We are seeking to recruit a Research Technician, with strong Molecular Biology skills to operate a single cell sequencing platform as a core facility in the university. The work will be line managed by Prof Sonja Vernes.

The School of Biology has established a single cell sequencing platform funded by BBSRC and consisting of a 10X Genomics Chromium device, an Agilent Tapestation and an Illumina NextSeq1000 to facilitate a range of sequencing and single cell sequencing projects within the university and with academic and industry partnerships. A technician is sought to manage and run this platform – this role may involve a range of tasks including input on experimental design, assistance with library preparation, operation and maintenance of equipment, data storage and sharing, and pricing of services. There will also be lab management tasks and responsibilities involved. Additional responsibilities will include some organizational tasks (e.g. ordering) and general housekeeping. A good understanding of the principles of molecular biology and next-gen sequencing is essential and some experience working independently in research or industry labs is desirable. Full training on these devices will be provided. Following training, the postholder is expected to initiate contact with platform users, provide technical expertise, and support platform users with data interpretation to provide an end-to-end single cell sequencing service.

A full-time 12-month position is envisaged initially, however if the platform is run successfully this role has the potential to extend beyond the first 12 months. For this reason, the postholder should be proactive in contributing to the development and implementation of new technology to ensure long-term sustainability of the platform. There is the opportunity to hold this as a part time position (minimum 0.5 FTE) should a suitable applicant require it.

This is an exciting opportunity to get involved in cutting-edge genetics and molecular biology focused research at the University of St Andrews. Key duties involve:

• Working with researchers and industry scientists who wish to utilise the platform to ensure appropriate application of the platform and resources. You will have the opportunity to work with research and industry groups spanning human health and disease, animal behaviour and cognition, ecology, evolution, agriculture and conservation.
• Operating and maintaining the platform to provide data outputs for users.
• Ensuring equipment that comprises the platform is operated correctly, and the equipment is maintained to highest standards.
• Organising, storing, and distributing research data.
• Lab management, organisation, and administration.

Employees of the University have access to a wide range of staff benefits including:

·       Annual leave of 34 days, plus 5 public holidays

·       Membership of the S&LAS Pension Scheme with generous employer contributions

·       A hybrid working environment, including partial homeworking where appropriate and a range of family friendly policies

·       Staff discount scheme for local and national goods and services

·       Free staff parking, employee Carshare and Cycle to Work Schemes and subsidised local bus travel

·       Subsidised sports membership, reduced tuition fees on degree programmes for staff/children of staff, access to library facilities, salary sacrifice scheme and a range of wellbeing initiatives

If you are interested in this position and would like more information or to express your interest before the closing date, we strongly advise you to contact: Prof Sonja Vernes directly at scv1@st-andrews.ac.uk.

More information about the platform and host lab can be found at the following websites, respectively: https://sequencing.wp.st-andrews.ac.uk/ https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/biology/people/scv1/  

Applications are particularly welcome from people from Black, Asian and Minority Ethnic (BAME) backgrounds, and other protected characteristics who are under-represented in professional posts at the University.    

Equality, diversity and inclusion are at the heart of the St Andrews experience.  We strive to create a fair and inclusive culture demonstrated through our commitment to diversity awards (Athena Swan, Carer Positive, LGBT Charter and Race Charters). We celebrate diversity by promoting profiles of BAME, LGBTIQ+ staff and supporting networks including the Staff BAME Network; Staff with Disabilities Network; Staff LGBTIQ+ Network; and the Staff Parents & Carers Network.  Full details available online: https://www.st-andrews.ac.uk/hr/edi/  

In accordance with the new immigration rules, it is with regret that this role DOES NOT MEET THE CURRENT SUITABILITY REQUIREMENTS set by the UKVI to enable sponsorship of migrant workers.  While all applications received are assessed against the essential and desirable criteria listed in the further particulars, for this post the successful candidate must be able to demonstrate their right to work in the UK prior to commencing employment and obtain the right to work in the UK themselves without relying on University sponsorship.  Information on other visa options is available at https://www.gov.uk/check-uk-visa or by contacting our HR Immigration Team on hrimmigration@st-andrews.ac.uk.

Closing Date: 29 February 2024

Please quote ref: TG1268HM

Further Particulars: TG1268HM FPs.doc

School of Biology

Salary: £30,487 per annum pro rata

Start Date: As soon as possible

Fixed Term: 12 months with possibility of extension