Molecular Microbiology Technician

Salary - £28,125 to £29,636 Depending on experience
1 Year Fixed Term Contract, ideally starting in August 2023
Fully site or field based
We reserve the right to close this advert if we find the right candidate, so we encourage you to apply early. UKCEH is looking for a Molecular Microbiology Technician to join our 600-strong team, contributing to scientific discovery and generating the data, insights and solutions that researchers, businesses and governments need to solve complex environmental challenges. Working at UKCEH is rewarding. Our science makes a real difference, enabling people and the environment to prosper, and enriching society. We are the custodians of a wealth of environmental data, collected by UKCEH and its predecessors over the course of more than 60 years. As a valued member of our team, you’ll get:

• 27 days annual leave, rising to 29 days after five years
• 10% employer pension contribution
• Enhanced maternity and paternity leave
• 24 hour, 365-day access to support with physical, mental, social, health or financial issues
• Flexible working opportunities
• And much more.

You’ll be joining our acclaimed Pollution science area, to provide laboratory and field support for various molecular microbiology projects, including a project funded by the Welsh Government on the effects of raw sewage discharges on environmental antimicrobial resistance in downstream river environments. You’ll be trained by experienced staff in our molecular microbiology techniques. You’ll be joining a leading independent, not-for-profit research institute that’s committed to recruiting talented people like you, progressing your career and giving you the support you need to thrive at UKCEH. Your main responsibilities will include:

• Preparation of sampling equipment
• Laboratory sample processing - sample weighing, DNA extraction and assisting with qPCR and metagenomic sequencing preparation
• Dissemination of information and results (report writing for stakeholders/funders and academic publications)
• Supporting project lead with stakeholder engagement
• Opportunity to assist with Fieldwork - taking sediment and water samples in Welsh rivers

For the role of Molecular Microbiology Technician, we’re looking for somebody who:

• Has a BSc (first class or 2:1), MSc or equivalent in microbiology, environmental sciences, molecular biology or similar
• Has laboratory experience, is organised and has an understanding of sample management
• Demonstrates good interpersonal and time management skills and adaptability to changing priorities
• Can demonstrate an interest in environmental research, pollution and antimicrobial resistance

Desirable

• Experience in molecular laboratory techniques (e.g., DNA extraction and quantitative PCR)
• Is comfortable working in the field - including wading in rivers and exposure to wastewater/contaminated water
• Has a full UK driving licence – please confirm in your CV

If we’ve just described you, we’d love to meet. Apply now.