Laboratory Research Assistant

About the Role

The Labs Research Assistant will deliver RBG Kew's mission by providing R&D support in the molecular lab as part of a major programme to sequence 20,000 fungi and lichen specimens held by RBG Kew's fungarium and the Natural History Museum (NHM). Over a 4-year period, the project will adopt a mixed approach of whole genome sequencing and barcoding techniques. Containing more than 1.25 million specimens including 50,000 type specimens of worldwide origin, Kew's fungarium is home to the largest and most complete fungal collection in the world.

Responsibilities

The Labs Research Assistant will be responsible for carrying out specialist lab techniques as well as contributing to lab training and output dissemination. The Research Assistant will provide support in R&D work and will contribute with molecular data from fungal collections to support DNA sequencing within the Fungarium Sequencing project.

Qualifications

We are seeking candidates with experience in molecular lab work, in particular genomics and museomics techniques (e.g., library prep). Proficiency in statistics and knowledge of UK Health and Safety regulations are essential. Experience working with Fungi, lab R&D, aDNA techniques, and bioinformatics will be a plus. Candidates should have a degree, or a relevant equivalent qualification, in a science discipline.

Application Requirements

Please upload a copy of your research CV to support your application. This should include your publication and funding record, as well as any other relevant information to demonstrate your track record as a research scientist e.g. scientific honours and panel / committee memberships, PhD supervision etc.

Salary and Benefits

The salary for this position is £34,216 per annum Band C .

Our benefits package includes opportunities for continuous learning, a generous annual leave entitlement, flexible working, an Employee Assistance Programme, wellbeing support such as cycle to work scheme and discounted gym membership. We also offer a competitive pension, an employee discount scheme and free entry into a wide range of national museums and galleries, as well as access to our own beautiful gardens at Kew and Wakehurst.

If you are interested in this position, please submit your application through the online portal, by clicking "Apply for this job".

No agencies please.