Support Technician

Description:

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 support the Schools molecular biology, zoology, ecology and biological science programmes, and you will also assist with other practical teaching support across the School. The role involves all aspects of laboratory operations including sample preparation, laboratory setup, equipment maintenance, housekeeping, record keeping and health and safety activities.

Applicants must have 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: media, buffer and solution preparation; DNA extraction, PCR and gel electrophoresis; microscopy; plant and invertebrate husbandry; ecology; fieldwork.

Main Duties And Responsibilities
 

• Prepare and aliquot materials for laboratory classes or other teaching activities as required, including but not limited to: media, solutions and buffers; yeast and bacterial cultures; mammalian cell culture; model organisms; DNA, plasmids and PCR; electrophoresis gels; cell extracts; proteins and enzymes; plants; invertebrates; field equipment; first aid supplies
• Carry out the setup, 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
• 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