View Vacancy -- Van Driver - PNAC - Biological Services Group - LMB 2076

The MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB) is one of the birthplaces of modern molecular biology and has played an important role in the development of many new techniques, most notably protein crystallography, cryo-electron microscopy, DNA sequencing and monoclonal antibodies. The LMB has a clear goal of understanding biological processes at the molecular level, with the ultimate aim of using this knowledge to tackle specific problems in human health and disease. We aim to tackle difficult, long-term problems, which often require investment over many years.

There are four scientific Divisions - Structural Studies, Protein and Nucleic Acid Chemistry, Cell Biology and Neurobiology. However, scientific collaboration between the different Divisions is extensive. Scientists are well supported by excellent scientific facilities and by the LMB Operations Group which maintains the core infrastructure and services of the institute.

The LMB provides an unsurpassed environment for both new and established researchers. Scientists are drawn to the LMB from all over the world, thus creating a lively and international community for the exchange of ideas and technical innovation.

Overall purpose: 

The purpose of this position is to support the on-going animal-based research located within MRC Laboratory animal facilities, which include the Ares Building on the Babraham Research Campus and the Laboratory of Molecular Biology (LMB), on the Cambridge Biomedical Campus. Primarily providing transport between the facilities, whilst maintaining the welfare of animals in transit.

Main duties/ Key responsibilities:

•    Driving a van in order to transport animals, researchers, samples and other items, primarily between Cambridge based research facilities, whilst ensuring their smooth transition, safety and welfare, with due regard to the time sensitive nature of the work.
•    Communicating with technicians, researchers and other staff via e-mail, telephone and face to face.
•    Unloading and loading samples, animals and mail and delivering to the appropriate drop off points.
•    Accurate record keeping and management of the van diary.
•    Responsibility for maintaining general stocks within the LMB facilities. 
•    On occasions, you may be called upon to assist the animal technicians with non-specialized tasks such as maintaining the high standard of cleanliness within the LMB unit. 
•    Respond to problems as they arise, seeking advice where appropriate.
•    Ensure faulty/damaged equipment is reported urgently to effect rapid replacement/repair.
•    Ensure high standards of animal welfare are maintained.
•    Organise and prioritise your own workload effectively.
•    Any other appropriate duties as required.

Working relationships: 

You will be a member of a small team, under the overall management of the Facility Manager, based at the Ares building or the LMB.  

You will primarily work alongside Biological Services Group colleagues and scientific researchers as well as with external contacts e.g. other research institutes.

You will be required to work effectively in a team as well as independently, form good professional working relationships and follow instruction.

Additional information:

Basic training in the legal requirements associated with working with research animals, and animal handling will be provided.

Education / qualifications / training required: 

Essential: Full driving licence.

Desirable: 
•    Minimum of 5 GCSE’s grades A-C or equivalent relevant experience.
•    Animal care qualifications.

Previous work experience required: 

Essential: 
•    Ability to conduct basic vehicle checks to ensure that oil levels, tyre pressures and fuel levels are acceptable.
•    The ability to drive carefully, responsibly, safely and in accordance to road traffic legislation.
•    Experience of working as part of a team.

Desirable: 
•    Experience of driving a small van and making deliveries whilst adhering to strict timescales.
•    Knowledge of the local area.
•    Previous experience of caring for or working with animals.

Knowledge and experience: 

•    Must be able to plan and schedule jobs within specific timeframes
•    Ability to work independently, problem solve and prioritise daily work schedule.
•    Good verbal and written communication skills
•    Basic computer skills, especially email communication.

Personal skills / behaviours / qualities: 

•    Ability to adhere to the legislation regarding transportation of research animals.
•    Excellent time management and good interpersonal skills.  
•    Be responsible, conscientious and hard-working.
•    Have empathy with animals.
•    Must be able to demonstrate a ‘can-do’ approach.
•    Be capable and flexible to work independently and as part of a team.  
•    Good organisational skills.
•    A reasonable level of fitness is required as manual handling of boxes containing mouse cages will form a daily part of the role.