View Vacancy -- Molecular Biologist (Genome Engineering) - MLC 2487

The Mary Lyon Centre at the Medical Research Council Harwell (MLC) is recruiting a Molecular Biologist to work as part of a genome engineering team and on a collaborative technology development programme in Genome Editing and Engineering. The successful candidate will work within the Molecular and Cellular Biology (MCB) group and in close collaboration with the Genotyping core facility. Their activity will span genome editing and gene targeting of the mouse genome at scale and functional validation of engineered alleles. 

The available post is based within established laboratories that have significant existing expertise in genome engineering in the generation and quality control of engineered mouse alleles. The successful candidate will work as part of a team and will be responsible for the design and validation of genome-engineered mouse models. They will advise genome editing service users. They will design genetically altered alleles, editing reagents and genotyping assays. They will work collaboratively with the MCB team and with the MLC groups responsible for mouse production, breeding and embryo manipulation. They will review the data for validation of new alleles. The post-holder will collaborate with other senior members in the group to analyse production data, refine lab processes and present findings in publications. They will work as part of a team and, once familiar with the service’s work, participate in the team’s programme of technology development. 

An understanding of gene structure and expertise in standard molecular biology techniques (PCR, sequencing) are required. Previous experience in the analysis of Sanger sequencing data is desirable. Specialist training in genome engineering can be provided.

Main Duties/Key Responsibilities:

• Design and validation of genome-edited mouse models
• Liaison with Genome Editing and Engineering Service users
• Coordination of molecular biology tasks in the MCB team and collaboration with other teams in the Mary Lyon Centre
• Review of data and production processes as part of a team
• Design of new engineered alleles
• Dissemination of knowledge in genome engineering, taking part in writing publications and teaching at specialist workshops

Working Relationships: 

• Design and validate genome-engineered alleles for the generation of models, working as part of a team with the other Molecular and Cellular Biology (MCB) team members, including direct reports, and reporting to the Head of MCB
• Work with scientists in the various research groups, to help design alleles for new mouse models
• Interface with the senior team of the Mary Lyon Centre, including the Director and Heads of Departments, to deliver key programmes and services 

Additional Information: 

Some flexible working patterns and paid weekend work may be required at the discretion of the supervisor.

Education/Qualifications/Training Required:

Essential:

• PhD in Biological Sciences, or equivalent, involving the use of molecular biology
• Understanding of gene structure/function

Previous Work Experience Required:

Essential:

• Use or generation of genetically altered cell lines or animals
• Extensive use of PCR-based techniques
• Previous experience in genotyping 

Desirable:

• Experience of Sanger sequencing or digital PCR
• Evidence of quality and customer-focused work

Knowledge and Experience:

Essential:

• Experience of several of the following Molecular and Cellular Biology techniques: gene targeting, genome editing, PCR, Sanger sequencing analysis, ddPCR, in vitro transcription
• Computer literacy is essential for the recording and communication of results 

Desirable:

• Working and adhering to standard operating procedures and experience of process analysis and refinement
• Experience in service provision

Personal skills/Behaviours/Qualities:

Essential:

• Organised and hard-working, with a strong eye for detail
• Able to work well as part of a team and develop leadership skills 

Desirable:

• Able to communicate clearly and concisely with a variety of scientists at all levels (from principal investigator to research assistants and animal technicians)

Equality & Diversity:

The MRC values the diverse skills and experience of its employees and is committed to achieving equality of treatment for all.  Our objectives are that all individuals shall have equal opportunities for employment and advancement on the basis of their skills, aptitudes and abilities.  The MRC is committed to the engagement and retention of the best possible talent and to creating an environment that encourages excellence in scientific research through good equality and diversity leadership and management. 

Corporate/Local Responsibilities & Requirements:

The post-holder must at all times carry out their responsibilities with due regard to the MRC’s:

• Code of Conduct
• Equality and Diversity policy
• Health and Safety policy
• Data Protection and Security policy 

Job descriptions should be reviewed on a regular basis and at the annual appraisal.  Any changes should be made and agreed between the post-holder and their manager. 

The above lists are not exhaustive and the post-holder is required to undertake such duties as may reasonably be requested within the scope of the post.  All employees are required to act professionally, cooperatively and flexibly in line with the requirements of the post and the MRC.