Laboratory Technical Specialist (Newcastle, GB) reference: 1272565701

Newcastle University: Laboratory Technical Specialist Opportunity - Advancing Oral Biology Research

Newcastle University presents an exciting opportunity for a skilled Laboratory Technical Specialist to contribute to cutting-edge research in oral biology. This role offers a chance to work within a dynamic academic environment, collaborate with leading researchers, and play a pivotal role in advancing our understanding of biofilms and antimicrobial responses.

Key Advantages for Candidates:

• Cutting-Edge Research: Immerse yourself in innovative studies focused on single- and multi-species biofilms, with a direct impact on understanding oral health and disease. You will be at the forefront of developing and applying advanced techniques in microfluidics and live-cell fluorescent microscopy.
• Interdisciplinary Collaboration: This position fosters strong links between microbiology and biophysics, and crucially, bridges academic research with industrial partners like Haleon. You will have the chance to work closely with experienced postdoctoral scientists and senior academics, including Dr. Alessandra da Silva Dantas, Dr. Adam Wollman, and Prof. Nick Jakubovics.
• Career Development and Support: Newcastle University is committed to its employees' well-being and professional growth. Benefits include a generous holiday package (with the option to purchase more), excellent pension schemes, and various health and wellbeing initiatives. The role provides opportunities to develop your expertise, mentor junior staff, and contribute to service development.
• State-of-the-Art Facilities: You will benefit from access to excellent scientific facilities within the School of Dental Sciences and the Faculty of Medical Sciences, equipped with state-of-the-art technologies.
• Supportive and Inclusive Environment: Newcastle University is dedicated to creating a diverse, inclusive, and respectful workplace. They are a University of Sanctuary, hold a gold Athena Swan award for gender equality, a Race Equality Charter Bronze award, and are a Disability Confident employer, ensuring equal opportunities for all.

Key Considerations for Your Career Path:

• Technical Expertise Required: The role ideally requires specific technical expertise in

  microbiology and/or advanced imaging techniques

  . A strong understanding of

  microfabrication of microfluidic chips

  for live-cell microscopy is highly desirable. If you possess these skills, this role is an excellent platform to apply and further refine them.
• Educational Background: Candidates should hold a

  BTEC HNC/HND or equivalent qualification

  in a relevant subject. Equivalent experience demonstrating technical expertise will also be considered.
• Fixed-Term Contract: Please note that this is a

  12-month fixed-term position

  . This could be an ideal opportunity for individuals looking to gain specialized experience, contribute to a specific research project, or transition into a new area of research support.
• Proactive and Collaborative Approach: Success in this role hinges on strong

  team working skills

  , excellent

  organisational ability

  , and a

  proactive, detail-oriented approach

  . The ability to adapt to changing research priorities and work collaboratively with diverse teams is essential.
• Health and Safety Focus: A thorough working knowledge of

  Health and Safety procedures

  within a laboratory environment is crucial, including experience with safe waste management. You will be responsible for assisting in the maintenance of a safe and compliant working environment.
• Scope of Responsibilities: The role encompasses a wide range of duties, including direct research support, experimental design and execution, equipment maintenance, supplier liaison, safety compliance, and training. This breadth offers a comprehensive experience in laboratory management and research support.

This position represents a valuable opportunity for a technically proficient and motivated individual to make a significant contribution to important research at a renowned academic institution. If you are looking to advance your career in a supportive, stimulating, and research-intensive environment, this role at Newcastle University is certainly worth exploring.