The college of north west london

Rothamsted Research
Job Description
Vacancy no:

Department:
Biological Chemistry and Crop Protection
Reports to:
Background:
Rothamsted Research is the largest agricultural research centre in the United Kingdom and almost certainly the oldest agricultural research station in the world. Its scientific research ranges from studies of genetics, biochemistry, cell biology and soil processes to investigations at the ecosystem and landscape scale. Rothamsted Research is now an independent research establishment undertaking research on behalf of BBSRC and other funders. Further information on Rothamsted Research can be obtained from our website at: A scientist is required to join a multi-disciplinary team working on the genetic and semiochemical basis of tick resistance in cattle in Brazil. The successful applicant will work on the isolation and identification of tick semiochemicals from resistant cattle, and will undertake analysis of identified semiochemicals form cattle that have been selected for genome-wide association analysis. Main purpose of job:
To undertake analytical chemistry studies on biological samples collected from cattle that differ in their tick load. Responsible for:
The extraction of biological samples collected from Brazilian cattle that differ in their tick load, the analysis of samples using high resolution gas chromatography/high performance liquid chromatography, and quantification of identified semiochemicals from cattle selected for genome-wide association analysis. The post holder will liaise closely with other members of the Chemical Ecology group at Rothamsted on structure elucidation, and will spend time in the laboratory of Dr Isabel Santos, University of Sao Paulo, facilitating the collection of biological samples from cattle, with continual monitoring and assistance throughout. Liaison with:
Rothamsted: Dr Mike Birkett (Line Manager, co-Principal Investigator), Professor John Pickett (co-Principal Investigator). Collaborations: Professor Stephen Bishop, Roslin Institute and Dr Isabel Santos, University of Sao Paulo. To prepare equipment and materials for semiochemical collection from cattle To analyse collected biological samples by gas chromatography/high performance liquid chromatography in small scale (semiochemical identification) and large scale (genome analysis) studies. Confirm the identity of identified semiochemicals using authentic samples Collate and analyse data from duties 5.1, 5.2 and 5.3 Characteristics of the post
 A full time fixed term contract for a period of 36 months  A starting salary within the range of £23,985 to £26,310 per annum  A minimum of 25 days annual leave plus bank holidays  Entitlement to sick pay in accordance with the Rothamsted Sick Pay Scheme  Option to join a company stakeholder pension to which you will be expected to contribute not less than 5% of your salary. Rothamsted Research
Person Specification and Short Listing Criteria
Minimum requirements of the post, with an indication of how these are to be assessed Post Ref:
Biological Chemistry and Crop Protection Education/Qualifications
Essential Desirable
How Tested?*
1.1. An MSc or degree in the chemical sciences or chemical ecology Experience/Knowledge
Essential Desirable
How Tested?*
2.1. Experience in the isolation of semiochemicals 2.2. Experience in the analysis of semiochemical samples 2.3. Experience in the operation and maintenance of modern 2.4. Experience/knowledge in the interpretation of spectroscopic data 2.6. Experience/knowledge of chemical signalling in vertebrates Skills/Abilities
Essential Desirable
How Tested?*
3.1. IT skills - for the preparation and presentation of data and basic Qualities/Genuine Occupational Requirements
Essential Desirable
How Tested?*
4.1. Ability to work independently and work as part of a team both in the 4.2. Ability to interpret results and draw appropriate conclusions 4.3. Flexibility in working hours as some experiments may require 4.4. Prepared to spend extended periods in Brazil * Evidence of criteria will be established from:
AF - Application form; IV – interview; Test - skills test/prepared question/presentation; Cert - certificate checked by interview panel

Source: http://rothamsted.ac.uk/careers/vacancies/FurtherParticulars/1280/1280%20further%20particulars.pdf