Research Associate in Mass Spectrometry

Research Associate in Mass Spectrometry

University of Oxford - Department of Chemistry

Oxford, United Kingdom

GBP 35,681 - 41,636 per year

The role

We are seeking to appoint a Research Assistant to work in Professor James McCullagh’s Group within the Department of Chemistry linked to the research theme Chemistry at the interface with Biology and Medicine. The applicant will work on multiple research projects, with focus on a newly initiated, cross-departmental collaboration, involving sample preparation and data analysis using matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionisation-time of flight mass spectrometry (MALDI-TOF) and LC-MS, related to vaccine analysis.

The applicant will work alongside experienced doctoral and post-doctoral researchers in the Department of Chemistry, closely liaising with colleagues in the Department of Biochemistry and the Nuffield Department of Medicine. They will also work with stakeholders from across academia and industry with international links. The role will develop skills in project management, data analysis and presentation of data within the context of cross-disciplinary research.

Responsibilities

• Assist the group to conduct research projects and ensure milestones are met, in particular laboratory requirements and administration;
• Organise, maintain and validate mass spectrometry methods;
• Develop and perform comprehensive assays, preparing sample for mass spectrometry analysis including MALDI target plates and LC-MS samples;
• Analyse sample and subsequent mass spectrometry data (MALDI-MS and LC-MS);
• Prepare written and verbal reports from these analyses and data;
• Manage research and administrative activities and responsibilities for a number of projects simultaneously and plan timelines to meet deadlines;
• Maintain stocks of essential items, maintain laboratory equipment and databases, and order laboratory items as required;
• Contribute to scientific reports and journal articles and the presentation of data and research;
• Coordinate with group members to ensure the smooth running of the Research Facility;
• Be in close contact with other members of the research group team (phone, video, email, in person) across multiple departments;
• Undertake other duties, appropriate to the job grade, as required by the Director of the Mass Spectrometry Research Facility.

Selection criteria

Essential selection criteria

• Hold at least an undergraduate degree in chemistry, biochemistry or a related analytical field, including gaining experience of generic laboratory skills such as pipetting, solvent preparation and weighing chemicals;
• Previous experience working in a mass spectrometry or other analytical lab linked to sample analysis;
• The ability to work proactively, to create your own daily agenda and to communicate progress on projects effectively at meetings;
• Be able to keep detailed laboratory records and report on progress at regular;
• Have good verbal and written communications skills including strong interpersonal skills to work efficiently with others;
• Show an ability to work supportively in a laboratory environment, and to supervise student’s laboratory work and exchange of information and skills with co-workers;
• Be computer literate and highly organised with methodical working practices.

Desirable selection criteria

• Experience in the operation of mass spectrometry systems including those coupled to separation systems such as LC-MS and/or MALDI-MS (in particular Bruker Biotyper or Autoflex for the latter);
• Experienced in mass spectrometry sample analysis and data processing;
• Experience of statistical analysis in relation to mass spectrometry data (especially univariate and/or multivariate statistical tools);
• Experience in one or more of the following: metabolomics, tissue culture, Seahorse analysis.