UKCEH is looking for a Molecular Biology Technician to join our team of talented individuals, contributing to scientific discovery and generating the data, insights and solutions that researchers, industry and governments need to solve complex environmental challenges.

Working at UKCEH is rewarding. Our science makes a real difference, enabling people and the environment to prosper and enriching society. We are the custodians of a wealth of environmental data, collected by UKCEH and its predecessors over the course of more than 60 years.

As a valued member of our team, you’ll get: 

• 27 days annual leave, plus 3 days for our Christmas closure  

• 10% employer pension contribution 

• Enhanced maternity and paternity leave (subject to qualifying requirements) 

• 24 hour, 365-day access to support with physical, mental, social, health or financial issues plus access to our trained Welfare Officers 

• Flexible working opportunities 

And much more... 

You’ll be joining our Molecular Ecology research group to provide laboratory and field support for a range of molecular and microbiology research projects.

Our research focuses on applying genomics to study the composition and functions of biological communities in terrestrial and freshwater ecosystems. Working across UKCEH, our research themes include using molecular analysis (DNA sequencing) to study microbial ecology, biodiversity, antimicrobial resistance, and ecotoxicology.

This role gives you access to and training in using various techniques in our world-class molecular ecology laboratories in Wallingford, Oxfordshire, including DNA extraction, high-throughput sequencing, and single-cell imaging and sorting.

You’ll be joining a leading independent, not-for-profit research institute that’s committed to recruiting talented people like you, progressing your career and giving you the support you need to thrive at UKCEH. 

Your main responsibilities will include:

• Preparation of sampling equipment

• Laboratory sample processing – sample weighing, DNA extraction and assisting with qPCR and metagenomic sequencing preparation

• Disseminating information and results (supporting report writing for stakeholders/funders and academic publications)

• Supporting project leads with stakeholder engagement

• Opportunity to assist with fieldwork in both aquatic and terrestrial environments

For the role of Molecular Biology Technician, we’re looking for somebody who has:

• A BSc (2:1 or above), an MSc or equivalent in microbiology, environmental sciences, molecular biology or similar

• Laboratory experience, with an organised, methodical approach, and understands sample management and a good awareness of lab health and safety practices

• Excellent interpersonal and time management skills, with the ability to adapt to changing priorities and ensuring an inclusive communication approach

• An interest in relevant topics such as environmental research, pollution and ecosystem health, and antimicrobial resistance

Desirable:

• Experience in molecular laboratory techniques (e.g., DNA extraction and quantitative PCR)

• Comfortable working in the field and with a range of samples – including wading in rivers and working with wastewater

• Has a full UK driving licence – please confirm in your CV

Interview Process:

If you are shortlisted for interview, this will be a one stage interview process.  A 50-minute interview, where you’ll be required to prepare and give a short 5-minute presentation. 

Ideally, interviews will be in person at our Wallingford site, which gives you the opportunity to take a short 15-minute tour of our facilities after your interview.  We can also accommodate online interviews; the team will give you a presentation of our facilities in place of a physical tour.

If we’ve just described you, we’d love to meet you. Apply now via the button above.

Please send us your CV, accompanied by a covering letter which highlights any relevant skills and experience, together with what excites you most about the role and working for UKCEH.    

Unfortunately, we are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this position at this time