Research Technician

Department of Biology

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.

We're looking for a highly motivated research technician to join the Department of Biology at the University of York. You will work with Dr Nicola Baker and her group, investigating how Leishmania parasites adapt to environmental changes (pH and temperature) to survive.

By joining our team, you will be part of the internationally renowned York Biomedical Research Institute and collaborate within a working environment where every team member is valued. We have a vibrant, multi-team environment, forming the parasites network, dedicated to investigating cellular processes in parasites responsible for major global diseases. This is underpinned by a strong culture of equality that empowers all staff and students to contribute fully, flourish, and excel.

Role

A full or part-time Research Technician position is available immediately on a fixed-term basis for 24 months (with the duration adjustable for part-time applicants). The minimum hours are 22.20 hours a week (0.6 FTE) up to 37 hours a week (1 FTE). Your primary responsibility will be to provide skilled technical support for investigations into how Leishmania parasites sense and adapt to their environment, specifically focusing on the protein kinase pathways involved in sensing temperature and pH fluctuations.

You will work closely within a small team, assisting a Postdoctoral Research Associate (PDRA) and the Principal Investigator (PI), whilst also embedded within a larger laboratory environment made up of multiple research groups. Specifically, you will grow Leishmania parasites and utilise CRISPR-Cas9 editing to generate mutants for characterisation via microscopy and Western blotting. You will also manage routine cell culture of experimental cell lines, assist in proteomic and Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) workflows, maintain rigorous scientific records, and help train other members of the laboratory.

Skills, Experience & Qualification needed

• A degree, equivalent qualification, or relevant laboratory experience in Biological Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, or a closely related discipline.
• Practical experience working in a biological research laboratory, specifically with routine cell culture and microscopy.
• Experience with, or a strong understanding of, molecular biology techniques such as CRISPR-Cas9 editing and Western blotting.
• An eagerness to assist with advanced techniques, including proteomic and Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) workflows.
• A proven ability to work synergistically within a small core team, supporting a PDRA and PI, while also interacting comfortably with a wider network of research groups.
• Excellent organisational skills, meticulous attention to detail, and the ability to maintain rigorous and accurate scientific records.
• Strong communication skills with an aptitude for training others and fostering a supportive, inclusive, and team-oriented environment.