Research Assistant

1 week ago

Harwell, Oxfordshire, United Kingdom MRC Harwell Full time
Previous experience of relevant techniques will be an advantage, but is not essential as training can be provided.

Main duties / key responsibilities:

  • Characterisation and quality control of genetically modified materials, employing PCRbased techniques. Genotyping. Sample management and communication of results.
  • Other general duties required are to ensure the smooth running of a Molecular Biology laboratory e.g. ordering reagents tasks shared with the rest of the team.

Working relationships:

  • Process samples/tasks by working as a team with the other Molecular and Cellular Biology (MCB) team members, as directed by the Deputy Head of MCB initially or by the Head of the Genotyping Team as per workload demands
  • Work with scientists in the various research groups, to help process samples as efficiently as possible

Additional information:

  • Some flexible work patterns and paid weekend work may be required at the discretion of the supervisor
  • Interviews are expected to be held on 27th April and the morning of 28th April.

Equality & Diversity:


The MRC values the diverse skills and experience of its employees and is committed to achieving equality of treatment for all.

Our objectives are that all individuals shall have equal opportunities for employment and advancement on the basis of their skills, aptitudes and abilities.

The MRC is committed to the engagement and retention of the best possible talent and to creating an environment that encourages excellence in scientific research through good equality and diversity leadership and management.


Corporate/Local Responsibilities & Requirements:

The post-holder must at all times carry out their responsibilities with due regard to the MRC's:

  • Code of Conduct
  • Equality and Diversity policy
  • Health and Safety policy
  • Data Protection and Security policy
Job descriptions should be reviewed on a regular basis and at the annual appraisal. Any changes should be made and agreed between the post-holder and their manager.


The above lists are not exhaustive and the post-holder is required to undertake such duties as may reasonably be requested within the scope of the post.

All employees are required to act professionally, cooperatively and flexibly in line with the requirements of the post and the MRC.


  • Person Specification
    Education/Qualifications/Training Required:
  • Essential:_
  • Desirable:_
  • MSc in Biological Sciences with several years' laboratorybased molecular biology training. Understanding of genome engineering techniques (gene targeting, CRISPRbased tools)

Previous Work Experience Required:

  • Essential:_
  • Experience of working in a laboratory.
  • Desirable:_
  • Previous work with genetically modified materials.
  • Previous experience in qPCR, ddPCR or Nanopore sequencing. Evidence of quality and customerfocused work.

Knowledge and Experience:

  • Essential:_
  • Experience in basic techniques of molecular biology; e.g., PCR, cloning, DNA sequence analysis, Southern blotting.
  • Computer literacy is essential for the recording and communication of results.
  • An understanding of genetic modification in laboratory animals.
  • Desirable:_
  • Previous experience with RNA.
  • Experience of working in sterile conditions.
  • Working and adhering to standard operating procedures and experience of process analysis and refinement.

Personal skills/Behaviours/Qualities:

  • Essential:_
  • Organised and hardworking with precision and a strong eye for detail, and able to work well as part of a team.
  • Desirable:_
  • Able to communicate clearly and concisely with a variety of scientists at all levels (from principal investigator to research assistants and animal technicians).
  • Further InformationThe postholder will be required to have the appropriate level of security screening/vetting required for the role. UKRI reserves the right to run or rerun security clearance as required during the course of employment.

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