Research Assistant – Norwich, Norfolk

Research Assistant

Norwich, Norfolk

Apply

Main Purpose of the Job

Applications are invited for a Research Assistant to join the Laboratory of Dr Macaulay in the Engineering Biology Programme at the Earlham Institute, based in Norwich, UK.

This role involves the provision of support for projects using single-cell genomics at the Earlham Institute. The successful applicant will work closely with single-cell group members and platform users to generate sequencing libraries from single-cells, using either 10X Genomics or plate based approaches (e.g. Smart-seq2, G&T-seq) for projects both within the institute but also with external collaborators.

Working within our single-cell genomics group, the post holder will liaise with our Cellular Genomics platform manager and Genomics Pipelines teams to bring projects from cell isolation through to sequencing and analysis. They will also be involved in the development and application of new technologies relating to single-cell genomics, including spatial transcriptomics and alternative high-throughput single-cell analyses.

Key Relationships

Line Manager and co-signatory; research teams of line manager and co-signatory; members of EI Cellgen CSP project team; EI operations staff; EI directorate. Internal and external collaborators; Industrial and Commercial partners. Customers of EI single-cell pipelines.

Main Activities & Responsibilities

Percentage
Undertake single-cell library preparation protocols including 10X Genomics, Smart-seq2, Nextera XT, G&T-seq etc. to support the delivery of internal and external projects
60
Liaise with our cellular genomics platform manager and genomics pipelines teams to coordinate delivery of projects in a timely manner
10
Contribute to the development of new protocols and capabilities in single-cell analysis at EI
10
Provide mentoring and training to other lab/institute staff and students and on occasion visiting workers
10
Engage in the organisation of formal training events delivered at EI or elsewhere
5
Communicate research outcomes through paper writing, presentation at conferences, collaborator visits and public engagement
5
As agreed with line manager, any other duties commensurate with the nature of the role

Education & Qualifications

Requirement
Importance
Postgraduate degree (or equivalent experience) in molecular biology, cell biology or similar
Essential
Postgraduate degree and significant experience in cell biology and genomics
Desirable

Specialist Knowledge & Skills

Requirement
Importance
Demonstrable knowledge of single-cell genomic approaches
Essential
Skilled in molecular biology for method development and application
Essential
Familiar with laboratory automation and its application to single-cell analysis
Essential
Familiar with tissue culture, tissue preparation and cell sorting, and willing to engage with these activities
Essential

Relevant Experience

Requirement
Importance
Demonstrable experience of sequencing library generate and optimisation of related protocols
Essential
Experience of 10X genomics, Smart-seq2 or other single-cell library preparation protocols
Essential
Experience working with external collaborators to deliver results and troubleshoot challenging protocols
Essential
Experience training others in single-cell genomics or supporting immersive collaborator visits
Desirable

Interpersonal & Communication Skills

Requirement
Importance
Excellent communication skills and ability to troubleshoot complex molecular biology protocols
Essential
Good interpersonal skills, with the ability to work well as part of a team
Essential
Ability to follow instructions/Standard Operating Procedures
Essential
Promotes and strives for continuous improvement
Essential
Demonstrated ability to work independently, using initiative and applying problem solving skills
Essential

Additional Requirements

Requirement
Importance
Attention to detail
Essential
Promotes equality and values diversity
Essential
Willingness to embrace the expected values and behaviours of all staff at the Institute, ensuring it is a great place to work
Essential
Able to present a positive image of self and the Institute, promoting both the international reputation and public engagement aims of the Institute
Essential
Willingness to work outside standard working hours when required
Essential

Apply

View All Jobs