Senior Research Technician - Department of Cardiovascular Sciences - 107219 - Grade 5

This fixed-term Research Technician role supports sickle cell disease research using animal models, intravital imaging microscopy, histology, and cell isolation. Responsibilities include providing technical expertise, advising on procedures, resolving experimental issues, and potentially supervising junior staff. A strong understanding of relevant techniques, experience with animal handling and models, and a relevant degree or equivalent experience are required.

• You will use your in-depth knowledge of methods and procedures to advise on techniques and experimental procedures being used by researchers and/or students. This will involve communicating with colleagues at a range of levels and inexperienced students
• You will need to be able to diagnose and resolve problems and suggest solutions in regard to techniques and experiments
• Carry out specialist technical and experimental procedures which will need you to use your judgment to assess the correct technique to use, and to consider how these may be improved, referring to your manager for approval on any proposed changes
• The role holder will provide support for the research undertaken by Dr Rayes using a variety of techniques to include, but not exclusively:
• Animal models of sickle cell disease
• Intravital imaging microscopy Performing experiments and imaging the brain in particular
• Intravital imaging microscopy
• Performing experiments and imaging the brain in particular
• Histology Fixation, sectioning and staining of both paraffin and frozen samples Immunohistochemistry staining
• Fixation, sectioning and staining of both paraffin and frozen samples
• Immunohistochemistry staining
• Data handling and management
• You will use your in-depth knowledge of methods and procedures to advise on techniques and experimental procedures being used by researchers and/or students
• Work to deadlines imposed by the PI or nominee and provide consistent results delivery
• Communicate results to colleagues
• You will be responsible for assisting in managing the experimental laboratories.
• You will need to maintain accurate records of all techniques and experimental procedures you carry out, and for any other research activities you may be involved in including methodology and results
• Ensure compliance with legislation relevant to the area of research activity
• Comply with and promote the operating procedures for the area, including the classification, labelling and packaging of substances and mixtures regulation
• You may contribute to internal and external audit procedures and to regulatory inspections

• Use of AI in applications: We want to understand your genuine interest in the role and for the written elements of your application to accurately reflect your own communication style.
• Applications that rely too heavily on AI tools can appear generic and lack the detail we need to assess your skills and experience.
• Positive service attitude and shows courtesy in dealing with others.
• Understands the importance of equality and diversity in the workplace
• Ability to identify and respond to equality and diversity issues in line with relevant policies and procedures
• Ability to work under minimal supervision but function as part of a team.
• Proficiency in commonly used software packages.
• Extensive relevant workplace experience, equivalent professional qualification or degree in an appropriate subject
• In-depth practical knowledge of relevant technical and scientific methods.
• Knowledge of current legislation relevant to the role
• Knowledge of current H&S policies and ability to uphold same.
• Ability to organise and manage own work load and demonstrate flexibility in terms of work practices/requirements.
• Further particulars can be found here
• Further particulars can be found
• GCSE level 2 (A*- C) or equivalent level 2 qualification in mathematics and English.
• Extensive proven experience of similar laboratory based work, together with familiarity with a wide range of laboratory equipment
• Ability to work with animal models
• Understanding of Animals (Scientific Procedures) Act 1986
• Understanding of the Human Tissue Act and working to GLP standards
• Informal enquiries to Carol Benham, email: c.a.benham@bham.ac.uk