Molecular Biology Technician (12 month FTC)

About Us We are a team of passionate individuals, developing ground-breaking biological solutions to sustainably and safely control insects that spread disease and destroy crops. We do this work to improve lives and livelihoods around the world in the face of growing threats that insects pose to human health and the global food supply. Whilst what we do relates to developing insect control technologies, our organisation is about people and in its service to people. All candidates for all Oxitec positions must be committed to Oxitec’s values and principles. We foster a culture of trust, respect, creativity, and accountability. Click here to read about trust and about our principles, and click here to read our CEO’s blog on trust and our corporate culture. Purpose of the Job We are seeking a highly motivated and capable molecular biologist to join a dynamic project team dedicated to the research and development of our self-limiting technology in insect species that spread disease, damage crops and harm livestock.  You will join our Molecular Biology Team who design and build the genetic circuits that power our Friendly™ insects. You will work closely with our technical experts in our highly adaptable laboratory to conduct experiments to characterise molecular biology and genetics of arthropods including moths, mosquitoes and ticks and contribute to the day-to-day running of the laboratory. To be successful at this job, you will have a self-starting attitude, show strong organisational skills, and demonstrate original thinking and attention to detail. Experience working in a molecular biology laboratory and confidence with molecular biology techniques are essential to help provide scientific research support within our R&D team, to meet our project objectives and company goals. You will work independently while maintaining a strong team ethos, demonstrating good laboratory practices, and will be able to follow SOPs. Responsibilities Running experiments according to specified protocols. Providing support to Senior Scientists in the lab during screening campaigns. Preparation of DNA, RNA and protein samples. PCR/qPCR analysis of nucleic acid samples, data entry and preliminary analysis. Molecular cloning. Preparation and maintenance of laboratory stock solutions, supplies and equipment. Cleaning and organising work areas. Excellent lab book maintenance. Assisting with maintaining up to date health and safety records. Writing and updating SOPs and risk assessments.  Skills, Experience, and Education Requirements Educated to BSc level. Experience of working in a molecular biology or similar laboratory is essential, experience of handling insect samples is preferred. Must be diligent and organised, with data recording abilities. Have a good attention for detail, excellent timekeeping standards and responsiveness. Good written English and oral communication skills. Competent in MS Word, Excel and Outlook.  Behavioural Requirements Commitment to and passion for the Oxitec mission and values. Responsive to the needs of an international business working across different time zones, adapting working patterns in-line with business requirements. Positive, humble, co-operative and professional. Working with sense of urgency and solving things promptly. Resilient and persistent in an innovative and constantly changing environment.