Directorate: School of Engineering & Physical Sciences
Grade: Grade 7 (£36,023-£40,522)
Contract Type: Full Time, Fixed Term (Until November 2024)
Detailed Description
Heriot-Watt University is seeking to recruit an enthusiastic candidate to help deliver research in the area of Molecular Biology. The successful candidate will be employed for a period of 24 months at 100% FTE, as part of a project entitled “MicroSNARE: Automated Enrichment Of Circulating Tumour DNA For Improved Cancer Treatment”.
This research is funded by EPSRC and aims to develop novel solutions for the enrichment of circulating tumour DNA. The recruited researcher will be responsible for developing and testing methods to enrich specific sequence variants from within cancer patient’s cell free DNA samples. They will also collaborate with Bioengineers in the deployment of a fluid-handling robotic platform, whose performance will be compared to a microfluidic system. In addition, they may contribute to the acquisition and transport of clinical samples to Heriot-Watt campus, and will be responsible for the quality control, and data management throughout the project.
The post-holder will be required to demonstrate experience of standard molecular biology protocols. They will be expected to work as part of a wider research team.
The role will be based at the University's campus in Edinburgh. The candidate will have the access to established university resources, and an induction programme will be delivered to all new appointees.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
1. Conduct and manage research and related administrative activities, with guidance as required, ensuring that project aims and objectives are met.
2. Working closely with the supervisory team, develop and plan research objectives.
3. Present information on research progress and outcomes to, for example, project lead, research team, etc.
4. Support the publication or research reports, conference, and indexed journal papers in line with project requirements.
5. Build appropriate networks within the team.
6. Support dissemination and contribute to the preparation of technical workshops, seminars, and conferences as appropriate.
7. Ensure that all data collection undertaken as part of the project is done so ethically and in line with both UK (GDPR) privacy and data protection policies, and in compliance with the requirements of the funder.
Education, Qualifications and Experience
Essential
8. PhD degree in Molecular Biology or related cognate discipline
9. Experience of Molecular Biology (PCR, and other DNA quantification, sequencing).
10. Clear communicator with excellent organisational skills, and experience of quality control
11. Fluent (verbal and written) in English
12. Proficient in Microsoft Office Software (Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
13. Hardworking, proactive, willing to learn new things
14. Ability to work both independently and as part of a team
15. Flexible, self-motivated and able to plan his/her own work
16. Good interpersonal skills
17. Enjoys being part of an academic community, and willing to take a 'hands on' approach from the outset.
Desirable
18. Possesses research and analytical skills with strong capacity to conduct independent research
19. Experience of publishing papers in journals/ conferences
About our Team
More information regarding the Clinical Microfluidics Laboratory, led by Maiwenn Kersaudy-Kerhoas can be found at:
and regarding Nick Leslie’s research can be found here:
With state-of-the-art learning resources and teaching spaces, the Heriot Watt University campus is a dynamic and stimulating place to study, boasting an exceptional range of facilities to provide a high-quality student experience. These include a variety of informal study spaces, an extensive library and easy access to IT facilities with wireless Internet connectivity throughout. Teaching activities are styled on a student-centred approach to learning, which means, students develop independence, emotional intelligence, and analytical skills, making them highly sought after by employers.
Our research focuses on the challenges of significance to our society and draws upon close collaboration with industry and government sectors. Our profile has grown significantly over recent years, and we seek to build upon this success by extending our reach, building upon the themes of innovation and enterprise. Delivering against this next stage is an important step in building capacity for research, innovation, and business engagement in support of our Strategy 2025.