Molecular Ecology Technician

at  Centre for Ecology Hydrology

Salary - £29,733 to £31,553
Fully site based
Permanent and Full-Time (37 hours per week)
Part-Time will be considered (needs to be a minimum of 29.6 hours – equivalent to 4 full days) some flexibility with start and end times can be accommodated.
We are shortlisting as we go for this role and reserve the right to close this advert if we find the right candidate, so we encourage you to apply early.
UKCEH is looking for a Molecular Ecology Technician to join our 600-strong team, contributing to scientific discovery and generating the data, insights, and solutions that researchers, businesses and governments need to solve complex environmental challenges.
Working at UKCEH is rewarding. Our science makes a real difference, enabling people and the environment to prosper, and enriching society. We are the custodians of a wealth of environmental data, collected by UKCEH and its predecessors over the course of more than 60 years.

As a valued member of our team, you’ll get:

• 27 days annual leave, rising to 29 days after five years
• 10% employer pension contribution
• Enhanced maternity and paternity leave (subject to qualifying requirements)
• 24 hour, 365-day access to support with physical, mental, social, health or financial issues plus access to our trained Welfare Officers
• Flexible working opportunities

..
We have a great opportunity for a Molecular Ecology Technician to join the Molecular Ecology research group. This is an entry-level position, where training will be provided in molecular biology skills, such as sample processing, DNA extraction, polymerase chain reaction (PCR), gel electrophoresis, high throughput sequencing and data analysis.
You’ll be providing laboratory support for key molecular ecology projects, including the
UK National Honey Monitoring Scheme
and

PACIFIC

. You’ll be joining a small and ambitious team, dedicated to science with impact.
You’ll be joining a leading independent, not-for-profit research institute that’s committed to recruiting talented people like you, progressing your career, and giving you the support you need to thrive at UKCEH.

Your main responsibilities will include:

• Sample processing and analysis, including measurement of sugar and water concentrations, pollen grain isolation, sample pack generation, precise weight measurement and DNA extraction
• Liaising with key stakeholders, aiding the dissemination of information and results
• Assisting with other project laboratory routine work, i.e., weighing samples and sorting soil and other biological samples
• Assisting the team with project management tasks

For the role of Molecular Ecology Technician, we’re looking for somebody who has:

• A good degree (2:2 or higher) in a biology-related subject, or M.Sc. in molecular biology, ecology, zoology or similar
• The ability to work diligently to meet expected standards, methodically, and apply quality control and quality assurance procedures, with an understanding of sample management
• The ability to be flexible and adaptable, willing to learn new skills for different types of work when there are development opportunities
• Demonstrable technical aptitude combined with a responsible, positive attitude
• The ability to show initiative and creativity to resolve technical issues, problem-solving and development of your own ideas
• Experience with citizen science projects
• Fieldwork and/or sample handling
• Good skills using Microsoft 365
• Good interpersonal skills, able to work well as a team, as well as independently, with a collaborative and inclusive approach

If we’ve just described you, we’d love to meet. Apply now.
We welcome applications from international candidates; however, at present, we are unable to provide visa sponsorship for this role.

Your main responsibilities will include:

• Sample processing and analysis, including measurement of sugar and water concentrations, pollen grain isolation, sample pack generation, precise weight measurement and DNA extraction
• Liaising with key stakeholders, aiding the dissemination of information and results
• Assisting with other project laboratory routine work, i.e., weighing samples and sorting soil and other biological samples
• Assisting the team with project management task

For the role of Molecular Ecology Technician, we’re looking for somebody who has:

• A good degree (2:2 or higher) in a biology-related subject, or M.Sc. in molecular biology, ecology, zoology or similar
• The ability to work diligently to meet expected standards, methodically, and apply quality control and quality assurance procedures, with an understanding of sample management
• The ability to be flexible and adaptable, willing to learn new skills for different types of work when there are development opportunities
• Demonstrable technical aptitude combined with a responsible, positive attitude
• The ability to show initiative and creativity to resolve technical issues, problem-solving and development of your own ideas
• Experience with citizen science projects
• Fieldwork and/or sample handling
• Good skills using Microsoft 365
• Good interpersonal skills, able to work well as a team, as well as independently, with a collaborative and inclusive approac