Senior Research Analyst - LGC National Laboratories

The Molecular Biology team works on a range of national and international projects developing and applying high accuracy calibration and measurement services and best practice in support of LGC's role as the NML. In addition, the team undertakes contract research and development projects for a range of customers in both the public and private sectors. The team is equipped with a wide range of platforms for DNA analysis, including advanced sequencing and high accuracy PCR technologies. The NML has also just established a DNA synthesis capability to support activities in engineering biology and pandemic response. There is an exciting opportunity for candidates looking to develop their career in laboratory nucleic acid analysis to join the unique Molecular Biology team within the National Measurement Laboratory at LGC, based in Teddington/Guildford. You will join a team of scientists who deliver a diverse range of projects to support the delivery of experimental work across Molecular Biology Research Programme. The core focus of the role will require use of different molecular techniques to identify and quantify nucleic acids (DNA, RNA and their modifications) aimed at improving our understanding of molecular based measurements. This work aims to support our national and international stakeholders applying such techniques to a wide range sectors ranging from analytical microbiology (e.g. wastewater testing), food analysis (genetic modification), engineering biology (viral vectors) and human genetics (cancer diagnosis). Methods included in this work address analysis of DNA testing, determination of sequence identity, advanced sequencing and measurement services. Working on a range of projects managing and prioritising own day-to-day workload within a formal programme of projects to ensure tasks are completed to quality and time, this will include:

• Assisting with experimental design and method development.
• Delivery of a range of analytical work including:
• Sample preparations, nucleic acid extraction from multiple matrices.
• DNA quantification, dilution and experimental preparation
• PCR, real-time PCR, digital PCR
• Capillary Electrophoresis & sequencing
• Maintaining good records and laboratory notebooks of work carried out, including providing clear, understandable data.
• Data analysis and experimental documentation
• Contribute to the communication of findings (including publication and presentation of scientific developments and achievements).
Full training will be provided on instruments required for the delivery of the projects, as well as topics such as method validation and traceability of measurements and this role would aim to include the potential to take on more responsibility in the future.