Laboratory Technician - School of Science and the Environment

This is an exciting opportunity for an enthusiastic and versatile Laboratory Technician to become an integral part of the technical support team within the School of Science and the Environment. If you are passionate about science and eager to contribute to both teaching and cutting-edge research, this role offers a rewarding path for your career development.

What the Role Entails:

The primary focus of this position is to provide comprehensive technical support within the Biological Sciences, with a particular emphasis on Forensic and Applied Biology. Your responsibilities will be varied and crucial to the smooth operation of our teaching and research laboratories. Key duties include:

• Supporting laboratory practical sessions by meticulously preparing and setting out equipment and materials.
• Directly engaging with students, offering clear explanations and demonstrations of experiments and equipment usage.
• Advising and assisting students with their research projects, particularly those involving analytical equipment.
• Maintaining the upkeep and organization of prep rooms and research laboratories.

Key Advantages for Your Career Path:

This role is designed to foster growth and provide a stable foundation for scientific professionals. Consider these significant benefits:

• Skill Development and Versatility: You will have the opportunity to work flexibly and develop your expertise across a range of disciplines, including potentially mammalian cell culture and environmental analysis. This adaptability is highly valued in the scientific field.
• Hands-On Research Support: Gain in-depth practical experience by supporting research projects and working with advanced analytical equipment.
• Student Interaction and Mentorship: Play a vital role in educating and guiding the next generation of scientists, sharing your knowledge and fostering their understanding.
• Professional Growth: The position offers annual incremental salary increases, with the potential for progression, demonstrating a commitment to valuing your contributions.
• Work-Life Balance: Generous annual leave, increasing with service, coupled with university closure days, contributes to a healthy work-life balance.
• Comprehensive Benefits Package: Benefit from an attractive Local Government Pension Scheme, a Staff Retail Benefits Scheme, and access to wellbeing support through an Employee Assistance Programme.
• Supportive Environment: You'll be joining a friendly, inclusive, and supportive culture with opportunities for in-house training and development.

Essential Considerations for Applicants:

To excel in this role and align with the School's high standards, certain qualifications and attributes are essential:

• Educational Foundation: A degree in forensic, biological science, or a related science subject is a mandatory requirement.
• Technical Expertise: In-depth practical experience and knowledge in spectrometry (e.g., LC-MS, GC-MS) and molecular biology techniques (e.g., DNA/RNA analysis) are critical.
• Safety Proficiency: Excellent knowledge of laboratory and chemical safety is paramount.
• Reagent Preparation Skills: The ability to prepare reagents and solutions accurately is a key functional requirement.
• Work Ethic and Collaboration: A highly motivated and meticulous approach to your work, coupled with a professional work ethic, is expected. You should be capable of working both independently and collaboratively, actively sharing your expertise to develop colleagues.
• Organizational and Communication Skills: Strong organizational abilities, excellent communication skills, and the capacity to manage your own workload effectively are vital for success.

This is an exceptional chance to contribute your skills and grow within a dynamic academic environment. We encourage candidates who possess the required qualifications and a genuine passion for supporting scientific endeavors to explore this opportunity further.