Insectary Assistant Technician

We welcome applications from candidates with disabilities, neurodiversity and long‑term health conditions. We are committed to ensuring fair treatment throughout the recruitment process.

We will make adjustments to support the recruitment and interview process wherever reasonable, and will also support successful hires within their role.

Insectary Assistant Technician – Department of Biosciences – Open‑ended/Part Time (0.4 FTE, 14 hours per week) –

Start date:

1 July 2026

16 July 2026, 10:59 PM

You will join the Insect Neuro Lab  in the Department of Biosciences. The role involves maintenance of mosquito and fly stocks, insectary upkeep, and support of experimental work in sensory neuroscience.

• Five GCSEs at least Grade C or equivalent, including English and Maths.
• Science qualification (Biology, Animal Science, Zoology, Psychology, Chemistry, Botany or equivalent) and understanding of academic research.
• Experience in a technical environment setting up resources and equipment.
• Experience working in a team.
• Experience managing time to meet deadlines.
• Undergraduate or higher science degree.
• Experience in a research laboratory.
• Interest in insects and/or neuroscience.
• Knowledge of laboratory-based biological techniques.

• Good spoken and written communication skills.
• Digital proficiency with Microsoft 365 and other common tools.
• Problem‑solving and troubleshooting in a team environment.
• Advising colleagues and customers.
• Patience, attention to detail, and the ability to complete set tasks.
• Willingness to learn and develop.
• Maintenance of a safe working environment.

• Maintain mosquito and fly colonies under instructions.
• Keep insectary and laboratory space clean and organised.
• Maintain laboratory stock materials and consumables.
• Set up genetic crosses and extract DNA/genotype insects.
• Track supplies, order as needed.
• Communicate with team to coordinate insect availability.
• Report problems promptly and seek solutions.
• Assist with experimental work, data collection, and record keeping.

• Provide timely service to colleagues and visitors.
• Log and share information accurately.
• Follow established procedures and update as required.
  
  Conduct safe research and teaching support tasks.
• Support equipment maintenance and risk assessments.

• Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.
• Respond to routine queries from suppliers and external parties.
• Provide assistance to colleagues as needed.

Selected candidates will be offered a competitive salary, 27 days annual leave (plus 8 public holidays and 4 customary days, total 39 days pro‑rata), parking, cycle scheme, discounts, childcare support, wellbeing programs, and a pension scheme. More details on total rewards can be found on the university website.

We welcome applications from under‑represented groups including people with disabilities, women and BAME communities.

Submit a CV and statement online, or use the application form online. Contact  for adjustments or support.