Research Technician

The Role

This post holder will provide laboratory support on delivering tasks described as part of the research project investigating novel vaccination in farmed freshwater Pangasius catfish species (https://www.stir.ac.uk/news/2024/october-2024-news/770k-project-will-tackle-antimicrobial-resistance-in-aquaculture/).

The successful candidate will work with the research team, including the project PI (Prof Mags Crumlish https://www.stir.ac.uk/people/255754), post-doctoral researcher (Dr Batuhan Coskun) and core laboratory staff.

We are seeking a highly motivated technician to support the microbiology and molecular biology researcher performed in the project, located in the Institute of Aquaculture laboratories.

Please note this role requires an immediate start – apply today to begin as soon as possible.

Key Duties and Responsibilities

Core Activities

• Preparation, processing and tracking of biological samples generated during sampling, ensuring accurate labelling and storage
• Preparation of microbiological media, buffers, and reagents
• Performing viability, purity and species level identification of bacteria
• Assisting with antibiotic sensitivity testing in vitro
• Performing DNA/RNA extraction and routine molecular assays by following SOPs
• Maintaining detailed laboratory records to ensure traceability

Maintenance & Management of Work Environment

• Comply with Health & Safety procedures affecting self and others

Analysis, Reporting & Documentation

• Carry out basic interpretation of data/test results and present findings accurately

Planning & Organising

• Plan own work schedule to meet work demands but refer to more senior colleagues for prioritising and scheduling

Resource Management

• Replenish stocks of consumables/stores of basic consumables to meet work requirements

People Management

• May provide informal support to students in the use of equipment and techniques

Qualifications

• Vocational qualifications (N/SVQ 2/3, ONC or equivalent)

Knowledge & Experience

• Work experience in a relevant role or a school education to standard grade or equivalent plus substantial, relevant work experience.

Skills & Attributes

• Competence with laboratory equipment and technical tools
• Work scheduling and prioritising
• Good written and oral communication and documentation skills
• Consistency, accuracy/precision and following agreed methods
• Flexibility and enthusiasm
• Observance of Health & Safety regulations

Full time
Fixed term until 31 December 2026

The closing date for applications is midnight on Thursday 28 May 2026.
Interviews are expected to take place on Friday 5 June 2026.

The University will pay a supplement per annum pro rata with effect from 01 November 2025, to align with the Real Living Wage (RLW) which equates to £25,178 p.a. This RLW supplement will be reviewed annually to take account of future increases and RLW rates.

There is an expectation that work will be undertaken in the UK.

This role is not eligible for sponsorship. Applicants require to have existing right to work in the UK.

The University of Stirling recognises that a diverse workforce benefits and enriches the work, learning and research experiences of the entire campus and greater community. We are committed to removing barriers and welcome applications from those who would contribute to further diversification of our staff and ensure that equality, diversity and inclusion is woven into the substance of the role. We strongly encourage applications from people from diverse backgrounds including gender, identity, race, age, class, and ethnicity.

The Institute of Aquaculture is a division of the Faculty of Natural Sciences (FNS) which also encompasses the Divisions of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Computing Science and Mathematics, and Psychology. FNS is a distinctive academic arena where new fundamental understandings of the complex and challenging inter-relationships between human behaviours, technologies, biological and environmental systems are created, explored and tested. The most recent national assessment of research - REF2021 -confirmed that 80% of our research is classed as world leading and internationally excellent. It is supported through UK Research Councils, European Union and a range of research charities We work with businesses and public service organisations both at home and overseas to achieve direct and positive outcomes for society across a range of critical problems. Substantial investment aligned with the City, Region, and Growth deals is supporting major new infrastructure developments linked to the Faculty including Scotland’s International Environment Centre and the National Aquaculture Technology and Innovation Hub.

The Institute of Aquaculture’s mission is to tackle food security, hunger and sustainability through aquaculture – and to be a global leader in aquatic food resilience in the face of climate change. For 50 years the Institute has played a leading role in research and teaching related to all aspects of aquaculture. Today, the Institute is home to the world’s largest group of scientists, leading research on farmed and natural fish stocks, shellfish and aquatic plants and has established an international reputation for teaching, research, technological innovation and consultancy, reflecting decades of collaborative work with governments, regulatory bodies, industry, fish farmers, supply chains and alumni. Since its foundation the Institute has worked extensively with overseas partners in Europe, Asia, Africa and the Americas. There are particularly strong relations with research and commercial organisations in Thailand, Vietnam, Bangladesh, China, Malaysia and Indonesia.

The University of Stirling is committed to providing education with a purpose and carrying out research which has a positive impact on communities across the globe. Driven by our mission to be the difference, we are addressing real issues, providing solutions, and helping to shape society.

The University of Stirling is committed to providing education with a purpose and carrying out research which has a positive impact on communities across the globe. Driven by our mission to be the difference, we are addressing real issues, providing solutions, and helping to shape society.

The University has more than 17,500 students globally and employs 1,500 staff, with more than 140 nationalities represented within our community. Our campus environment is ranked first in the UK and top 10 in the world, and our sports facilities rank first in the UK and second in the world (International Student Barometer 2024, wave two), reflecting our long-standing designation as Scotland’s University for Sporting Excellence.

We were shortlisted for University of the Year 2024 at the Times Higher Education Awards and are proud holders of a Silver institutional award from the Athena Swan Charter, in recognition of our commitment to advancing gender equality. We have an overall five-star rating in the QS Stars University Ratings and are ranked top 30 in the UK for postgraduate teaching and learning (Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey 2024). In recognition of our excellence in business education, we are accredited by AACSB International.

Eighty-seven per cent of our research has an outstanding or very considerable impact on society, with more than 80% rated either world leading or internationally excellent (Research Excellence Framework 2021), and we are ranked among the top 100 institutions in the world for our contribution to meeting 10 of the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals. We have twice been recognised with a Queen's Anniversary Prize; for our Institute for Social Marketing and Health (2014) and our Institute of Aquaculture (2019).

Alongside partners, the University spearheads the £214 million Stirling and Clackmannanshire City Region Deal – which will deliver three major University-led projects: the National Aquaculture Technology and Innovation Hub, Scotland’s International Environment Centre, and the Intergenerational Living Innovation Hub. We are also a central partner in the Forth Valley University College Health Partnership.

www.stir.ac.uk @stiruni