Research Assistant (Genomics Core) (Fixed Term)

The CI Genomics Core provides Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) services for the CRUK Cambridge Institute as well as the wider University and collaborative laboratories across The Cambridge Biomedical Campus. The CIGC supports translational research by providing variety of bulk DNA/RNA library preps (from multiple suppliers depending on the nucleic acid quality, all highly customized), sequencing service (MiSeq, NextSeq2000, NovaSeq6000 and ONT PromethIon, ONT MinION) and single cell library prep service including but not limited to 10X workflows. We support cell isolation (CellenOne) for downstream single cell applications and currently expanding spatial single cell platforms (10X Visium etc.).

You'll be joining us at an exciting time as we continue to expand our genomics service encompassing ever larger scale genomics projects, and continue to develop our utilisation and innovation of sequencing technologies, library preparation methods, and single cell techniques; providing genomic data for CRUK CI and the University of Cambridge.

The role holder will assist in the provision of these services as well as carrying out research support directly. This will include the introduction of new methods and technologies to enhance the quality of research at the Institute. Daily duties will involve RNA / DNA sample quality control, library preparation using standard kits from different suppliers, single-cell sample receipt and processing, LIMS curation, and sequencing these samples on Illumina sequencers, data analysis of quality, and interaction with users of the services. The post-holder will be involved in pilot experiments, testing and implementing new technologies including novel library preparation for bulk DNA/RNA and single cells, poor and good quality materials.

The post-holder will be expected to work under their own initiative for most of their daily duties and also to troubleshoot and resolve any issues they encounter. They will be able to work with the relevant technical support teams of instrument suppliers and may escalate issues to a more senior member of the group depending on the severity of the issue. Contribution to teaching within the Institute will include training users on QC equipment in the CIGC.

It is essential the role holder interacts exceptionally well with the Genomics core team as well as working independently as required. They will produce project documentation including writing and editing reports, presenting data to the team and generating SOP's.

The ideal applicant will have a degree in biological or biotechnological sciences and be experienced with a diversity of molecular biology techniques including PCR / qPCR, and DNA / RNA library preparation / single cell library preparation / NGS sequencing short and long reads). They will be an excellent communicator and team player and bring a positive impact to the Core. It would be highly desirable for the post-holder to have practical experience with DNA/RNA/single cell (dissociated and spatial) library preparation, Illumina next-generation sequencing systems, nanopore sequencing, and sample preparation for downstream single cell analysis. They will use their scientific knowledge, expertise and broad practical molecular biology skills to provide a truly excellent sequencing service, as well as helping the CIGC to set and maintain an excellent sequencing service.

This post may require some out of hours working and travel to national seminars/meetings.

Interviews are expected to be held on 19th May 2023.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 1 years in the first instance.

Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a security check.

Applications are welcome from internal candidates who would like to apply for the role on the basis of a secondment from their current role in the University.

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

If you have any queries regarding the application process or queries relating to the role, please contact: mailbox-hr@cruk.cam.ac.uk

Please quote reference SW36281 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

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