Research Technician - Department of Cancer and Genomic Sciences - 105039 - Grade 4

We are looking to recruit a Research Technician to work within the Beggs group (led by Prof Andrew Beggs). The group has wide ranging research interests and is a fast-paced multidisciplinary laboratory, whose primary focus is molecular genetics and Pre-Clinical models of disease, especially cancer. The laboratory has both research and service departments employing a wide variety of state-of-the-art techniques. We are looking for an experienced research technician who can provide support as required for the day to day running of the laboratory Role Summary You will provide daily support tasks for the group. You will provide technical support for research activities as required, utilising your technical skills and a wide range of techniques. You may occasionally be required to be flexible in your working pattern. You will also be expected to ensure your working area is safe and support others in following health and safety instructions. In order to flexibly use resource you may be given the opportunity to work in different areas of the department or wider University. Main Duties

• Provide support to Beggs group and Genomics Birmingham Service including ordering, sample processing, cleaning and general housekeeping duties.
• Support the day to day running of the laboratory including collecting orders and co-ordinating deliveries to staff members.
• Performing all monitoring and maintenance duties as required.
• Assist with the cataloguing and organisation of freezer storage, including use of laboratory information and management systems (LIMS).
• Cleaning of Class II hoods which are used for sterile culture and biological sample processing.
• Cleaning and maintenance of equipment as required.
• Disposal of all laboratory waste in accordance with University policy.
• You will be expected to resolve problems in your area of expertise but also to recognise when problems need to be referred to more senior staff.
• You will need to maintain accurate records of monitoring and housekeeping tasks.
• You will need to maintain accurate records of all ordering for both the group and individual staff members.
• Comply with any legislation relevant to the area of research/activity.
• Comply with the Standard Operating Procedures for the activity.
• Demonstrate techniques to other staff and/or students on the area of expertise as required.
• You will contribute to internal and external audit procedures and to regulatory inspections., You will deliver a level of service as agreed, carrying out daily research support as required. You will be expected to assist in analysis and interpretation of research results.
Internal and External relationships This role is primarily concerned with advising and supporting research staff. Further particulars can be found Informal enquiries to Dr Jo Stockton, email: We believe there is no such thing as a 'typical' member of University of Birmingham staff and that diversity in its many forms is a strength that underpins the exchange of ideas, innovation and debate at the heart of University life. We are committed to proactively addressing the barriers experienced by some groups in our community and are proud to hold Athena SWAN, Race Equality Charter and Disability Confident accreditations. We have an Equality Diversity and Inclusion Centre that focuses on continuously improving the University as a fair and inclusive place to work where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. We are also committed to sustainability, which is a key part of our strategy. You can find out more about our work to create a fairer university for everyone .


• NVQ, BTEC/ONC at level three or equivalent level three qualification and specific relevant experience in an appropriate subject.
• GCSE level 2 (A- C/4-9) or equivalent level 2 qualification in mathematics and English.
• A good working knowledge, plus practical experience, of Good Laboratory Practice is desirable.
• Experience of working in a laboratory based research environment is desirable.
• Ability to organise and manage own workload after consultation with manager.
• Familiarity with the use of a wide range of general laboratory equipment e.g. balances, pH meters, autoclaves, glass washing machines, microscopes.
• Proactive approach to Health and Safety matters, together with the communication skills to interact with a range of people, including students.
• Ability to be flexible to meet deadlines.
• The post-holder will be fully familiar with the safe handling and storage of laboratory materials.
• Good IT skills, having a familiarity with both Windows and/or Apple Macintosh OS will be advantageous.
• Understands the importance of equality and diversity in the workplace.
• Ability to identify and respond to equality and diversity issues in line with relevant policies and procedures.
Dimensions You will have no direct line management responsibility (other than occasional instructions to other staff) and no budget to manage. Planning and Organising You will be able to schedule and organise your own work within the priorities and requirements for the area. Problem Solving and decision making