The role
The School of Geographical Sciences isseekingto appoint a2-year fixed term Specialist Research Technician. The role will start inMay 2026or as soon as possible.The post-holder will supporta number oflinkedresearch projects whichare investigatingenvironmental pollution(including plastics)and the impact onthe environment and human health.The post-holder will contribute to research bycarrying outchemicalanalysis of a range ofnatural samples, as well as work with the Principal Investigator to design and planresearchexperiments.
What will you be doing?
The post holder will fully support laboratory research activities, ensuring that the laboratories are prepared for experimentation and are compliant with relevant Health and Safety and other legislative or policy requirements. They will plan and carry out specialist techniques (including GC, GC/MS, Py-GC/MS, LC/MS and FTIR microscopy) and train others in these and essential core functions. They will also collate, organise and edit material for inclusion in reports and documents.
You should apply if
1. Relevant qualifications at GCSE, or NVQ level 2/3, or equivalent level, plus relevant work experience; or significant relevant work experience.
2. Detailed specialist knowledge and refined skills in analytical chemistry laboratory techniques, including chromatographic and mass spectral data interpretation, process improvement and problem solving.
3. Experience of operating and maintaining a range of scientific instrumentation, including GC, GC/MS, LC/MS and FTIR microscopy.
4. Experience of extracting and isolating specific compound classes from a range of natural matrices.
5. Excellent IT skills, working knowledge of relevant specialist software.
6. Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to deal with and prioritise a range of ongoing tasks at the same time, and to be able to cope under pressure.
7. Ability to review and advise on complex procedures.
8. Ability to work independently towards pre-defined goals.
9. Consistently maintaining a high level of accuracy and precision in all areas of work.
10. Innovative approach to work.