Senior Research Technician in Ancient DNA and Palaeoproteomics

Role Description

Department

The Department of Archaeology at the University of York is ranked 18th in the world in the QS rankings. We are based in both the King’s Manor in the heart of the historic city of York and at Heslington West campus. Our vibrant community consists of over 90 staff and over 600 students, with growing international representation. We carry out international, impact-oriented and interdisciplinary teaching and research of the highest quality through our strong network of partnerships. The student experience is of paramount importance to the Department and we maintain a high level of student satisfaction.  Equality, diversity and inclusion are at our core and we promote a collegial environment in which staff and students feel supported and valued.

Role

The Research Technician manages the day-to-day organisation and operation of the DNA and proteomic laboratories housed within the BioArCh research facility. The technician will undertake experiments with limited oversight from lecturers, thus independence is highly valued for the role. Likewise, the technician will lead some data analyses, such as interpretation of mass spectra or preprocessing ancient DNA datasets. The technician will provide guidance, training and technical support to project students, postgraduates, academics and research staff within and external to the University. As the manager of the laboratories, the technician will be responsible for ordering consumables, keeping the laboratories in working order, ensuring safe practices, liaising with suppliers and university groups, shipping and receiving samples, and related tasks.

Skills, Experience & Qualifications needed

• Degree, or equivalent relevant experience
• Broad understanding and in-depth knowledge of specialism of the relevant safety legislation & regulations
• Knowledge and understanding of scientific research methodology
• Knowledge and understanding of the specific challenges of archaeological science, i.e. how methodologies must be adapted for ancient biomolecules
• Thorough, up-to-date theoretical and practical knowledge of ancient DNA methodologies
• Proven track record in the application of the technical skills in a laboratory
• Proven ability to work independently with initiative, using problem solving and analytical skills
• Excellent IT and analytical skills using a range of specialist software
• Ability to present complex ideas in a clear and concise manner
• Competent in the operation and maintenance of equipment in a technical specialism
• Ability to analyse and interpret complex data and to design and deliver training on specialism
• A high standard of written and verbal communication skills in English
• Excellent time-management skills; ability to prioritise own work in response to deadlines
• Ability to contribute to specification documentation for the procurement and service of the complex equipment
• Competent in statistical and mathematical methods for analysis, and able to provide scientific data in written format for publications
• Demonstrable in-depth experience in the relevant specialism
• Experience of working within an academic or research environment
• Experience of working on own initiative
• Experience of training others in lab techniques and use of complex equipment

Interview date: to be confirmed

For informal enquiries: please contact Nathan Wales on nathan.wales@york.ac.uk

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. 

We offer family friendly, flexible working arrangements, with forums and inclusive facilities to support our staff. #EqualityatYork