Full-Time, Fixed-term appointment to 31st December 2029

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a Research Assistant to join the Functional Genetics Group, led by Professor Tony Nolan. The successful post holder will contribute to an innovative research programme in collaboration with the Target Malaria research consortium. The project focuses on developing and evaluating genetic approaches, including gene drive, for malaria control.

Our group has made significant progress in applying transgenesis and genome-editing approaches to Anopheles funestus, an important malaria vector. In collaboration with Target Malaria, we aim to build on this work towards developing effective gene drive approaches in this species. You will work alongside the Post Doctoral Research Associate, contributing to experimental design, data collection and analysis, and preparation of scientific manuscripts.

We are seeking an enthusiastic candidate with an interest in molecular biology, genome editing, vector biology and/or vector control. This is an excellent opportunity to contribute to innovative research addressing a major global health challenge.

Key responsibilities will include:

Molecular biology support

• Provide molecular biology support, including molecular genotyping and basic cloning, to senior researchers
• Assist in the design of genetic constructs for the generation of transgenic lines
• Follow standard molecular biology protocols (DNA/RNA extractions, PCR and qPCR)
• Design and execute plasmid cloning and screening procedures
• Perform basic bioinformatic analysis and plasmid and primer design
• Assist in the design of guide RNAs for CRISPR-based genome editing

Mosquito husbandry

• Maintain a range of mosquito lines, ensuring steady supply of mosquitoes for experiments
• Contribute to general maintenance and production of mosquitoes in the insectary, across a range of species and genetic backgrounds
• Conduct and assist in the design of phenotypic assays of genetically edited mosquitoes
• Inject mosquito embryos with DNA constructs
• Analyse offspring of CRISPR-injected mosquitoes to identify genome editing or transgenesis events

Data recording, presentation and analysis

• Collate and analyse data using excel, prism, R or other appropriate software
• Prepare written data reports and PowerPoint presentations
• Present results from experiments to update the research team and wider research group on progress and findings
• Provide initial analysis of data and draft sections of reports and manuscripts for funders, external collaborators and journal submissions under guidance of line manager

Research group support

• Develop standard operating procedures and risk assessments
• Ensure laboratory space is kept clean, safe and well supplied
• Organise and maintain lab reagents
• Assist with supervision of students and visitors to the lab
• Assist with the planning and organisation of resources for the smooth running of the laboratory, including overseeing the ordering of apparatus, equipment components and materials.

Ideally you will demonstrate:

• BSc in Biological Science or science related subject (or equivalent experience)
• MRes or MSc in Biological Science or science related subject (desirable)
• Familiarity with the general theory of genetic control approaches, including gene drive, for population control of insects
• Experience of working within a research laboratory, to collect data following standard laboratory protocols
• Hands on experience of molecular biology
• Experience of DNA cloning techniques
• Experience of collecting and maintaining laboratory data
• Experience of genetic manipulation of insects (desirable)

(For a full list of essential and desirable criteria please refer to the job description and person specification)

Additional benefits of joining LSTM:

• Access to support for your career growth through a variety of internal and external learning and development opportunities
• Employee Assistance Platform offering a range of wellbeing initiatives and support, in addition to high-street discount offers
• 30 days annual leave, plus 8 UK bank holidays, in addition to 6 Christmas closure days
• Generous occupational pension schemes including USS (Universities Superannuation Scheme) and NHS pension schemes (subject to eligibility)
• Government backed “cycle to work” scheme
• Affiliated, discounted staff membership to the University of Liverpool Sports Centre
• A range of enhanced family friendly policies

Application Process: To apply for this position please follow the apply link and upload your CV, complete our application form and attach a covering letter outlining your interest in the post, and how your skills and experience align.

Due to the volume of applications we receive, we may sometimes close our vacancies early. It is therefore advisable to apply as early as possible if you would like to be considered for a role.

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