Overview
We are seeking an experienced Research Technician to join a multi-disciplinary research team at the University of Sheffield. This position is part of a high‑impact, international collaboration aimed at developing a pan‑viral prophylactic therapy against respiratory viral infections. The project focuses on priming broader antiviral immunity within the nasal epithelium to develop a durable, broad‑spectrum intervention against infection and transmission.
Main Duties And Responsibilities
* Work within a team to support laboratory work to achieve project milestones.
* Design and conduct experiments, including cell models, controlled viral infections, immunology and sequencing‑based assays.
* Learn new laboratory techniques where necessary.
* Use own technical expertise and knowledge to advise on experimental methods, techniques and troubleshooting.
* Analyse, record and interpret data to aid future experiment design.
* Prepare and present data at group and departmental scientific meetings.
* Work collaboratively with local and international team members to set up assays and ensure consistent laboratory practice between sites.
* Assist in day‑to‑day laboratory running: maintain stocks, purchase consumables and oversee equipment status as required.
* Support compliance with Health & Safety regulations, COSHH, Risk Assessments and Standard Operating Procedures.
* Read relevant literature and attend meetings to stay up to date with developments in the subject area.
* Carry out other duties, commensurate with the grade and remit of the post.
Person Specification
Our diverse community of staff and students recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds, and beliefs of all. We foster a culture where everyone feels they belong and is respected. Even if your past experience does not match perfectly with this role’s criteria, your contribution is valuable, and we encourage you to apply. Please ensure that you reference the application criteria in the application statement when you apply.
Criteria
* Essential: Hold a BSc (or equivalent) and have a portfolio of laboratory research experience.
* Essential: Strong background knowledge of immunology and/or virology.
* Essential: Experience of cell culture.
* Essential: Experience of working with RNA and/or DNA (e.g. PCR, library preparation).
* Essential: Ability to develop creative problem‑solving approaches and independently troubleshoot laboratory assays.
* Essential: Ability to work in a high‑pressure laboratory environment and complete tasks independently and in a timely manner.
* Essential: Effective communication skills, both written and verbal, report writing skills, and experience of delivering presentations.
* Essential: Ability to work effectively within a team.
* Essential: Ability to adhere to research protocols, maintain study deadlines and keep meticulous records of experiments undertaken.
* Essential: Excellent organisational skills and ability to plan and progress work activities.
* Essential: Experience of working with air‑liquid interface culture.
* Desirable: Experience of viral culture.
* Desirable: Experience of flow cytometry.
Further Information
* Grade: G5.1 – G5.5
* Salary: £27,319 – £30,378 per annum
* Work arrangement: Full‑time
* Duration: 01‑AUG‑2026 to 31‑JUL‑2030
* Line manager: Principal Investigator
* Direct reports: N/A
* Website: https://sheffield.ac.uk/smph/cirg
What We Offer
* A minimum of 38 days annual leave including bank holiday and closure days (pro‑rata) with the ability to purchase more.
* Flexible working opportunities, including hybrid working for some roles.
* Generous pension scheme.
* A wide range of discounts and rewards on shopping, eating out and travel.
* A variety of staff networks, providing opportunities for social interaction, peer support and personal development (for example, Race Equality, LGBT+, Women’s and Parent’s networks).
* Recognition Awards to reward staff who go above and beyond in their role.
* A commitment to your development: access to learning and mentoring schemes; integrated with our Professional Services Shared Skills Framework and Technical Career Route.
* A range of generous family‑friendly policies:
* Paid time off for parenting and caring emergencies.
* Access to menopause support in the workplace.
* Paid time off and support for fertility treatment.
* And more.
Disability Confident Leader
We are a Disability Confident Leader. If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria for this job you will be invited to take part in the next stage of the selection process.
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