We are seeking
for an enthusiastic Lab Technician with extensive experience in two main areas: (1) life cycle maintenance of schistosomes; (2) molecular biology and NGS library preparation. Responsibilities
1. Responsible for managing a scientific process and maintaining quality control
2. Process samples, monitor results to spot discrepancies and propose refinements and re-run experiments where necessary
3. Maintain databases, inventories, run reports and interpret results
4. Write up experimental results which would occasionally contribute to small sections (methodology, tables) of publications
5. Ensure the smooth day-to-day running of the laboratory, e.g. by maintaining the snail colony and Schistosoma life cycle in the lab, ensuring equipment is functioning and monitoring and ordering stock as necessary
6. Write and review basic operating procedures and risk assessments
7. Maintain equipment, including washing, sterilisation and disposal, perform quality checks and contribute to the general cleanliness and upkeep of the laboratory space
8. Assist with inductions and training of colleagues or students
9. Provide a point of reference for less experienced team members
10. Keep up to date with and advise on matters relating to Good Laboratory Practice (GLP), Health and Safety, COSHH sheets and other regulations relevant to the post.
About you
11. Experience of working laboratory environment
12. Experience working with parasitic flatworms of the class trematoda, snail husbandry and hazardous chemicals
13. Educated to at least A-level or equivalent qualification in science
14. Ability to troubleshoot problems with experiments and arrive at an appropriate solution
15. Strong attention to detail, with the ability to organise samples and record results in a clear and organised fashion
16. Ability to write up experimental results
17. IT skills including a knowledge of Word, Excel (i.e. data basing) and Powerpoint programs
18. Ability to organise own work load and take initiative as appropriate
19. Knowledge of health and safety regulations in a laboratory environment
20. A commitment to ensuring the Department/Faculty provides a positive, supportive and inclusive environment for all.
The University of Oxford is committed to equal opportunity, and to being a place where everyone belongs and is supported to succeed. We recognise how the diversity of our community enriches our ability to deliver on our academic mission. We welcome applications from individuals from all backgrounds, including those under-represented within higher education. No applicant or members of staff shall be unlawfully discriminated against on the basis of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation. This post is full time and available immediately. This is a fixed term role till 31 July 2026.