Do you want to help us improve human health and understand life on Earth? Make your mark by shaping the future to enable or deliver life-changing science to solve some of humanity's greatest challenges. We are lookingfor a Research Assistant to join the Tree of Life Programme on a 2 years fixed term contract. About the Role: As a Research Assistant, you will be responsible for conducting SOP described work, using the ELN Benchling to record this work, within the ToL Core Laboratory. Training will be provided, and a focus on quality, transparency and attention to detail will be a strong priority. You will be working with a team of Advanced Research Assistants, learning about their work and how your actions can support them, and have a strong impact on the work of the Tree of Life programme. You will be responsible for: As part of the Tree of Life Programme you will assist with the day to day running and organisation of our laboratory, working collaboratively with other team members and across the institute to deliver Tree of Life Programme. Your time will be split across different processes in the lab and it is critical that you are willing to be flexible in terms of the time allocated to each. It is possible that for periods of time you may be 100% dedicated to just one of these tasks. Processes include routine throughput of sample processing (involves dissecting, weighing, cryoprepping and powermashing of samples), automated DNA extractions, automated RNA extractions and submission of samples to Scientific Operations. About You: You will enjoy laboratory-based work, and be competent with basic molecular biology techniques. You will be an excellent communicator and have experience of working collaboratively. You will be well organised with the ability to work flexibly to support a number of projects and changing priorities. Essential Technical Skills: BSc in a biological science or relevant laboratory experience A basic and general understanding of molecular biology and associated practical techniques relevant to the role Good manual dexterity and attention to detail; quality driven Computer literate: Microsoft Office programmes including Word and Excel Skilled in time management, able to predict and communicate how and when tasks will be achieved Competencies and Behaviours: A high level of interpersonal and communications skills, confident in disseminating information to various audiences Ability to work collaboratively, supporting members of the team and reporting results in an open and timely manner Be open minded and willing to try out new approaches and solutions Excellent record keeping Works independently, once given adequate training, and capable of managing workloads and working to deadlines About Us: The Tree of Life Core Laboratory provide the wet-lab and sample processing support for all work under the Tree of Life Programme. The Tree of Life Programme is a major initiative to provide high-quality 'reference' genomes. There are many projects within the programme, including the Darwin project that aims to sequence all eukaryotic species in the Atlantic archipelago (Britain and Ireland). The project includes a wide range of partners across the UK such as the National History Museum (NHM), Kew Gardens, The Royal Botanic Gardens Edinburgh, The Earlham Institute, Wytham Woods and the Marine Biological Association (MBA). These genomes promise to transform our understanding of biodiversity, and our ability to conserve it. Application Process: Please apply with your CV and a brief Covering letter outlining how you meet the skills set out above, why you want to apply to this role and what value/experience you can bring. Salary per annum: £26,525 to £30,000 Research Assitant/ Technical Specialist job family: Grade 4 Role profile Contract Type: 2 years fixed term contract Closing Date: 12th January 2025 Hybrid Working at Wellcome Sanger: We recognise that there are many benefits to Hybrid Working; including an improved work-life balance, with more focused time, as well as the ability to organise working time so that collaborative opportunities and team discussions are facilitated on campus. The hybrid working arrangement will vary for different roles and teams. The nature of your role and the type of work you do will determine if a hybrid working arrangement is possible. Equality, Diversity and Inclusion: We aim to attract, recruit, retain and develop talent from the widest possible talent pool, thereby gaining insight and access to different markets to generate a greater impact on the world. We have a supportive culture with the following staff networks, LGBTQ, Parents and Carers, Disability and Race Equity to bring people together to share experiences, offer specific support and development opportunities and raise awareness. The networks are also a place for allies to provide support to others. We want our people to be whoever they want to be because we believe people who bring their best selves to work, do their best work. That's why we're committed to creating a truly inclusive culture at Sanger Institute. We will consider all individuals without discrimination and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, where everyone can thrive. Our Benefits: We are proud to deliver an awarding campus-wide employee wellbeing strategy and programme. The importance of good health and adopting a healthier lifestyle and the commitment to reduce work-related stress is strongly acknowledged and recognised at Sanger Institute. Sanger Institute became a signatory of the International Technician Commitment initiative In March 2018. The Technician Commitment aims to empower and ensure visibility, recognition, career development and sustainability for technicians working in higher education and research, across all disciplines.