Research Scientist

JOB DESCRIPTION Job Title: Research ScientistReporting to: Senior ScientistLocation: Milton Park, UK_______________________________________________________________Purpose of the jobOxitec is a pioneer in controlling insects that spread disease and damage crops . Through world class science it is tackling the major global challenges of keeping people healthy and increasing food production and it is doing so in a way that is sustainable, environmentally friendly and cost effective. This position is required to ensure the progression of this project, by providing technical knowledge, training and direct support to fellow scientists.ResponsibilitiesAs a research scientist you will be directly involved in the rearing and maintenance of mosquito colonies. You will be responsible for designing and carrying out experiments to develop and test the properties of new transgenic lines. You will also be responsible for recording data, analysing it using statistical packages and reporting your results.Specific responsibilities of the role are to include:Scientific· Designing experiments to address scientific questions under the guidance of your line manager and/or work package lead· Accountable for running experiments according to agreed protocols, to facilitate organisational learning· Maintain insect colonies for experimental requirements· Carry out literature reviews to guide experimental testing· Data collection and analysis including statistical analysis· Writing of internal study reports for review· Presenting and communicating dataQuality management· Writing and updating SOPs and risk assessments· Assisting with maintaining up to date health and safety records· Observing daily processes and identifying points for improvement· Training staff as required in line with training records· Follow Health & Safety and containment requirements for all activitiesGeneral· Cleaning and organising work areas· Assisting with laboratory maintenance (reporting and problem-solving facilities issues, accompanying site engineers etc)· Assisting project leads to ensure facility is appropriately equipped and functional to meet project requirements· Have a clear understanding of the commercial impact of the work and responsibilities and strive to optimise performance (including cost of running poorly designed experiments, ways to improve efficiency of processes, areas for cost savings etc)· Provide occasional weekend support as part of a rota with the R&D team· May or may not have line management responsibilities, which include: recruiting, inducting, Professional Development Records, developing and nurturing staff, ensuring that the team adheres to safety and containment requirements· May or may not be required to manage daily work of other colleaguesKey Qualifications and Skills· Hold a BSc degree and demonstrates technical abilities appropriate for the role· Must be diligent and organised, with data recording abilities· Have an attention to detail· Able to work independently and within a team· Good written English and oral communication skills and a diligent attitude· Competent in MS Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook and preferably in R/R StudioKey Experience· A track record of working successfully both in a team and individually· Experience of working in a biological sciences laboratory is essential, insect rearing expertise is desirableBehaviour· Shows initiative· Adaptability and flexibility· Strong and willing communicator· Ability to work in a team and independently· Attention to detail· Be receptive to feedback