Advanced Research Assistant

Short info about job

Detail information about job Advanced Research Assistant. Terms and conditions vacancy

We are seeking a self-motivated and enthusiastic Advanced Research Assistant to join the Sample Management Team within the DNA Pipelines department at the Wellcome Trust Sanger Institute.

The DNA Pipelines department has a central role within WTSI, delivering high quality sequencing and genotyping data to faculty. The Sample Management team is the entry-point to DNA Pipelines, whereby samples (either pre-extracted DNA/RNA or crude material from which DNA/RNA is to be extracted) are received and processed/quality checked before passing on for downstream assays.

The role of Advanced Research Assistant in Sample Management is laboratory based, where you will be responsible for performing these routine techniques in a high throughput environment. Working as part of a team you will be expected to produce quality data within defined timeframes and assist with the everyday running of the laboratory. You will have a strong understanding of the team product portfolio and the scientific theory underpinning the processes.

Essential Skills

• BSc in a biological science or equivalent experience.
• Excellent knowledge and practical experience in relevant techniques to the role.
• Previous work experience as a technician / research assistant in a molecular biology laboratory.
• Theoretical background knowledge of DNA sequencing and genotyping techniques, especially DNA quantification and extraction methods.
• Ability to correctly interpret scientific data.
• Excellent organisational and planning skills in managing competing priorities in a busy environment.
• A high level of interpersonal and communications skills.
• Proven track record of consistent delivery in terms of volume/speed/quality.
• Computer literate: Microsoft Office programmes including Word and Excel, and LIMS.

Ideal Skills

• Basic programming of automation platforms (Beckman, Tecan, Qiagen).
• Experience of working in a regulated environment (GCLP, GLP, ISO).
• Experience with automation and high-throughput assays.
• Experience of working with/handling microbiological organisms.
• Experience of handling/working with hazard group 2 organisms and/or working within a containment level II laboratory.
• Experience in SOP writing and training others.
• Experience in managing small projects.
• Supervisory and lab coordination experience.

Other information

The Sanger Institute is a charitably funded research centre focused on understanding the role of genetics in health and disease. We use state of the art large-scale genomic approaches to drive world-leading projects to uncover the basis of genetic and infectious disease. Our goal is to provide results that can be translated into diagnostics, treatments or therapies that reduce global health burdens.

The Institute is located near Cambridge, UK on the stunning Wellcome Genome Campus. This growing and dynamic site is the British hub of genomic science. It hosts the European Bioinformatics Institute (EBI), Open Targets, a Biodata Innovation Centre and will soon host Genomics England Limited’s 100,000 Genomes Sequencing Centre. The Campus is also home to Wellcome Genome Campus Connecting Science. Connecting Science inspires new thinking, sparks conversation and supports learning by drawing on the ground-breaking research taking place on the Campus. Its mission is to enable everyone to explore genomic science and its impact on research, health and society.