Senior Research Assistant / Senior Scientist (Protist Genomics)
Applications are invited for a Senior Research Assistant / Senior Scientist in protist genomics to support the Darwin Tree of Life project at the Earlham Institute (EI), based in Norwich, UK.
Background:
This exciting position forms part of the Darwin Tree of Life Project to provide high-quality genome assemblies for all eukaryotic species in the British Isles. EI, along with the University of Exeter, will be leading the analysis of protists (single-celled eukaryote) genomes. Protists are often referred to as ‘biology’s dark matter’ as there is so little known about their biology and biodiversity. There are potentially millions of species, yet very few have been described. The project aims to pilot new methods to sample protist biodiversity in the UK and use comparative genomics tools to study the ecology and biology of these enigmatic organisms.
The role:
This role will develop, validate and apply high-throughput methodologies for large-scale sequencing of protist genomes, including cell sorting and automated library preparation, and providing continuous improvements and extensions to current systems; this will involve translating single-cell methodologies into robust, production-scale protocols and generate high-quality data using these protocols.
Candidates with substantial relevant experience will be considered for the Senior Scientist post, at grade SC5. Candidates at an earlier stage in their career will be considered for the Senior Research Assistant post, at grade SC6.
The ideal candidate:
Applicants should possess a PhD or equivalent experience in molecular biology and a good understanding of modern DNA sequencing technologies. Experience in the preparation of next-generation sequencing (NGS) libraries, laboratory automation, and validation of new protocols is essential. Experience in single-cell and/or microbial genomics would be advantageous.
The ideal candidate for the Senior (grade SC5) post will also be familiar with tools and algorithms used for analysis of next-generation sequencing (NGS) data, and have demonstrable experience with fluorescence activated cell-sorting (FACS) analysis platforms and single-cell genomics and/or method development in a genomics context.
Additional information:
Appointments made at the Senior Research Assistant level (grade SC6) will attract an annual salary of £31,625 - £38,575. Appointments made at Senior Scientist level (grade SC5) will attract an annual salary of £39,990 - £48,775. Salaries are dependent on qualifications and experience. This is a full-time post for a period of 3 years.
We welcome applications from candidates seeking part-time or other flexible working arrangements.
Interviews will be held on 12 December 2019.
For further information and details of how to apply, please visit our web site
http://jobs.earlham.ac.uk/ or contact the Human Resources team on 01603 450462 or
[email protected] quoting reference 1003808.
As a Disability Confident employer, we guarantee to offer an interview to all disabled applicants who meet the essential criteria for this vacancy.
The closing date for applications will be 3 December 2019.
