Laboratory and Research Technician

Short info about job

Detail information about job Laboratory and Research Technician. Terms and conditions vacancy

Applications are invited for a position of research technician in the School of Chemical Engineering at the University of Birmingham. This position is open to candidates with experience in working in a research laboratory.

The post holder will support the work of the School of Chemical Engineering, in particular by taking responsibility for a wide range of analytical equipment for physical properties analysis for both research and teaching. The post holder will have a strong background in physical properties analysis.  They will have specialist technical knowledge of a range of analytical equipment, they will manage its utilisation and instruct both staff, students and visitors (where applicable) in its use, and will take all necessary steps to ensure that the equipment is ready, available and safe for use at all times (including purchasing consumables, carrying out or arranging for others to carry out both routine and emergency maintenance).  Some equipment may be run as a service within the School or College and the post holder would be expected to assist in this running.  The post holder will contribute to research projects by collecting, analysing and interpreting data and having an input into research papers.

The School is strongly committed to promoting equality and diversity, including the Athena SWAN charter for gender equality in higher education and welcomes applications from all qualified candidates.

Person Specification 

• Educated in a relevant scientific field to degree level or equivalent experience
• GCSE (A*- C) or equivalent in mathematics and English
• Experience in previous technical based posts would be desirable including thorough practical and theoretical knowledge of a range of analytical techniques including the ones in the list below; please note the equipment list will adapt to support the School’s evolving research interest. While it is appreciated that this is a diverse list, it would be expected that the post holder would develop knowledge in all aspects over time:
  • Microscopy (Electron, Optical and Atomic-force)
  • Force Measurements (AFM/ Micromanipulation)
  • Particle size characterisation
  • Tribology Measurements
  • Micromanipulator (Nano to millimetre)
  • Porosimetry & Rheology measurements
• Ability to instruct and demonstrate analytical techniques to staff and research students
• Knowledge of and basic skills (to at least fault finding level) in IT (including software packages) and electronics.
• Good knowledge of safety issues, including COSHH and Risk Assessments and to undertake electrical safety testing.
• Able to work on own initiative without supervision and also as part of a team.
• Strong desire to increase knowledge of analytical equipment, including attending training courses and relevant conferences
• Ability and willingness to undertake training in other activities and skills

Informal enquiries can be made to Mala Patel; [email protected]

To download the details of this position and submit an electronic application online please click on the Apply Online button below, please quote Job Ref 43601 in all enquiries.

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