Senior Platform Technician (Fixed Term)
Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available until 31st March 2028, in the first instance.
Applications are invited for a Senior Platform technician to work with Dr Soumpourou, Platform Manager for the Crop Science Centre. The Crop Science Centre which opened in October 2020 benefits from the diverse skills and expertise of the University of Cambridge and NIAB, providing an environment for research excellence in crops, with the drive and expertise for scientific translation to address real-world problems. About 100 staff and students are located at the Centre.
The successful candidate will be joining a vibrant and interactive group of researchers and professional service staff and work with the CSC Platforms Manager to provide genomic services to researchers at the Crop Science Centre (CSC) and working in the international project Engineering the Nitrogen Symbiosis for Africa (ENSA). Platform operations will include the delivery of multi- gene DNA assemblies in Agrobacterium from synthesized modules using Golden Gate and the genetic selection of plant lines including nucleic acid purification from leaf material for genotyping, copy-number determination, and gene-expression analysis.
The role holder will develop protocols, troubleshoot techniques and deliver projects supporting the research teams in DNA construct assembly and plant genotyping. The Senior Platform Technician will also work with another Platform Technician to support the daily operation of the platforms and contribute to the general running of the CSC laboratory.
In particular, the role holder will be required to develop PCR, TaqMan assays, optimize construct assembly designs, develop restriction digest profiles and undertake routine Sanger sequencing. The role holder will also enhance the throughput and efficiency of the platforms by implementing protocols for DNA extraction, PCR set up and sequencing using automated liquid handling equipment. The role holder will also have the opportunity to support the research programme of individual postdoctoral researchers.
The role holder must have practical experience of molecular biology techniques, molecular cloning, genetics, working with large number of samples and working with plants in a lab environment. Experience in a scientific platform service environment, preparing media stocks and sterile working practices (bacteria or plant tissue culture) is essential. Practical experience in performing high-throughput DNA extractions as well as preparing AGL1 and DH5a competent cells would be advantageous. Experience in lab management such as maintaining and servicing lab equipment and/or organizing procurement of lab consumables would be desirable.
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Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a health assessment.
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Please quote reference PD43054 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.