Research Technician

We are seeking an enthusiastic Research Technician to work within a vibrant
research team headed by Professor David Hodson at the Oxford Centre for
Diabetes Endocrinology and Metabolism (OCDEM) on studies related to type 1
diabetes (https://www.rdm.ox.ac.uk/people/david-hodson).





The postholder will contribute to a Steve Morgan Foundation Type 1 Diabetes
Grand Challenge, which is led by Oxford together with partners at the
University of Birmingham and FMP Leibniz Berlin. The overarching aims of the
Grand Challenge are to: 1) produce better functioning stem cell-derived beta
cells to ensure long-lasting insulin-independence in people living with type 1
diabetes (T1D); 2) precision deliver therapy to the pancreatic beta cell
surface that can fend off immune attack in the early stages of T1D; and 3)
coax alpha cells, which survive immune destruction during T1D, to convert into
insulin-positive cells to provide a new supply of beta cells without the need
for transplantation. To allow this, we will target two surface receptors,
which are highly expressed by alpha cells and beta cells. The major goal is to
help improve stem cell-derived beta cell survival and function, allow
immunotherapy to work better for longer with fewer side effects, and provide
more evidence that endogenous beta cells can be regenerated, together making
beta cell replacement a possibility for more people living with T1D.





Although full training will be given in a variety of techniques, the person
appointed will be expected to work independently on most tasks or in
collaboration with the support of colleagues. Methods will include the
preparation and analysis of samples for hormone secretion, RNA extraction,
PCR, cloning and optical imaging.





Previous experience of working in a research environment, good time management
and communication skills are essential for the role. Applicants will need to
be able to communicate clearly within a multi-disciplinary team and have basic
knowledge of biochemistry and metabolism.,





The position, funded by a Steve Morgan Foundation Type 1 Diabetes Grand
Challenge, is full time and fixed term until 28th February 2029. The position
will be based at OCDEM, Churchill Hospital, Headington, Oxford.





For informal enquiries, please contact Supprina Thebe at
ocdem.personnel@ndm.ox.ac.uk. Please quote reference 172063 on all
correspondence. As part of your formal online application, you will be
required to upload a CV and supporting statement. Only applications received
before midday on 30/04/2024 can be considered. Interviews are scheduled for
21/05/2024.