Mass Spectrometry Research Assistant

Vacancy Reference Number

157890

Organisation:

Oxford University

Closing Date

1 Jun 2022

Salary

£29,614 - £35,326

Address

Centre for Medicines Discovery, New Biochemistry Building, South Parks Road, Oxford, OX1 3QU

Duration

3-year contract (renewable)

Applications are invited for a Research Assistant in Mass Spectrometry to join the Centre for Medicines Discovery, University of Oxford.

You will be responsible to assist in the provision of mass spectrometry analyses to CMD researchers, includes providing training on using the equipment and troubleshooting problems. You will carefully analyse data with minimal supervision and communicate the results via email and face-to-face interactions, along with the contact and interact with service engineers independently. You will be responsible for the maintenance of mass spectrometer and HPLC instrumentation, supplies and consumables independently following training. You will have the responsibility of support the research of groups in CMD by working with colleagues in a professional and collaborative manner.

It is essential that you hold a Degree in Biology, Chemistry or related subject, together with experience in mass spectrometry. It is required to have a responsible and methodical approach to laboratory work and record keeping. The ability to work independently and effectively as part of a team is also essential. You will need to be familiarity with good laboratory practices and safety requirements.

The role:
The CMD Mass Spectrometry Small Research Facility provides a comprehensive protein analysis service
to over 200 research scientists in both Oxford and externally using methods available nowhere else. We
are now seeking a highly motivated individual for the combined role of Mass Spectrometry research
assistant in addition to general lab management, accounting, data collation and customer interfacing.
Working under the supervision of the laboratory head you will become involved in all aspects of service
provision after appropriate training. These include, but are not limited to, protein identification, post-
translational modification analysis, intact mass analysis, native mass spectrometry, ion mobility, protein-
protein cross-linking, peptide quantitation and small molecule analysis.

The laboratory is already well-equipped with TIMS-TOF, QTOF, TOF and ion trap mass spectrometers
capable of accurate mass, high m/z and fragmentation analyses, and uHPLC systems capable of high-
throughput complex separations. The role will involve operation, programming, maintenance and trouble-
shooting of all instrument types. You will also be involved in sample preparation, data analysis, use of mass
spectrometry databases and the CMD’s laboratory information management system. In addition, you will
help to maintain laboratory infrastructure and consumables, train users, and actively assist collaborators
with whom you will develop close working relationships.

Previous experience in mass spectrometry is essential. Experience of protein characterisation is desirable,
although full training in novel methodologies will be provided. You will be highly organised, with experience
in a laboratory environment in a similar role. The office-based work will include writing experimental reports,
estimating work and sample running costs as well as tracking of project status and ordering of
consumables. You must have a proactive and adaptable approach to work and willingness to tackle a
variety of tasks and projects in parallel. Excellent record keeping and careful methodological work skills are
essential as well as a very organized and structured work ethic.

Responsibilities:
You will;
 Assist in the provision of mass spectrometry analyses to CMD researchers, includes providing
training on using the equipment and troubleshooting problems.
 Carefully analyse data with minimal supervision and communicate the results via email and face-to-
face interactions.
 Maintain mass spectrometer and HPLC instrumentation, supplies and consumables independently
following training.
 Contact and interact with service engineers independently.
 Maintain data to a high standard and prepare usage statistics for reports and SRF charging.
 Assist the Mass Spectrometry Head with new method development projects, analyse data and
contribute towards publications.
 Suggest improvements to processes and help with implementation of these to improve workflow and
output.
 Support the research of groups in CMD by working with colleagues in a professional and
collaborative manner.
 Maintain an electronic laboratory notebook according to CMD guidelines and submit data into our
electronic database.
 Communicate effectively with technicians, postdocs and students on a day-to-day basis, and formally
via written reports, and orally via presentations as required.
 To carry out any other relevant duties as may reasonably be associated with the post and which may
be required from time to time.
 Participate in and support the public engagement and widening access activities of the Department
and the University. This is anticipated to be not more than 2 days per year.
 Undertake mandatory training as required by the University, Division and Department. The specific
list of training courses may change from time-to-time, in response to both legal and internal University
requirements.
Selection criteria
Essential
 Degree level qualification in Biology, Chemistry or related subject
 Previous experience in mass spectrometry
 Responsible and methodical approach to laboratory work and record keeping
 Ability to work independently
 Active interest in undertaking and supporting scientific research
 Ability to work on several projects in parallel
 Ability to work effectively as part of a team
 Familiarity with good laboratory practices and safety requirements
Desirable
 Previous laboratory experience in a research or commercial setting.
 Previous experience in protein characterisation and sample preparation for mass spectrometry
 Familiarisation with Masshunter, Biotools, Mascot, MSQuant, PEAKS or Merox software

Further Information

Please refer to the Job description/Role Profile on the following webpage: https://my.corehr.com/pls/uoxrecruit/erq_jobspec_version_4.display_form?p_company=10&p_internal_external=E&p_display_in_irish=N&p_process_type=&p_applicant_no=&p_form_profile_detail=&p_display_apply_ind=Y&p_refresh_search=Y&p_recruitment_id=157890

Contact Details

Contact Person : Grace Keeble
Contact Phone : 0186587775
Contact Email : recruitment@ndm.ox.ac.uk
Closing Date & Time : 01-Jun-2022 12:00