ic benefits. It occupies the entire 28th floor of Guy's Hospital tower and is equipped with a large open plan laboratory including chemical, tissue culture, histology, microscopy and storage rooms.  

We are seeking an experienced research assistant, funded by Unilever and King's College London, to provide technical support to evaluate skin histology and cell function. The post holder will be responsible for tissue preparation, immunohistochemistry and histological analysis of tissues as well as preparation and analysis of 2D and 3D skin culture models. The post-holder will be a key member of Fiona Watt's research group and will undertake histological and cell biology analysis of Unilever samples according to program needs.

Key responsibilities 
•       The post holder will be responsible for histological processing of paraffin and frozen samples, sectioning blocks, performing immunolabelling and histochemical staining, optimisation of antibody staining and digital imaging and quantification. 
•       Analysis of sections by confocal and other types of microscopy, quantitating the results using software such as ImageJ. 
•       The role holder will be expected to process fresh human tissues as well as preparation and analysis of 2D and 3D skin culture models. Awareness of health hazards and an in depth understanding of the Human Tissue Act is essential. 
•       Responsible for the day to day running of the histology laboratory. Must be proficient in the use of all histology instruments in the Centre, undertaking internal quality control procedures, carrying out routine maintenance, and trouble-shooting if necessary. Responsible for maintaining the laboratory environment in a state of order and cleanliness as necessary for a safe working environment. 
•       Maintenance of histology laboratory supplies to ensure relevant material and consumables are available so that the research work can be completed within the timescales required. Takes delivery of lab consumables and responsibility for the correct storage of those materials. Supervise the sending and receiving of samples through the external post, arranging couriers and ensuring that the packaging complies with current postal regulations. 
•       The role holder will assist with the maintenance of Health and Safety documentation within the laboratory areas. Reviews and amends Standard Operating Procedures when appropriate. Reviews and prepares Risk Assessments when appropriate for procedures. The post holder instructs and supervises junior staff, ensuring that SOPs and health & safety procedures are undertaken correctly and equipment is used safely. 
•       The job holder will be required to attend weekly seminars & lab meetings, and will be encouraged to attend conferences and take part in public engagement activities. The job holder will generate high quality data for publication and contribute to its dissemination. 
•       The job holder will establish good working relationships with Unilever, technical staff in the Centre, and the Watt research group. Excellent communication skills will be required to gather and provide information on SOPs, provide training, and deal with routine enquiries.  
•       The above list of responsibilities may not be exhaustive, and the post holder will be required to undertake such tasks and responsibilities as may reasonably be expected. 

Skills, knowledge, and experience

Essential criteria 
•       BSc or equivalent in a Biomedical or related science 
•       Experience of working in a histology facility 
•       Significant experience in sectioning of paraffin and frozen material  
•       Experience of immunohistochemistry and other special stains 
•       Experience of primary cell culture 
•       Experience of microscopy 
•       Experience of training and/or supervising other members of staff 
•       Excellent attention to detail and organisation skills 
•       Excellent communication skills 
•       Ability to work independently, prioritise tasks, and meet deadlines 

Desirable criteria 
•       Knowledge of modern molecular pathology techniques for example RNAscope in situ hybridisation 
•       Knowledge of digital slide scanning with experience of using digital slide scanners, e.g. NanoZoomer 
•       Knowledge of digital imaging and quantification 
•       Knowledge of, and experience working with, human tissue is highly desirable 

This post will be offered on a fixed-term contract until 31/12/2023

This is a full-time post - 100% full time equivalent