<div><h3>Job Overview</h3><p>The role focuses on providing technical support and expertise in the application of Oxford Nanopore Technology to assess agricultural soil microbiomes. You will help devise, test and deliver protocols for in‑field DNA extraction and sequencing, collate data and support analysis, and assist in the delivery of knowledge exchange activities.</p><h3>Key Responsibilities</h3><ul><li>Provide general and specialist support for molecular laboratory and field‑based research activities.</li><li>Demonstrate techniques and equipment to colleagues and external stakeholders and provide training in their use.</li><li>Contribute to the development of new techniques and protocols in the area of research.</li><li>Support in‑field DNA extraction and sequencing, collate data and assist in data analysis.</li><li>Deliver knowledge‑exchange activities to stakeholders.</li><li>Maintain laboratory safety and good laboratory practice.</li></ul><h3>Working Conditions</h3><ul><li>Part‑time role of 22.2 hours per week on a fixed‑term basis for 9 months.</li><li>No working from home; on‑site duties only.</li><li>Current full driving licence (manual transmission) is essential; you will drive University of Plymouth vehicles.</li><li>Subject to health surveillance with our Occupational Health team.</li><li>Successful candidate may be required to obtain an ATAS Certificate prior to commencing research.</li></ul><h3>Required Qualifications and Experience</h3><ul><li>A degree or equivalent in a relevant subject area (a higher degree is desirable).</li><li>Professional experience working in a molecular biology laboratory and adherence to good laboratory practice.</li><li>Experience with sequencing technology.</li><li>Prior experience using Oxford Nanopore Technology is desirable.</li><li>Some experience of post‑sequencing bioinformatics and data processing.</li></ul><h3>Disability Confident Employer Statement</h3><p>We are a Disability Confident employer and will normally offer an interview to any applicant that declares a disability and meets the minimum criteria for the job as defined by the employer. In certain high‑volume recruitment situations, the employer may wish to limit the overall numbers of interviews offered to both disabled and non‑disabled applicants. For more details please see the full policy.</p><h3>Benefits</h3><ul><li>Generous annual leave: 25 days pro‑rated if part‑time, plus Bank Holidays & Closure Days.</li><li>Generous pension scheme.</li><li>Cycle to Work & Electric Car Scheme.</li><li>Employee Assistance Programme.</li><li>Development opportunities.</li><li>Enhanced family leave.</li><li>Flexible working.</li><li>Retailer discounts.</li><li>On‑site nursery.</li><li>Pro‑rated payment for part‑time working hours.</li></ul><h3>Equal Opportunities</h3><p>Equality, diversity and inclusion are core values of the University of Plymouth. We provide equal opportunities to all staff and applicants irrespective of gender, disability, race, religion, sexual orientation and other characteristics covered by the Equality Act.</p></div>