We are seeking to appoint a Research Technician to join a world-leading and dynamic research team at the Department of Life Sciences at Imperial College London. The successful candidate will join the team of Dr Nikolai Windbichler (windbichlerlab.org/) and Dr Angela Meccariello (imperial.ac.uk/people/a.meccariello) based at Imperial’s South Kensington Campus.

The project seeks to further develop the revolutionary gene drive technology for the control of agricultural insect pest species. It sits at the intersection of molecular biology, genomics, genetics, entomology, and the development of efficient systems that use genetics to create male-biased insect populations.

The goal of the project is to develop new and innovative genetic control offers a species-specific approach to tackle this problem by delivering novel traits into target populations via the release of modified insects. The project is part of a wider collaborative network; thus, the role will involve a high degree of teamwork and interdisciplinary research.

You must be in possession of an Undergraduate Degree in relevant subject. Demonstrable experience of working with Ceraratis capitata, Drosophila or other insect species, as well as a good knowledge of insect genetics and transgenesis, and practical experience of working within a highly competitive research environment. An emerging successful track record of academic publications commensurate with experience is also essential. Good knowledge of genomics and experience in insect biology is desirable.

You must be a highly motivated, innovative, and creative individual with demonstrable ability to develop and apply new concepts, and a proactive approach to problem solving. Excellent verbal and written communication skills, and proven ability to write clearly and succinctly for high profile publications are also essential. You must be able to organise and prioritise their own work with minimal supervision and to independently drive forward their research project.

Duties and responsibilities

• Conducting the rearing of wild type and transgenic lines of Ceratitis capitata (medfly)
• Setting up genetic crosses
• Assist with medfly embryo microinjection to generate transgenic strains
• Tissue dissections and genomic DNA extraction from medfly samples
• To keep the conditions and hygiene of insectary facilities at a high standard
• To prepare and carry out experiments following guidelines and analyse results using a range of agreed procedures
• To prepare media and chemical solutions
• To prioritise tasks within an agreed work schedule
• Assisting in the maintenance of climate-controlled insectary rooms in the SAF building

Essential requirements

• Undergraduate Degree in relevant subject or a related scientific discipline
• Basic experience in molecular biology
• Conducting the rearing of wild type and transgenic lines of Ceratitis capitata (medfly)
• Setting up genetic crosses
• Assist with medfly embryo microinjection to generate transgenic strains
• A successful track record of academic publications commensurate with experience
• Practical experience of working within a highly competitive research environment
• Good knowledge of insect genetics and transgenesis.

Further information

This is a full-time, fixed-term position available for up to 18 months, with the possibility of extension subject to the availability of funding. You will be based at South Kensington Campus.

Should you require any further details on the role please contact: Dr Nikolai Windbichler – n.windbichler@imperial.ac.uk

Documents

• Job Description Research Technician.pdf