Insect Production Technician – Maternity Cover (1 year contract)

Reporting to:  Team leader

Responsible for:  Mosquito production

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Purpose of the job

Oxitec is a pioneer in controlling insects that spread disease and damage crops. Through world class science it is tackling the major global challenges of keeping people healthy and increasing food production and it is doing so in a way that is sustainable, environmentally friendly and cost-effective. 

We are seeking a mosquito production technician to be part of our UK team dedicated to the mass production and maintenance of a genetically engineered mosquito population, that will be used in the field to supress the wild pest populations. This position is a hands-on role which involves carrying out the day-to-day production and maintenance of our mosquito colony to a standard protocol. The successful candidate will have an interest in insects, demonstrate good laboratory practice, and have good communication and organisation skills, in addition to being independent and self-motivated.

Responsibilities

The responsibilities of the role are to include:

• Carry out day-to-day production and maintenance of our mosquito colony to defined SOP protocols.
• Effectively plan and coordinate your work programme within the team, as outlined by the production manager.
• Develop technical entomological knowledge and skills through experience of a wide range of production techniques and attendance at team meetings.
• Take responsibility for designated pieces of equipment and tasks.
• Contribute to problem solving in consultation with team members.
• Contribute to safety performance by maintaining a clean and safe personal working environment. Comply with all safety procedures and HSE regulations.

Key Skills and Qualifications

• Experience of working in accordance with Good Laboratory Practice and Standard Operating Procedures
• Working knowledge of Insect production techniques is desirable.
• A recognised qualification in Biology/Science (eg National Diploma or Bachelor’s degree) would be an advantage.
• Experience of working with breeding insects in a commercial or research environment, or proven aptitude for this type of work.
• Proficient computer skills including Microsoft Excel.
• Good time management and organisational skills
• Good communication skills and an attention to detail.
• Ability to work both independently and within a team
• Applicants must have the right to work in the UK.

Benefits

Salary will be competitive dependent on experience, plus pension plan and 25 days annual leave.

Contact

To apply, please send a CV and covering letter to Sarah Coates at sarah.coates@oxitec.com.  For further information please email, phone 01235 832393 and also visit www.oxitec.com

Application deadline: 26th April 2017

Start date:  Mid May 2017