Senior Research Technician – Department of Microbes, Infection and Microbiomes
University of Birmingham – Grade 5 – Fixed term contract up to January 2029 – Closing date: 5 November 2025
Position Details
* Department of Microbes, Infection and Microbiomes, School of Infection, Inflammation and Immunology, College of Medicine and Health
* Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham, UK
* Full time – Starting salary £29,647 to £31,460, potential progression to £35,388
Background
Post within the research lab of Dr. Michelle Buckner, funded by the BBSRC. Project explores impact of biofilm growth on plasmid‑mediated antimicrobial resistance and hyper‑virulence. Experience with bacteriology essential, especially sterile culture, cloning, classical microbiological assays, antimicrobial susceptibility and plasmid conjugation. Molecular biology skills (PCR QPCR, flow cytometry, biofilm growth, bacterial evolution) beneficial.
Role Summary
* Provide technical expertise and research support.
* Act as role model and coach as appropriate.
* Use in‑depth knowledge to advise, diagnose, resolve problems and suggest solutions.
* Flexible working hours to accommodate experimental procedures.
* Opportunities to work in different areas of the department or wider university.
Main Duties
* Cloning of bacterial genes, flow cytometry, PCR and QPCR, sterile bacterial culturing, conjugation assays, antimicrobial susceptibility testing, bacterial growth assays, long‑term bacterial evolution experiments.
* Assist in managing experimental laboratories and maintain accurate records.
* Advise on techniques and experimental procedures, diagnose and resolve problems.
* Carry out specialist technical procedures, assess correct technique and propose improvements.
* Maintain accurate records of all techniques and procedures.
* Ensure compliance with relevant legislation and operating procedures.
* Contribute to internal and external audit procedures and regulatory inspections.
Health and Safety Duties
* Proactive support for laboratory health and safety.
* Operate equipment safely and train staff on correct usage.
* Maintain maintenance records and report breaches.
* Uphold correct waste disposal stream as governed by College and local policy.
* Potentially undertake training as a First Aider or Fire Warden.
General Administration and Organisation
* Keep records accurate and up to date.
* Maintain consumables stocks, generate purchase orders using University systems.
* Receipt, correct storage of consumables/equipment and chemical reagents.
* Maintain facility in clean, functional, safe condition.
* Keep PAT testing, calibration and equipment inventories up to date.
* Implement carbon reduction and energy saving measures.
Other Duties
* Active role in training and mentoring junior staff.
* Support equality and values diversity, moderating own behaviour.
* Any other duties as reasonably required.
Required Knowledge, Skills, Qualifications, Experience
* Extensive experience in bacterial culture assessment, cloning, antimicrobial susceptibility.
* Equivalently professional qualification or degree in an appropriate subject.
* GCSE level 2 (A*-C) or equivalent in maths and English.
* In‑depth practical knowledge of relevant methods.
* Experience of similar laboratory work and familiarity with laboratory equipment.
* Courtesy in dealing with others.
* Organise own workload and demonstrate flexibility.
* Work under minimal supervision but function as part of a team.
* Knowledge of current legislation and H&S policies.
* Proficiency in commonly used software packages.
* Understands importance of equality and diversity.
* Identify and respond to equality and diversity issues in line with policies.
Dimensions, Planning, Problem Solving, Internal Relationships
Provided specialist expertise, supervise staff, budget monitoring. Work independently on daily, weekly and monthly tasks and medium‑long term projects, plan and procure resources, research, modify protocols, uphold H&S, advise and support research staff and external contacts.
Eligibility and Safeguarding
Safeguarding and safe recruitment practice. Pre‑employment checks and satisfactory Occupational Health clearance required.
Further Particulars and Contact
Informal enquiries to Michelle Buckner, email: m.buckner@bham.ac.uk.
Equality, Diversity, Inclusion
University commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, sustainability. Athena SWAN, Race Equality Charter, Disability Confident accreditations. Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Centre. Sustainability strategy.
Site Link
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