Research Technician
Department
Chemistry
Salary
£30,487 per year
Grade
Grade 5
Contract status
Fixed term
Hours of work
Full-time
Based at
University of York campus
Interview date
To be confirmed
Posted Date
28/03/2024
Apply by
10/04/2024
Job Reference
13271
Documents
Job description 13271.pdf
(PDF, 284.02kb)
Role Description
Department
Applications are invited for a technician for up to 12 months to support the
group's efforts in understanding the molecular mechanism of dsDNA virus
assembly using bacteriophage HK97 as a model system. You will work in the York
Structural Biology Laboratory within the Department of Chemistry, providing
technical and scientific support to the research project.
The Department of Chemistry is one of the largest and most successful
departments at York and we are renowned internationally for our research. As a
department, we strive to provide a working environment that allows all staff
and students to contribute fully, to flourish, and to excel. We are proud of
our Athena SWAN Gold Award.
Role
You will: (i) produce and purify bacteriophage HK97 capsids as well as DNA
motor proteins and their mutant variants; (ii) assemble stable DNA-packaging
assemblies, (iii) determine 3D structure using cryo-EM and (iv) analyse
structural data to understand the molecular mechanism of DNA packaging.
Key responsibilities will include: -
Work effectively on own initiative and also with other staff and students
to help solve problems
Plan and perform experiments using a range of scientific techniques
Be responsible for the maintenance, modification, repair and operation of
technical equipment, liaise with appropriate staff and external service
providers as required
Pro-actively update and improve processes, maintain accurate records,
contribute to the development of protocols, standard operating procedures
and maintenance schedules
Understand, promote and apply COSHH/Risk Assessment and departmental
health and safety protocols ensuring procedures are followed at all times
Manage a small budget, monitor resource usage, assist with purchasing
including ordering and distributing goods
Provide inductions, training and demonstrations of specialist techniques
ensuring compliance with safety and regulatory guidelines
Skills, Experience & Qualification needed
HNC, HND, Degree or equivalent in appropriate science discipline or
experience
RSciTech / EngTech or willingness to work towards these or equivalent
professional qualifications
In depth knowledge of relevant safety regulations and procedures for
example, COSHH and risk assessment
Familiarity with structure determination by EM using single-particle 3D
reconstruction with RELION
Experience in virology and molecular biology, in particular purification
of virus particles and production and purification of individual proteins
Competent in the use of advanced technical equipment and techniques using
a variety of specialist technical skills
Ability to analyse and interpret data and explain complex information to
others
Experienced in producing procapsids of viruses, assessing and modifying
the nuclease activity of DNA packaging terminase
Good interpersonal skills with the ability to communicate effectively and
maintain a positive, open attitude towards others
Actively demonstrates a commitment to professional development
Dependable, reliable and self-motivated
Commitment to and understanding of equality, diversity and inclusion
issues
Interview date: To be confirmed
For informal enquiries: please contact Prof Fred Antson on
[email protected]
The University strives to be diverse and inclusive – a place where we can ALL
be ourselves.
We particularly encourage applications from people who identify as Black,
Asian or from a Minority Ethnic background, who are underrepresented at the
University.
We offer family friendly, flexible working arrangements, with forums and
inclusive facilities to support our staff. #EqualityatYork
