Technician

We are seeking a highly motivated and enthusiastic Research Technician to join our research team at the University of Birmingham to investigate the mechanisms underlying mitochondrial and mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) dynamics during spermatogenesis.

The project will use Drosophila melanogaster as a genetic model to understand how mitochondria and mtDNA are maintained, organised and regulated during sperm development. In particular, we aim to investigate how mtDNA and mitochondria undergo dynamic changes during different stages of spermatogenesis, and identify the molecular mechanisms controlling these processes.

The successful candidate will have a strong background in Drosophila genetics and molecular biology, with an interest in mitochondrial biology and developmental processes. They will employ a combination of fly genetics, molecular techniques and advanced imaging approaches to investigate mtDNA dynamics during spermatogenesis.

Role Summary:
- Work within a funded research project investigating mitochondrial DNA maintenance and dynamics during Drosophila spermatogenesis.
- Apply expertise in Drosophila genetics, molecular biology and microscopy to investigate mitochondrial organisation and mtDNA behaviour during sperm development.
- Provide technical support for experimental research, including maintaining fly stocks, generating genetic crosses, preparing samples and performing molecular and imaging experiments.
- Contribute to experimental data collection, analysis, research presentations and scientific publications.

Main Duties:
- Maintain and manage Drosophila stocks, design and perform genetic crosses, and generate flies carrying specific genetic combinations.
- Perform molecular biology experiments, including DNA extraction, PCR, molecular cloning and genetic construct preparation.
- Dissect and prepare Drosophila testes and other tissues for cellular and molecular analyses.
- Perform immunofluorescence staining and confocal microscopy to investigate mitochondrial morphology, mtDNA localisation and dynamics during spermatogenesis.
- Conduct experiments to investigate the mechanisms regulating mtDNA maintenance, distribution and organisation during sperm development.
- Analyse microscopy images and experimental data using appropriate image analysis and statistical tools.
- Maintain accurate experimental records, organise research materials and contribute to laboratory management.
- Work collaboratively with other team members, contribute to experimental planning and troubleshooting, and support the preparation of research reports and publications.
- Provide in-depth knowledge of methods and procedures to advise on techniques and experimental procedures used by researchers and/or students.
- Diagnose and resolve problems and suggest solutions in regard to techniques and experiments.
- Carry out specialist technical and experimental procedures using judgement to assess the correct technique and consider improvements.

Health and Safety Duties:
- Proactive support for health and safety within the laboratory, including looking after a communal area as required.
- Comply with all current rules and ensure all required assessments are in place, approved and up to date.
- Fully understand the safety aspects of equipment operation and demonstrate/train staff on correct usage.
- Ensure regular maintenance processes are carried out and appropriate records maintained.
- Report any breaches or non-compliance with H&S procedures to relevant managers.
- Uphold the correct waste disposal stream as governed by College and local policy.

General Administration and Organisation:
- Ensure all records are accurate and kept up to date.
- Proactively maintain stocks of consumables and generate purchase order requisitions using University systems.
- Receipt and correct storage of consumables, equipment and chemical reagents.
- Ensure facilities are maintained in a clean, functional and safe condition.
- Ensure PAT testing, calibration of equipment and equipment inventories are up to date.
- Adopt a proactive attitude to carbon reduction and energy saving measures.
- Maintain a technical support or research lab website with how-to guides, practical setup guides and relevant databases/records.

Other Duties:
- Take an active role in training and mentoring junior or newly appointed staff.
- Treat everyone with dignity and respect in line with current equality legislation.
- Any other duties as may reasonably be required.

Required Knowledge, Skills, Qualifications and Experience:
- A Bachelor's degree in genetics, molecular biology, cell biology, developmental biology or a related discipline.
- A master's degree in a relevant area is not required but is a plus.
- Demonstrated practical experience in Drosophila genetics, including maintaining fly stocks and performing genetic crosses.
- Strong molecular biology skills, particularly PCR, DNA extraction and molecular cloning.
- Knowledge of developmental biology (an understanding of germ cell development is a plus).
- Experience in fluorescence microscopy, preferably including confocal microscopy and image analysis.
- Good organisational skills, attention to detail and the ability to maintain accurate experimental records.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a research team.
- Positive service attitude and courtesy in dealing with others.
- Ability to organise and manage own workload and demonstrate flexibility in work practices.
- Ability to work under minimal supervision but function as part of a team.
- Knowledge of current legislation relevant to the role.
- Knowledge of current H&S policies and ability to uphold same.
- Proficiency in commonly used software packages.
- Understanding of the importance of equality and diversity in the workplace.