Botanical Research Technician (Newcastle, GB)

Unlock Your Potential: Botanical Research Technician (Field Crops) at Newcastle University

Are you a motivated and experienced individual with a passion for botanical research and a knack for hands-on field work? Newcastle University's Faculty of Science, Agriculture and Engineering presents an exciting part-time opportunity for a Botanical Research Technician (Field Crops) to join their dynamic team. This role offers a chance to contribute significantly to cutting-edge research at the University's renowned farm sites.

Key Advantages for Your Career Path:

• Impactful Research: Play a crucial role in supporting vital crop research activities, contributing to advancements within the School of Natural & Environmental Sciences.
• Hands-on Experience: Gain invaluable practical experience in field preparation, sowing, harvesting, and crop assessment, directly supporting researchers.
• Skill Development: Opportunities exist to develop expertise in the maintenance and operation of specialist equipment, fault diagnosis, and preventative maintenance.
• Supportive Environment: Newcastle University is committed to fostering a fair, inclusive, and supportive working environment. You'll benefit from excellent health and wellbeing initiatives.
• Generous Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary within the range of £27,319.00 - £29,588.00 (pro-rata), a generous holiday package with the option to buy more, and excellent pension schemes.
• Mentorship and Training: The role includes the opportunity to supervise and train postgraduate and undergraduate students, further enhancing your leadership and communication skills.

Key Considerations for Candidates:

• Role Type: This is a part-time (0.6 FTE), 11-month fixed-term position. Ideal for those seeking to balance their commitments or gain focused experience.
• Location: The role is based at the University Farm sites at Cockle Park and Nafferton, offering a unique, practical research setting.
• Essential Qualifications & Skills: A full UK driving licence is essential. Demonstrable experience in a relevant technical/research support role, a strong understanding of Health and Safety procedures, excellent teamwork, and good botanical/horticultural knowledge are paramount.
• Desirable Qualifications & Skills: While not mandatory, qualifications such as PA1 & PA6 Safe Use of Pesticides, trailer towing, and experience with handheld power tools or forklift operation would be advantageous. Professional registration with an appropriate awarding body is also a plus.
• Proactive Approach: The role requires a proactive, organised, and detail-oriented individual who can effectively manage priorities and adapt to changing research needs.
• Health and Safety Focus: A thorough understanding of health and safety procedures and a commitment to compliance are critical, as you will be involved in fault diagnosis, repair, and the disposal of hazardous materials.

Newcastle University is a place that values diversity and inclusion. They are committed to providing a welcoming environment for all and are proud to hold awards recognizing their efforts in gender equality and race equality. As a Disability Confident employer, they encourage applications from individuals with disabilities.

This is an exceptional opportunity to contribute to meaningful botanical research while advancing your career in a supportive and reputable academic institution. If you are ready to take on a challenging and rewarding role, we encourage you to explore this exciting prospect.