Senior Research Technician - Department of Cancer and Genomic Sciences - 106453 - Grade 5
Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK. Full Time, Fixed Term contract up to September 2028. Closing date: 28 October 2025.
Full time starting salary is normally in the range £29,647 to £31,460, with potential progression to £35,388. Grade: 5.
Department: Cancer and Genomic Sciences, School of Medical Sciences, College of Medicine and Health.
Overview
This full-time position supports the research work of Professor Aga Gambus and Dr Marco Saponara. The post is funded by BBSRC for 3 years and involves work on the activity of UHRF1 protein in chromatin replication, primarily during Okazaki fragments maturation, using Xenopus laevis egg extract. The post holder may be required to obtain a personal home office license for work with amphibians.
Role Summary
Provide technical expertise, support and guidance in research support. You may supervise technical staff or act as a role model and coach others. You will apply in-depth knowledge of techniques and experimental protocols, advise on procedures, diagnose and resolve problems, and proactively suggest improvements. Some work may occur outside normal hours to accommodate experiments. There may be opportunities to work in different Institute or College areas to flex resources.
Main Duties
* Provide support for research using a variety of techniques, including protein purification (from E. coli and insect cells).
* Protein biochemistry including ubiquitylation and replication reactions in Xenopus laevis egg extract.
* Prepare Xenopus laevis egg extracts and perform radioactive assays using 32P.
* Perform basic molecular biology techniques: Western blotting, DNA cloning, gel electrophoresis.
* Write and update SOPs; data handling and management.
* Advise researchers and students on techniques and experimental procedures.
* Work to PI deadlines and deliver consistent results; communicate results to colleagues.
* Assist in managing the experimental laboratories and maintain accurate records of techniques and experiments.
* Ensure compliance with relevant legislation and promote proper lab procedures, including waste disposal and labelling.
* Contribute to internal and external audits and regulatory inspections as required.
Health and Safety
* Proactive health and safety support in the laboratory; comply with current rules and ensure assessments are up to date.
* Understand safety aspects of equipment operation; train staff on correct usage; ensure regular maintenance and keep records.
* Report breaches or non-compliance; uphold waste disposal streams in line with policy; may undertake First Aider or Fire Warden training.
General Administration
* Maintain accurate records; manage stocks and procurement; receive and store consumables/equipment appropriately.
* Ensure facilities are clean, safe and well-maintained; keep inventories and calibration up to date.
* Support carbon reduction and energy-saving measures where applicable.
Other Duties
* Participate in training and mentoring for junior staff; support equality and diversity; perform any other duties as reasonably required.
Required Knowledge, Skills, Qualifications, Experience
* In-depth practical knowledge of the technical and scientific methods listed above.
* Extensive proven experience in laboratory work and familiarity with a wide range of equipment.
* Relevant workplace experience or a degree in an appropriate subject (or equivalent qualification).
* GCSE level 2 (A*-C) in mathematics and English or equivalent.
* Positive service attitude, ability to organise and manage own workload, and flexibility in work practices.
* Ability to work under minimal supervision and as part of a team; knowledge of current legislation relevant to the role.
* Understanding of Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986; knowledge of H&S policies; understanding of the Human Tissue Act and GLP standards.
* Proficiency in commonly used software packages; commitment to equality and diversity.
Additional Information
* Dimensions: provide specialist expertise; may supervise staff and assist in budget monitoring.
* Planning and Organisation: work independently on daily, weekly, and monthly tasks; plan ahead and procure resources as needed.
* Problem Solving: adapt protocols as needed; uphold Health and Safety procedures; work with autonomy under supervision as appropriate.
* Internal and External Relationships: advise and support research staff and students; liaise with external contacts as needed.
* Informal enquiries: Carol Benham, c.a.benham@bham.ac.uk.
We emphasise our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion and sustainability in line with the University’s accreditations and policies.
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