Job Summary Table of Research Technician

Research Technician Role: Advancing Immune Cell Research

Job Description Summary

A research technician position funded by the Medical Research Council to support groundbreaking immune cell biology research using super-resolution microscopy techniques to understand how cell surface organization affects immune response thresholds in health and disease states.

The Science Behind the Research Technician Role

This research position offers a unique opportunity to be part of cutting-edge scientific exploration at the intersection of immunology and advanced microscopy. The research program utilizes super-resolution microscopy to meticulously compare the organization of activating, co-stimulatory, and inhibitory receptors on immune cells. The ultimate goal is to establish concrete connections between changes in cell surface organization and the critical thresholds that govern immune response activation or suppression.

Understanding these cellular mechanisms could potentially unlock novel therapeutic approaches for treating cancer and autoimmune diseases, making this research not just scientifically fascinating but clinically significant. As a Research Technician in this prestigious laboratory, you’ll contribute directly to work that may transform our understanding of the immune system and lead to breakthrough treatments.

Key Responsibilities of the Research Technician

• Laboratory Management: Maintain smooth operations of the laboratory, including ordering essential reagents and supplies to ensure research continuity
• Technical Procedures: Isolate specific immune cell types from peripheral blood samples using specialized techniques
• Experimental Execution: Perform and troubleshoot experiments related to immune cell biology using advanced methodologies
• Equipment Maintenance: Ensure proper maintenance, calibration, and operation of sophisticated research equipment, particularly microscopy systems
• Training and Support: Teach proper equipment usage and experimental techniques to other laboratory members
• Collaboration: Liaise with research collaborators and partners to coordinate sample sharing and experimental planning
• Team Contribution: Work closely with postdoctoral researchers and students in a multidisciplinary environment
• Protocol Development: Assist in optimizing and establishing new experimental protocols as research evolves
• Student Supervision: Help supervise Masters and undergraduate project students during their research rotations

Qualifications and Skills for Research Technician Success

The ideal Research Technician candidate will possess significant experience in human immune cell biology and/or high-level microscopy. Strong verbal and written communication skills are essential, as is a foundational knowledge of immunology, cell biology, or microscopy techniques.

The position requires someone who can develop and apply new concepts independently with minimal supervision while bringing a creative approach to problem-solving. The successful candidate will demonstrate passion and determination to overcome scientific challenges along with exceptional organizational abilities.

Experience in any of the following areas would be particularly valuable: – Human immune cell isolation and culture techniques – Super-resolution microscopy methods – Cell signaling studies – Immunological assays – Laboratory management practices

Benefits and Perks of Working at Imperial College London

• Competitive Compensation: Sector-leading salary and comprehensive remuneration package
• Generous Leave: 39 days’ annual leave to support work-life balance
• Financial Security: Access to excellent pension schemes for long-term planning
• Workplace Wellness: On-site leisure facilities to promote physical health and wellbeing
• Commuter Support: Interest-free season ticket loan schemes for London travel
• Cycling Incentives: Cycle-to-work scheme encouraging sustainable commuting
• Family Support: Generous family leave packages accommodating various life stages
• Flexible Working: Flexible working policy from day one of employment
• Personal Development: Opportunities for continued professional growth and learning
• Global Impact: Chance to contribute to world-changing research with real-world applications

Company Overview: Imperial College London

Imperial College London stands as a globally recognized top ten university where scientific innovation drives world-changing impact. With a vibrant community comprising 22,000 students and 8,000 staff members collaborating across nine London campuses and an extensive global network, Imperial consistently pushes the boundaries of scientific discovery.

The institution tackles some of humanity’s most pressing challenges, from global health crises and climate change to artificial intelligence advancements and business leadership development. By joining Imperial, you become part of a legacy of excellence and contribute meaningfully to shaping our collective future.

Research Technician in a Dynamic Research Environment

This full-time, fixed-term position offers an exceptional opportunity to join a highly skilled multidisciplinary team studying immune cell biology in both health and disease contexts. The research involves fascinating comparative work examining signal transduction and integration from activating and inhibitory receptors on human immune cells.

Daily activities will include significant teamwork and interdisciplinary collaboration with other laboratory members, allied scientists within Imperial College, and external research partners. The project blends cutting-edge microscopy techniques with immunological investigation to potentially transform our understanding of immune system regulation.

Company Culture: Inclusive Excellence at Imperial

At Imperial College London, the organizational culture centers on equality of opportunity, elimination of discrimination, and creation of an inclusive working environment for all. The institution actively encourages applications from diverse backgrounds, communities, and industries, committed to building teams with varied skills, experiences, and abilities.

The foundational values guiding all work at Imperial include respect, collaboration, excellence, integrity, and innovation. Every community member is expected to embody and demonstrate these principles in their professional conduct and research endeavors.

Career Growth Opportunities in Scientific Research

This Research Technician position provides valuable exposure to advanced research methodologies and techniques at the forefront of immunological science. Working alongside distinguished researchers in a world-class institution offers unparalleled opportunities for professional development and career advancement within the scientific community.

The skills and experience gained in this role—particularly in super-resolution microscopy and immune cell biology—are highly transferable across the biomedical research sector, potentially opening doors to future positions in academic research, biotechnology, pharmaceutical development, or clinical laboratory science.

Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging

Imperial College London is firmly committed to creating a diverse and inclusive workplace where all individuals feel valued and empowered to contribute. The institution actively works toward equality of opportunity, elimination of discrimination, and fostering an inclusive environment where diverse perspectives enhance research quality and innovation.

Applications are welcomed from all backgrounds, communities, and industries as part of Imperial’s commitment to building teams with diverse skills, experiences, and abilities. This approach not only strengthens the research enterprise but creates a more vibrant, creative, and productive academic community.

Application Process for the Research Technician Position

1. Review the job description thoroughly to ensure alignment with your skills and experience
2. Prepare your application materials including CV, cover letter, and references
3. Submit your application through Imperial College London’s online application system
4. If shortlisted, participate in the interview process to discuss your qualifications further

Note that the institution reserves the right to close the advertisement prior to the stated closing date if a high volume of applications is received. Early submission is therefore advisable to avoid disappointment.

Application Deadline for Research Technician Role

The application deadline for this Research Technician position is June 19, 2025. However, early application is encouraged as the posting may close before this date if sufficient qualified applications are received.

How to Apply for this Position

For more information and to apply, please visit the Imperial College London jobs portal. For informal inquiries about the position, interested candidates may contact Professor Daniel Davis via Tika Masters at g.masters@imperial.ac.uk.

Should you encounter any technical issues during the application process, support is available by emailing support.jobs@imperial.ac.uk.

Starting Date and Additional Information

The anticipated start date for this position is August/September 2025. Appointments will typically be made at the beginning of the salary scale, with adjustments based on relevant experience.

This position requires on-site presence at the South Kensington Campus, as specified in the job details.

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