Research Technician in Circadian Physiology

We are seeking an ambitious and motivated Research Technician in Circadian Physiology to support a wide range of research activities within a new research group investigating the impact of early-life light environment on the development and function of the brain circadian clock. This role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to project specific research activities, including neurophysiological recordings, behavioural studies, histological processing on brain tissue and rodent colony management, within a dynamic and inclusive environment.

You will be responsible for

• Setup and assistance with ex vivo neurophysiological recordings
• Performing and analysing behavioural assessments in rodents
• Brain sectioning and histological processing
• Animal colony management
• Collating and storing accurate records using paper and computer based systems and the preparation of data for inclusion in presentations and publications

We welcome candidates who bring diverse perspectives, experiences, and approaches to their work

About You

Essential Criteria

• A qualification at QCF level 6 (such as a bachelor’s degree) in a relevant biological science subject OR QCF level 2 passes (such as GCSE’s) in English and Mathematics and at least one Science subject and substantial relevant experience of working in a research laboratory
• Knowledge of a range of techniques such as ex vivo electrophysiological/ imaging recordings in living brain slices, rodent circadian behavioural monitoring, brain tissue collection, histological processing and image analysis
• Practical experience in one or several of the following laboratory techniques: ex vivo electrophysiological/imaging recordings in living brain slices, rodent circadian behavioural monitoring, brain tissue collection, histological processing and image analysis, and rodent colony management
• Excellent communication skills (written and oral), demonstrating an ability to deal with a wide range of people, effectively and politely with staff, students and visitors
• Excellent organisational skills, ability to prioritise a variety of work activities in a busy environment and meet strict deadlines

Desirable Criteria

• Practical experience working with neonatal tissue would be an advantage
• Experience of working with specific IT packages/software e.g. QuPath, Matlab, etc

We value transferable skills and real-world experience as much as formal qualifications

Our benefits include

• Generous employer pension contribution
• Christmas closure across all departments outside of annual leave and bank holidays
• Purple Place employee discount platform

For more information, please see University of Manchester Benefits. You can also find information on our Flexible and Hybrid working here.

We are an open place of enquiry and challenge. We embrace and celebrate difference, diversity and debate, and we pride ourselves on being a place of education, learning and community where we are able, within the law, to question and test received wisdom, express new ideas and explore controversial or unpopular topics and opinions. Find out more from our Freedom of Speech Policy.

Successful candidates may be subject to pre-employment screening carried out on our behalf by a third party. The offer of employment will be dependent on the successful candidate passing that screening. Whilst you will be required to provide express consent at a later stage, by continuing with your application now you acknowledge that you are aware that such screening will take place, and agree to take part in the process.

Enquiries about the role, shortlisting and interviews

Name: Dr Beatriz Bano Otalora and Technical Operations Manager Rachel Watkins

Email Address: View email address on uk.workus.org and ***email_hidden***

General enquiries and administrative support

View email address on uk.workus.org

Technical and job portal support

This role is not eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship. Applicants must demonstrate the right to work in the UK.

Applications close at midnight on the closing date.

Further particulars (with person specification) linked below.