Laboratory Technician

We are looking for a talented and motivated full-time laboratory technician to support the cancer research labs of Prof Will Brackenbury and Dr Andrew Mason within the Jack Birch Unit (JBU), where Prof Brackenbury is the unit director. The Jack Birch Unit (JBU) is an epithelial cancer research unit based in the Department of Biology and is affiliated with the York Biomedical Research Institute (YBRI). The JBU is the flagship research unit of local charity York Against Cancer. Beyond a well-equipped main lab area, M0 corridor and the JBU have specialist labs for human primary cell and tissue culture, histology and immunohistology, molecular biology, microbiology and microscopy. The post is full time, initially for 12 months with the possibility of extending, subject to funding.

The Department of Biology is recognised as one of the leading and most accomplished departments at York, with a global reputation for excellence in both teaching and research. We are committed to fostering a supportive environment where staff and students can thrive, contribute their best, and achieve their full potential. We take great pride in holding the Athena Swan Gold Award.

The primary focus of this role will be to actively contribute to ongoing cancer research programmes looking at epithelial cancers using human cell and tissue models, with emphasis on bladder cancer, kidney cancer, breast cancer and colon cancer cell and tissue models. Additional duties relating to the role will be to provide general technical support across the various research groups, as well as supporting various technical activities within the Department of Biology. We are seeking to appoint a candidate with a strong track record in epithelial tissue research, preferably with experience working with human tissue and human cancer cell lines. A core attribute we are seeking is the ability to manage various distinct responsibilities within the role.

Skills, Experience & Qualifications needed:

• Undergraduate degree (or equivalent relevant professional experience).

• Professional registration with RSci/REng (or equivalent), or willingness to work towards it.

• In-depth and current theoretical and practical knowledge of epithelial cell biology.

• Broad understanding and in-depth knowledge of relevant safety legislation and regulations.

• Proven track record in applying technical skills associated with epithelial cell biology.

• Ability to work independently using initiative, problem-solving, and analytical skills.

• Competence in statistical and mathematical methods to analyze, interpret, and present complex scientific data in written format for publications.

• Demonstrable experience of working on own initiative, training others, and applying specialist knowledge to improve service delivery.

• A track record in epithelial cancer research and experience of working under the Human Tissue Act is desirable.

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. As a Disability Confident employer, we will ensure that a fair and proportionate number of disabled applicants that meet the minimum (essential) criteria for each position will be offered an interview.