Advanced Research Assistant

Do you want to help us improve human health and understand life on Earth? Make your mark by shaping the future to enable or deliver life-changing science to solve some of humanity’s greatest challenges.

About the Role:

We are seeking an experienced Advanced Research Assistant to carry out cell culture, next generation sequencing library preparation and histological protocols and procedures. It is expected you will be able to use your skills and experience in support of the Nangalia Group in the CASM Research Programme. 

Your role will also involve work at the Cambridge Blood and Stem Cell Biobank at the University of Cambridge.

You will be responsible for:

You will also be expected to prepare samples using cell culture, and subsequently for novel sequencing techniques. Your role will involve laser capture microdissection and histological cutting. This role requires coordination with a multidisciplinary team and contributing to the smooth running of a research laboratory. 

You will liaise with a variety of stakeholders internal and external to the CASM programme, contributing the exciting variety of research initiatives at the Wellcome Sanger Institute.

About You:

As an Advanced Research Assistant, you will have a demonstrable background in roles that have required effective communication, organisational skills and collaboration. You will have experience with molecular biology techniques such as PCR and preparing libraries for next-generation sequencing as well as histology and flow cytometry. You will also enjoy working collaboratively in a diverse and dynamic team environment.

We are looking for a candidate with an interest in cancer biology, ageing, stem cell biology and cutting edge molecular techniques. Your role may involve flow cytometry and cell sorting. 

Essential Skills:

• Biological degree with experience in a histology and/or molecular biology lab 

• Good Laboratory Practice 

• Significant practical experience in a histology laboratory 

• Proven histology skills including paraffin sectioning, frozen sectioning, H&S staining 

• Use of automatic tissue processor 

• Excellent attention to detail and ability to keep good electronic and written records 

• Ability to organise own workload meeting deadlines. 

• Ability to work independently and within a group but be able to recognise when to seek help.

• Excellent written and oral communication skills. 

• Adaptable, enthusiastic and approachable 

• Computer literate including the use of excel and google sheets 

• Use of LIMS 

To apply, please submit with your CV and covering letter, outlining the criteria set out above.

Other information:

Salary per annum: (£31,739 - £38,902) dependent on skills and experience.

Contract: 3 years 

Closing date: 4th June 

Hybrid Working at Wellcome Sanger:

We recognise that there are many benefits to Hybrid Working; including an improved work-life balance, with more focused time, as well as the ability to organise working time so that collaborative opportunities and team discussions are facilitated on campus. The hybrid working arrangement will vary for different roles and teams. The nature of your role and the type of work you do will determine if a hybrid working arrangement is possible.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion:

We aim to attract, recruit, retain and develop talent from the widest possible talent pool, thereby gaining insight and access to different markets to generate a greater impact on the world. We have a supportive culture with the following staff networks, LGBTQ+, Parents and Carers, Disability and Race Equity to bring people together to share experiences, offer specific support and development opportunities and raise awareness. The networks are also a place for allies to provide support to others.

We want our people to be whoever they want to be because we believe people who bring their best selves to work, do their best work. That’s why we’re committed to creating a truly inclusive culture at Sanger Institute. We will consider all individuals without discrimination and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, where everyone can thrive.

Our Benefits:

We are proud to deliver an awarding campus-wide employee wellbeing strategy and programme. The importance of good health and adopting a healthier lifestyle and the commitment to reduce