Overall Purpose:
The Mary Lyon Centre at the Medical Research Council Harwell requires two Research Assistants to provide technical support in a busy Genome Engineering service team. The successful candidate will work within the Molecular and Cellular Biology (MCB) group and in close collaboration with the Genotyping core facility. The successful candidate’s activity will span a broad range of molecular biology techniques.
The available post is based within established laboratories involved in the generation and quality control of mouse targeted alleles and genotyping. The laboratories use a range of molecular biology techniques including generation of CRISPR reagents, PCR, Sanger sequencing analysis, digital droplet PCR (ddPCR), non-radioactive Southern blotting, qPCR-based genotyping and embryonic stem (ES) cell culture. Among this range of techniques, the post holder will focus in particular on employing sequencing and ddPCR for validation of new alleles generated by the service. They also may be required to apply other molecular techniques in support of the genome engineering activity.
Previous experience of relevant techniques will be an advantage, but is not essential as training can be provided.
Main Duties/Key Responsibilities:
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Characterisation and quality control of genetically modified materials employing PCR-based techniques. Genotyping. Sample management and communication of results.
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Other general duties required are to ensure the smooth running of a Molecular Biology laboratory e.g. ordering reagents – tasks shared with rest of team.
Working relationships:
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Process samples/tasks by working as a team with the other Molecular and Cellular Biology (MCB) team members, as directed by the Deputy Head of MCB initially or by the Head of the Genotyping Team as per workload demands.
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Work with scientists in the various research groups, to help process samples as efficiently as possible
Additional information:
Some flexible work patterns and paid weekend work may be required at the discretion of the supervisor.
Interviews expected March 9th and 10th.
Equality & Diversity:
The MRC values the diverse skills and experience of its employees and is committed to achieving equality of treatment for all. Our objectives are that all individuals shall have equal opportunities for employment and advancement on the basis of their skills, aptitudes and abilities. The MRC is committed to the engagement and retention of the best possible talent and to creating an environment that encourages excellence in scientific research through good equality and diversity leadership and management.
Corporate/Local Responsibilities & Requirements:
The post-holder must at all times carry out their responsibilities with due regard to the MRC’s:
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Code of Conduct
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Equality and Diversity policy
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Health and Safety policy
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Data Protection and Security policy
Job descriptions should be reviewed on a regular basis and at the annual appraisal. Any changes should be made and agreed between the post-holder and their manager.
The above lists are not exhaustive and the post-holder is required to undertake such duties as may reasonably be requested within the scope of the post. All employees are required to act professionally, cooperatively and flexibly in line with the requirements of the post and the MRC.