Senior Insect Technician
4 August 2025
£31,637–37,174
24 Month Fixed Term
The Opportunity
This post represents an exciting opportunity for an ambitious individual to join the lab of Dr. Tim Harvey-Samuel in Keele University's School of Life Sciences (see our lab here!) to help develop next-generation genetic control tools for the disease-vectoring mosquito Culex quinquefasciatus.
The successful candidate will be responsible for the maintenance of crucial Culex mosquito colonies at the brand-new Keele Insectary, alongside providing support to team members in other critical areas of the project e.g. mosquito dissection/tissue-sequencing/ genetic-engineering/experimental crossing and data collection.
There is also the opportunity for the successful candidate to receive training in and develop molecular skills, including in gene cloning and plasmid design. You will have a degree in a relevant subject or equivalent professional experience in a relevant field (e.g. biology/entomology/molecular biology).
Experience in working with/rearing insects is essential. Good knowledge of genetics/molecular background is also desirable. You will be able to demonstrate substantial capacity to work independently, problem solve, provide close attention to detail and operate collaboratively/cooperatively within a dynamic team environment.
The Benefits
The University recognises that its success depends upon the contribution and dedication of its talented staff. In return, we have a competitive benefits package available. Please note that the starting salary will typically be at the bottom of the pay scale shown above. The University is committed to operating flexible working practices wherever possible.
The University
Keele University is renowned for its exciting approach to higher education, innovative research, beautiful campus, strong community spirit and excellent student experience. With a turnover in excess of £170 million, over 12,500 students and a total staff of approximately 2000, the University provides high quality teaching across a wide range of academic and vocational subjects and promotes world-class research. Further information can be found at https://www.keele.ac.uk/about/ Technician Commitment Keele is one of more than 35 universities and research institutions from across the UK which have backed a pledge to support their technicians. The Technician Commitment is a sector-wide initiative led by the Science Council and supported by the Gatsby Foundation, which aims to help address key challenges facing technical staff working in research.
Five target areas have been identified, and the commitment will ensure greater visibility, recognition, career development and sustainability for technicians across all disciplines at Keele.
Keele University values equality and diversity across our workforce and to ensuring our staff community is reflective of the diversity of our student population. In support of these commitments the University welcomes applications from individuals of Black, Asian and ethnic minority backgrounds for all roles. Please note this appointment is subject to medical clearance by the University's Occupational Health provider.
How to Apply
For full post details and to find out more about working at Keele please visit: www.keele.ac.uk/vacancies Keele University employees wishing to apply should login to Employee Self Service and click on the 'View current vacancies' link.
Informal enquiries may be addressed to [email protected].
Applications to this address will not be accepted.
Interviews will be held on: 12th August 2025