JOB DESCRIPTION
Post: Research Assistant – Mucosal Immunology
Group: Clinical Group
Responsible to: Prof. S Gordon and Dr D Ferreira
Contract: Full time, fixed-term until 31st March 2012
Grade: Grade 6 (25,854 - £29,972)
Summary of role:
To work as part of a team involved in investigating the mucosal and systemic response to
vaccine antigens. As a research assistant it will be expected that the successful candidate
will be personally responsible for designing and executing their own experiments.
Main duties and responsibilities:
1. Contribute to the development and delivery of laboratory based research activities
of the Mucosal Immunology project, including the following:
Conduct ELISA assays
Flow cytometric assays
Undertake data analysis to associate systemic and mucosal responses
Maintenance of cell culture systems
Assistance in the production of recombinant protein
Operate analytical systems such as flow cytometry and fluorimetry
Maintenance of bacterial cultures if needed
2. Undertake laboratory supervisory duties as required, ensuring maintenance and
preparation of equipment and supplies:
Prepare and maintain adequate laboratory records of methods, sample
details, results and risk assessments
Responsible for the maintenance and running of laboratory equipment
associated with cell culture and bioanalysis
Liaise with suppliers, order laboratory equipment and consumables
Provide assistance to research scientists working on the project
Assist with general laboratory maintenance
3. Assist with and participate in the production and dissemination of research
outputs:
Undertake systematic literature reviews to support research activities
To prepare and effectively communicate results to other members of the
group at project meetings
Ensure the accurate communication of methodologies and data to other
members of the group.
To contribute research ideas and to actively participate in the planning of the
research activity
Take part in the preparation and writing of scientific reports and peer-
reviewed publications for the scientific community
4. Other duties:
Prioritisation of own work on a day-to-day basis against pre-set deadlines
Responsible for working in a safe manner adhering to local and legal
requirements.
Carry out such other duties applicable to the level of the role
PERSON SPECIFICATION
Research Assistant – Mucosal Immunology
Criteria Competency’s Essential / Assessment
Desirable
Education & BSc in a Biological Science such as E
Training Microbiology, Biochemistry or Pharmacology
Application
MSc in a Biological Science such as D Form/CV
Microbiology, Biochemistry or Pharmacology
Experience Relevant experience of working within a E
research laboratory including ELISA.
Flow cytometry and analysis E
Maintenance of laboratory data, book and E
record keeping.
Experience of working to health and safety E
regulations and legal requirements. Application
Form,
Research experience in the use of quantitative E Assessment
research methods, including data collection and
and analysis. Interview
Experience in conducting systematic literature E
reviews.
Experience of drafting/writing scientific E
reports
Cell culture experience. E
Working with in vivo experimental models D
Salmonella biology D
Skills & Excellent verbal, written, communication and E
Abilities presentation skills, with the ability to
communicate at all levels.
Ability to generate research ideas E
Excellent organisational skills. E
Assessment
Skill in basic cell biology (aseptic techniques), E and
biochemistry, analytical, bioanalysis and Interview
tissue culture.
Skills in data analysis and statistics E
Willingness to work as an integral and E
cooperative member of a multi-disciplinary,
multinational research team
Flexible attitude to work E
Excellent academic writing skills E
Ability to meet deadlines and prioritise own E
work.
Knowledge Knowledge of microbiology and immunology E
Computer literate with knowledge of E
Microsoft Office applications Assessment
and
Knowledge of safety regulations E Interview
Vaccine biology D
Special Working with limited supervision. E
aptitude
Show initiative and work independently where E
appropriate Assessment
and
Enthusiastic approach to work E Interview
Ability to work in close collaboration with E
colleagues
Circumstances Full time
Fixed-term until 31st March 2012