Job Description
Job Title: Spatial Biology Research Technician
Location: Wolfson Wohl Cancer Research Centre, University of Glasgow
Fixed Term: Up to 36 months
Salary: UoG Grade 5: £26,038 – £30,505 per annum / UoG Grade 6: £33,232 – £36,924 per annum
Job Purpose
The Spatial Biology Research Technician will provide specialist technical support to Dr. Nigel Jamieson and his team, focusing on cutting-edge research in spatial biology, including spatial transcriptomics, cancer immunology, and personalized medicine for Pancreatic Cancer. Dr. Jamieson’s group is part of the Cancer Research UK Scotland Centre and one of Europe’s leading spatial-omic research hubs.
The role will primarily involve supporting the characterization of premalignant pancreatic cancer using advanced spatial biology platforms, such as Nanostring GeoMx, Nanostring CosMx, 10x Genomics VISIUM, and STEREOSEQ. Additionally, you will collaborate with various research groups both within the University of Glasgow and across Europe, supporting a range of preclinical and clinical projects, including clinical trials.
This position offers significant opportunities for professional development, with access to advanced spatial-omics technologies and the chance to work alongside experts in the field.
Main Duties and Responsibilities
Conduct research under the guidance of the Principal Investigator (PI), using standard techniques (e.g., immunohistochemistry, nucleic acid isolation) and specialized spatial-omics protocols to meet project objectives.
Contribute to the smooth running of the lab, ensuring excellent service delivery and support to users.
Develop technical expertise and provide advice to researchers on spatial transcriptomics and spatial biology platforms (GeoMx, CosMx, VISIUM, STEREOSEQ).
Troubleshoot and maintain equipment, systems, and protocols for spatial-omics workflows, diagnosing faults and carrying out necessary maintenance.
Design and organize technical activities and experiments, ensuring timely completion.
Monitor technical standards and help improve existing protocols in consultation with senior staff.
Maintain accurate experimental records, update databases, and present research findings clearly to both internal and external audiences.
Advise and train service users on the best practices for utilizing technical resources.
Manage lab stock levels, prepare samples, and order consumables within budget constraints. Ensure safe handling and storage of hazardous materials.
Ensure compliance with health and safety standards, including risk and COSHH assessments.
Collaborate with research teams, both within the University and externally, to enhance project outcomes and contribute to the broader strategic goals of the University.
Additional Duties for Grade 6:
Perform tasks with a higher degree of independence, managing and coordinating research projects both internally and with external collaborators.
Analyze complex data, identify trends or issues, and present findings to the research group or in publications and presentations.
Stay current with advancements in spatial-omics technologies and integrate new knowledge into research activities.
Manage multiple research projects from inception to completion, ensuring smooth execution.
Knowledge/Qualifications, Skills, and Experience
Essential:
A1: Demonstrable competence in a similar technical role or qualification equivalent to Scottish Credit and Qualification Framework Level 7 (Advanced Higher, HNC, or equivalent) with relevant personal development.
A2: Significant expertise in histology, tissue imaging, or a closely related field.
A3: Knowledge of relevant legislative requirements, including health and safety regulations.
E1: Experience with immunohistochemistry and next-generation sequencing (NGS) workflows.
For Grade 6 Applicants:
B1: Postgraduate qualification (e.g., Masters or PhD) or equivalent professional experience in a relevant research discipline.
E2: Proven experience managing research projects from inception to completion.
Skills:
C1: Highly developed molecular biology skills, including immunohistochemistry, RT-PCR, and nucleic acid extraction.
C2: Willingness to learn new techniques and excellent project management skills.
C3: Strong communication skills, with the ability to effectively train and advise staff and collaborators.
C4: Ability to troubleshoot problems independently and meet deadlines.
C5: Experience with data analysis tools (e.g., SPSS, GraphPad, Prism) and working with transcriptomic data (Grade 6).
C6: Proven ability to produce high-quality research outputs in a timely manner (Grade 6).
Terms and Conditions
This position is full-time and fixed-term for up to 36 months.
Grade 5: Applicants must have the right to work in the UK and do not require Skilled Worker Sponsorship.
Grade 6: Applicants requiring a Skilled Worker Visa must meet eligibility requirements for sponsorship.
Why Join Us?
As part of the University of Glasgow, you will be part of a world-changing, inclusive community. We offer a supportive work environment, professional development opportunities, and a comprehensive benefits package, including:
Generous annual leave (41 days for full-time staff).
Pension scheme, health and wellbeing support, including a free 6-month UofG Sport membership.
Flexible working arrangements.
The University of Glasgow values diversity and equality, and we strongly encourage applications from underrepresented groups, including people from Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME) communities.
For more information and to apply, please visit our Careers Page.