REQUIREMENTS

• Qualifications: Bachelor of Science degree in Health Sciences or a related biological field, such as Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Physiology or Genetics.

• 1 to 2 years’ experience in working in a laboratory

• Knowledge of the use of chemical substances, radioactivity and safe laboratory practice, and knowledge of health and safety regulations.

• Self-starter with excellent time management skills and ability to take initiative.

• Good communication & training skills.

• Ability to organise own work-load under the direction of the Head of Research & Laboratories and/or the Laboratory Manager.

• Ability to work as an individual and part of a team.

• Adaptability, high degree of technical competence, ability to multi-task to meet all research needs.

• Operation of specialised equipment, requiring specialist training.

• Computer literacy.

MAIN DUTIES

• Support the Laboratory Manager in the running of the main general laboratory, including molecular biology laboratory and tissue culture areas.

• Together with the Head of Research & Laboratories and the rest of the research team, taking responsibility for laboratory stocks of reagents and consumables, including preparation of pipette tips and microfuge tubes for autoclaving and preparation of standard buffers and solutions, including decontaminants, and preparation of other reagents as required.

• Preparation and/or processing of samples and accompanying paperwork for export and import of biological material to and from other laboratories, respectively, in accordance with regulations.

• Ensure general laboratory and safety compliance under the direction of the Laboratory Manager. Ensure bench tidiness and cleanliness of laboratory areas, including the correct disposal of liquid- and solid chemicals, biohazard materials, radioactive substances and sharps.

• Closely monitor the storage of samples and keep an updated log of which samples are stored where and number/type of sample aliquots available (freezers/fridges).

• Monitoring the satisfactory operation of laboratory equipment and scheduling maintenance/servicing if appropriate.

• Initiating purchase orders in compliance with group ordering procedures.

• Under the direction of academic staff, provide assistance and training of other academic, technical and research staff and students on specific experimental techniques and in the use of specialised laboratory equipment.

• Assist the Laboratory Manager in the drafting of standard operating procedures (SOPs).

• Carry out any additional duties as required by the Head of Research & Laboratories and/or the laboratory manager.