Senior Research Technician (112556)

About the Role

We are looking for a Senior Research Technician to join and help shape a new new research team studying plant cell biology.

Our projects focus on the fundamental processes that allow plant cells to perceive and respond to their environment, and how these differ across other eukaryotes, including marine algae (diatoms). This will provide novel insights into plant-environment interaction and into the evolution of fundamental cell biology processes across the tree of life.

You will carry out experiments that directly contribute to the group’s research outputs and help keep the lab running smoothly. This includes:

• Generating and characterising novel transgenic plant lines, and looking after the lab’s plants and diatom cultures
• Keeping stocks, inventories and equipment organised so the whole group can work efficiently
• Supporting and teaching colleagues and students, sharing your knowledge and skills
• Developing new skills, with technical training and career mentoring provided

Any requests for further information about the role can be directed to Alex Johnson (alex.j.johnson@warwick.ac.uk).

For details on the experience and skills required, please refer to the job description (link here).

About You

We are looking for someone with hands-on experience of growing and maintaining plants in a laboratory, greenhouse or other controlled environment. You should be able to show that you can:

• Keep plants or cell cultures healthy on a routine basis, keeping accurate records
• Work independently on routine tasks, and keep stocks, inventories and your own workload organised
• Work well in a team, sharing your knowledge and skills with colleagues and students

Experience of molecular biology (for example, cloning, PCR and genotyping), plant transformation, cell culture or microscopy would be an advantage, but full training will be provided. Most importantly, we are looking for someone who is curious about the science and keen to develop their own expertise over the course of the role.

About the Department

About the group

You will join the Johnson group in the School of Life Sciences at the University of Warwick. You will work closely with the group leader and fellow researchers, with regular opportunities to present your work. The group shares lab space with the groups of Dr Joe McKenna, Professor Murray Grant and Professor Richard Napier, and we frequently share resources and expertise, creating a supportive laboratory environment.

The laboratory is on the Gibbet Hill campus. It has been involved in many recent upgrades to microscopy infrastructure, and we can provide training in these techniques where it fits with project objectives and your career development. Warwick is a major centre for plant science and cell biology, with extensive opportunities for collaboration, professional development and attending international conferences.

We and the wider University of Warwick environment offer substantial opportunities for professional development, including regular opportunities to attend international conferences.

Hybrid Working

Please note this is an on-campus based role due to the nature of the work, therefore we cannot accommodate any work from home basis

School of Life Sciences

For further information about the School of Life Sciences please see our website.

We believe that collegiality, openness, inclusivity and diversity are essential for an excellent research and teaching environment. Our workplace ethic has enabled us to gain the Athena SWAN Silver award. We are dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive workplace and encourage applications from all groups with protected characteristics traditionally under-represented in STEM fields. As part of our ongoing commitment to addressing gender equality under the Athena Swan chartermark, we would particularly encourage and welcome applications from female academics.

How to Apply

To apply please complete your essential personal details and attach a CV and cover letter on the closing date stated.

We will review applications throughout the advertising period and may contact shortlisted candidates before the closing date. We therefore encourage interested applicants to submit their application as early as possible. We reserve the right to close this vacancy early should we receive a sufficient number of suitable applications

Please ensure your CV includes your most recent employment experience along with any additional relevant experience and education history.

Your cover letter should detail your motivation for applying for the role as well as detailing how you meet the essential and desirable criteria.   

The interviews will be held: To Be Confirmed

In your application, you can also include any career breaks you may have taken (e.g. parental/caring/long-term sick leave, part-time work, secondments) or any periods where you were unable or restricted to work because of the COVID-19 pandemic.