Research Assistant

Job title:

Research Assistant

Company:

University College London

Job description

About usBiosciences is one of the world’s foremost centres for research and teaching in the biological sciences and one of the largest Divisions within UCL, undertaking a significant amount of research and teaching. The Division has a diverse portfolio addressing all areas of biology from protein interactions to cell function, organism development, genetics, population studies and the environment. Computational modelling approaches are frequently used alongside experimental research programmes and much of our research crosses traditional boundaries, including the relationship of biodiversity to the health of the planet. Activity is underpinned by high calibre science technology platforms and state of the art equipment. Educational activity includes a range of undergraduate programmes, an expanding number of Masters Programmes and a substantial number of postgraduate research students.This is an exciting opportunity to join the labs of Dr Gaia Gestri and Prof Stephen Wilson. The Gestri and Wilson Groups use zebrafish to study eye and brain development. The labs form part of Zebrafish UCL (http://zebrafishucl.org) a vibrant research community within UCL Biosciences.About the roleWe wish to appoint a research assistant who will provide research support for the MRC-funded project “Resolving the basis of phenotypically variable hereditary abnormalities of eye formation”. Using sophisticated genetic approaches in zebrafish, this programme of research aims to identify new gene functions and genetic interactions that underlie the formation of the vertebrate eye. This knowledge will inform our understanding of ocular phenotypes such as Microphthalmia (small eyes), Anophthalmia (absence of eyes) and Coloboma (failure of optic fissure fusion; MAC), highly variable congenital conditions that severely impair vision in humans.Using a robust Crispr/Cas9 gene targeting approach, we systematically assess the consequences of loss of function of many hundreds of candidate MAC genes in genetically sensitised backgrounds.We are looking for an outstanding and highly motivated Research Assistant with strong interest in developmental biology and human disease modelling. The research assistant will play a crucial role in managing and executing the screen including: the maintenance and genotyping of zebrafish lines, designing guide RNAs to target new genes, microinjection and screening of F0 Crispr knock-outs, Mi-Seq analysis and broad phenotyping of new MAC gene candidates using a wide variety of techniques including IHC, HCR and behavioural analysis.ZebrafishUCL provides many outreach activities. You will be expected to contribute to these outreach programs as well as help with the training and supervision of BSc, MSc students in the Gestri and Wilson Laboratories. You will maintain laboratory protocols and safety manuals and ensure that all new members of staff or students entering the lab are inducted accordingly. You will provide technical and administrative support for the designated research area including maintenance of equipment, lab supplies, databases and webpages, ensuring that all work is carried out in accordance with statutory and UCL regulations as appropriate.The role holder will show enthusiasm, integrity and reliability in their work. They will have experience in critical evaluation of research results and trouble-shooting of research protocols.To deliver this the post holder will be adaptable, quick to assimilate information and establish his or her own support networks across UCL. An excellent eye for details, organisational skills, the ability to communicate effectively, good humour and patience are a must.

This role is an open-ended contract with a funding end date of 01/03/2026 in the first instance, salary Grade 6B based on educational qualification and experience of the candidate.This appointment is subject to UCL Terms and Conditions of Service for Research and Professional Services Staff. Please visit for more information.A job description and person specification can be accessed at the bottom of this page.If you have any queries about the role, please contact (ucgakje@ucl.ac.uk).If you need reasonable adjustments or a more accessible format to apply for this job online or have any queries about the application process, please contact Biosciences staffing at biosciences.staffing@ucl.ac.uk.About youApplicants must hold a MSc in in one of in the Biological Sciences. Significant laboratory experience of using zebrafish as a model organism is essential. A valid home office personal license for zebrafish work is highly desired. Experience of molecular biology techniques including designing of Crispr/Cas9 guide RNA, genotyping of adult and larval zebrafish, Mi-Seq analysis, cloning, RT-qPCR, immunostaining, in-situ hybridisation, fluorescence microscopy, and behavioural analysis of zebrafish larvae is highly desirable.We seek candidates who are detail-oriented, conscientious, and self-motivated. You will have an excellent attention to detail and the ability to work flexibly under varied workload and pressure to meet deadlines. Be able to demonstrate precision and care in tasks involving fine manual skills. Communicate their science in a clear manner. Due to the high-throughput nature of this screen you must be meticulously organised and an excellent record keeper. In addition to developing and conducting the research, you will contribute to the preparation of grant applications, research presentations and publications as requested.What we offerAs well as the exciting opportunities this role presents, we also offer some great benefits some of which are below:

• 41 Days holiday (27 days annual leave 8 bank holiday and 6 closure days)
• Additional 5 days’ annual leave purchase scheme
• Defined benefit career average revalued earnings pension scheme (CARE)
• Cycle to work scheme and season ticket loan
• Relocation scheme for certain posts
• On-Site nursery
• On-site gym
• Enhanced maternity, paternity and adoption pay
• Employee assistance programme: Staff Support Service
• Discounted medical insurance

Visit to find out more.Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and InclusionAs London’s Global University, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation, and we want our community to represent the diversity of the world’s talent. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where we all belong.We therefore particularly encourage applications from candidates who are likely to be underrepresented in UCL’s workforce.These include people from Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds; disabled people; LGBTQI+ people; and for our Grade 9 and 10 roles, women.Our department holds an Athena SWAN Silver award, in recognition of our commitment to advancing gender equality.You can read more about our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion here:Available documents

Expected salary

Location

North West London

Job date

Wed, 06 Nov 2024 04:37:52 GMT

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