Research Assistant in Microbial Analysis of Drinking Water Systems

Overview

Do you have a background in molecular biology and an interest in applying your technical skills to real-world challenges? We are seeking a Research Assistant to support the analysis of samples from drinking water systems, contributing to research that advances understanding of microbial dynamics with direct relevance to managing water quality, infrastructure performance and public health.

You will join an applied, interdisciplinary research team working across the EPSRC-funded “To Chlorinate or not To Chlorinate” and industry-funded projects exploring biofilm and bulk-water interactions in operational drinking water assets. The role centres on molecular analysis of biofilms and bulk-water samples, including DNA extraction, gene quantification and sequencing library preparation, using established protocols for low-biomass samples.

Alongside generating molecular data, you will undertake initial data processing and quality controls, ensuring accurate quantification, structured metadata capture and integration of outputs into curated project datasets.  You will also conduct complementary analyses, including assimilable organic carbon (AOC) quantification and flow cytometry, contributing to multi-parameter datasets used to interpret microbial behaviour in engineered systems.

As part of our research team, there will be opportunities to assist with field-sampling activities and engage with industry partners, we are keen to ensure breadth beyond day-to-day laboratory based work and provide career development opportunities.  We consider this position to be well suited to a diligent candidate who enjoys laboratory work, values meticulous data management and is motivated to see how molecular insights can inform engineering and operational decisions.

Main duties and responsibilities

• Planning and undertaking molecular analysis of biofilm and bulk-water samples including but not limited to:
  • extracting DNA using an established protocol for low biomass samples
  • gene quantification (qPCR and ddPCR platforms)
  • library preparation for sequencing

• Perform initial processing, quality control, and organisation of molecular datasets, ensuring accurate quantification and traceable metadata capture
• Maintain structured experimental records and integrate laboratory outputs into curated project databases in accordance with agreed protocols
• Conduct assimilable organic carbon (AOC) analysis, including calculation of concentrations and structured reporting of results
• Undertake flow cytometry analysis and preliminary data processing
• Contribute to the logistical organisation of samples for sequencing, with scope for the candidate to engage with downstream bioinformatics using established workflows in R if desired
• Support ordering of consumables, maintaining equipment and adherence to health and safety procedures
• Participating in research group meetings and collaborative project discussions
• Present technical updates to project team members
• Supporting sampling activities where required
• Carry out other duties, commensurate with the grade and remit of the post

Person Specification

Our diverse community of staff and students recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds, and beliefs of all. We foster a culture where everyone feels they belong and is respected. Even if your past experience doesn't match perfectly with this role's criteria, your contribution is valuable, and we encourage you to apply. Please ensure that you reference the application criteria in the application statement when you apply.

Criteria

Essential or desirable

Stage(s) assessed at

A Master’s degree in Molecular Biology, Environmental Microbiology or a closely related discipline  (or 1st / 2:1 Undergraduate degree with equivalent laboratory experience)

Essential

Application & interview

Hands-on experience with molecular techniques (e.g. DNA extractions, PCR and/or sequencing library preparation) and culturing

Essential

Application & interview

Experience maintaining accurate laboratory records, and managing experimental data, included structured metadata, in a systematic and traceable manner

Essential

Application & interview

Experience handling, organising and processing numerical datasets with competence in basic data analysis (e.g. using R or similar statistical software)

Essential

Application & interview

A careful, methodical approach to laboratory work with strong attention to detail, contamination control and data integrity

Essential

Application & interview

Ability to work effectively and efficiently  both independently and collaboratively within an interdisciplinary team

Essential

Application & interview

Excellent organisational and planning skills with the ability to prioritise and plan own workload to meet agreed protocols and deadlines.

Essential

Application & interview

Clear written and verbal communication skills appropriate for technical reporting and team discussions

Essential

Application & interview

Experience working with environmental or low-biomass samples (e.g. water, biofilms, soils, or similarly complex matrices)

Desirable

Application & interview

Knowledge of flow cytometry

Desirable

Application & interview

Further Information

Grade

6

Salary

£32,080 – £36,363 per annum. Potential to progress to £39,906 per annum through sustained exceptional contribution

Work arrangement

Full-time (flexible-options considered)

Duration

1st May 2026 -  31st Oct 2026

Line manager

Research Fellow in Water Systems Microbiology

Direct reports

None

Our website

https://sheffield.ac.uk/mac

For informal enquiries about this job contact Dr Katherine Fish, at k.fish@sheffield.ac.uk

Next steps in the recruitment process

It is anticipated that the selection process will take place week commencing 20th April. This will consist of an interview and a tour of some of the facilities for those attending in person. We plan to let candidates know if they have progressed to the selection stage by week commencing 13th April. If you need any support, equipment or adjustments to enable you to participate in any element of the recruitment process you can contact mac-operations@sheffield.ac.uk

Our vision and strategic plan

We are the University of Sheffield. This is our vision: sheffield.ac.uk/vision (opens in new window).

We are a Disability Confident Employer. If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria for this job you will be invited to take part in the next stage of the selection process.