview stage)
• Basic bioinformatic skills sufficient to enable molecular experimental design and initial analysis, such as sequence alignment and primer/probe design (Assessed at interview stage)