Mosquito Research Technician

Role Description

Department

This is an exciting opportunity to join an ongoing project funded by the Gates Foundation to develop “local” gene drives in the malaria vector mosquito Anopheles stephensi. These are genetic methods to manipulate target pest populations in a controlled, safe, reversible way (see Alphey, Ann Rev Entomol 2014 59:205-224 for more background on gene drives and applied insect synthetic biology).

Role

The core of the project is to develop and test components, modules and systems for gene drives in An. stephensi. Correspondingly, the main component of the role is insect genetic studies (development of new transgenic/gene edited strains, rearing and colony maintenance, phenotypic analysis, experimental design and statistical analysis). Additional responsibilities include communicating progress and data including assisting with manuscript preparation, and training/supervising other staff/students as required.

The post arises following additional funding for this ongoing project. Being part of an ongoing project, start date is negotiable but potentially immediately after completion of the recruitment process. 

Skills, Experience & Qualification needed

• A levels, HNC, or BSc in a relevant biological science, or equivalent qualification/experience
• Ability to perform complex technical tasks to a consistent high standard with attention to detail, conforming with relevant safety regulations and procedures
• Enthusiasm for working with insects
• Dependable, reliable and self-motivated; good interpersonal skills; able to work as part of a team

Interview date: To be confirmed

For informal enquiries: please contact Prof Luke Alphey (luke.alphey@york.ac.uk) 

Biology at York was the first UK Biology Department to achieve Athena Swan Gold Award.

The University strives to be diverse and inclusive  – a place where we can ALL be ourselves.

We particularly encourage applications from people who identify as Black, Asian or from a Minority Ethnic background, who are underrepresented at the University. 

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