Support Technician: Education; Biomedical Science

Overview

The School of Biosciences is looking to recruit a talented technician who will strengthen our skill base in the support of practical teaching in the Undergraduate (UG) and Postgraduate Taught (PGT) Laboratories. The breadth of activity in the School includes fieldwork, plant biology, ecology, cell biology, developmental biology, physiology, neuroscience, genetics, biochemistry and microbiology.

We are seeking individuals to work within our diverse team of technicians, to ensure excellent practical teaching support across the School. The role will primarily support the School’s biomedical sciences programmes, but you will also assist with other practical teaching support across the School. The role involves all aspects of laboratory operations including sample preparation, laboratory set‑up, equipment maintenance, housekeeping, record keeping and health and safety activities.

Applicants must have a minimum qualifying GCSE grade in English and Maths, or equivalent Level 2 qualification, or equivalent vocational experience along with skills and experience in the following areas: media, buffer and solution preparation; DNA extraction, PCR and gel electrophoresis; microscopy; cell culture; model organisms and developmental biology; pharmacology; physiology.

• Prepare and aliquot materials for laboratory classes or other teaching activities as required, including media, solutions and buffers; yeast and bacterial cultures; mammalian cell culture; model organisms; DNA, RNA and plasmids; electrophoresis gels; cell extracts; proteins and enzymes; plants; invertebrates; field equipment; first aid supplies.
• Carry out the set‑up, clear‑away and re‑storage of reagents and equipment for classes, open days and any other teaching lab use; includes maintenance and calibration of equipment, waste handling and maintaining high standards of cleanliness and order in the laboratories.
• Liaise with other members of the technical team to determine equipment, materials, IT and any other resource requirements across the teaching labs, and ensure everything is prepared in a timely manner; includes stock checking, ordering, planning, inventorying and appropriate storage of materials.
• Prioritise own work to meet deadlines and appropriate standards, and assist senior staff in planning for future work.
• Train and supervise junior members of staff in procedures, techniques and instrumentation.
• Maintain information, records, databases and documentation, to ensure accuracy, efficiency and business continuity.
• Understand, promote and apply relevant COSHH/risk assessments and departmental health and safety protocols, ensuring correct procedures are followed at all times.
• Actively contribute to a culture in the School of Biosciences where all staff and students are treated fairly, feel welcome, and can flourish professionally or academically.
• As a member of our professional staff, you will be expected to demonstrate a commitment to the professional behaviours set out in the Technical and Professional Services Shared Skills framework.
• You will be encouraged to make ethical decisions in your role, embedding the University sustainability strategy into your working activities wherever possible.
• Carry out other duties, commensurate with the grade and remit of the post.

• Minimum qualifying GCSE grade in English and Maths, or equivalent Level 2 qualification, or equivalent vocational experience – Essential.
• Skills and experience in media, buffer and solution preparation; DNA extraction, PCR and gel electrophoresis; microscopy; cell culture; model organisms and developmental biology; pharmacology; physiology – Essential.
• Skills and experience in microbial culture and sterile technique; protein handling and cell extract preparation; plant and invertebrate husbandry; ecology; fieldwork – Desirable.
• Experience of providing laboratory technical support – Desirable.
• Understanding and application of Health and Safety regulations and safe working practices – Essential.
• Effective communication with colleagues, students and staff to identify and understand their needs – Essential.
• Understanding of how to…