Technical Specialist - RNA Diagnostics Remote

About the Role

We are seeking a highly motivated Technical Specialist - RNA Diagnostics Remote to join Dr. Isobella Honeyborne’s team within the Tissue Microenvironment Group at Cardiff University. This role is pivotal in supporting laboratory-based translational cancer research, specifically in the development of a novel molecular assay to grade prostate cancer severity from blood serum. As a Technical Specialist, you will play a crucial role in the systematic processing and analysis of a large cohort of biobanked clinical samples using RNA-based methodologies, contributing to a rigorous assay optimization and validation pipeline.

What You'll Do

• Contribute to the development, optimization, and validation of RNA-based diagnostic assays for prostate cancer.
• Process and analyze clinical serum samples to generate high-quality, reproducible data.
• Provide professional advice on assay development processes to internal and external stakeholders.
• Investigate and analyze issues in biospecimen handling related to assay performance.
• Collaborate with colleagues to enhance established processes and procedures.
• Supervise project teams and deliver training in assay development.
• Maintain meticulous records and ensure compliance with health and safety standards.
• Engage in administrative duties to support departmental objectives.

Requirements

• BSc in a biomedical science-related discipline or equivalent industrial experience.
• Demonstrable experience in molecular biology techniques, particularly RNA extraction and RT-qPCR.
• Strong technical accuracy and attention to detail in laboratory workflows.
• Ability to communicate complex information effectively to a diverse audience.
• Experience working with low-abundance RNA derived from clinical biospecimens is advantageous.

Nice to Have

• Postgraduate or professional qualification.
• Experience in a Higher Education environment.
• Familiarity with digital PCR technologies.
• Fluency in Welsh, both written and oral.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary ranging from £33,951 to £36,636 per annum.
• 45 days of annual leave, including bank holidays.
• Pension scheme and cycle to work scheme.
• Annual increments within the pay scale.
• Supportive and collaborative work environment with opportunities for professional development.
• Flexible working arrangements and a commitment to work-life balance.
• Inclusive workplace culture that values diversity and equality.

This Technical Specialist - RNA Diagnostics Remote position is full-time (35 hours per week), fixed term for 28 months, and available immediately. If you are passionate about contributing to cutting-edge cancer research and possess the required qualifications and experience, we encourage you to apply. For informal enquiries, please contact Dr. Isobella Honeyborne at honeybornei@cardiff.ac.uk.