Overview
The Faculty of Science, Agriculture and Engineering is seeking an experienced and highly motivated Senior Chemical Labs Technician. This role supports the research activities in the School of Natural & Environmental Sciences by providing technical support within the chemical research labs and supporting technical services within the Bedson Building. The post holder will assist the Chemical Labs Team Leader in managing the chemical teaching and research facilities and infrastructure.
Responsibilities
* Help manage shared laboratory areas to enable users to work safely in a cohesive and collaborative environment.
* Support the preparation and delivery of taught practical classes and UG/PGT projects within the Chemistry labs.
* Work with facility users to ensure equipment is functioning safely, and ensure items are repaired and tested to statutory and local requirements.
* Assist in managing the chemistry stores and the disposal of hazardous waste.
* Assist in training and provision of gases and cryogens to facility users and ensure systems are working safely.
* Be capable of training and advising lab users on safe techniques, and work with users to ensure safe and effective operations.
* Be confident and competent with Health and Safety management.
* May conduct own experiments when required in line with teaching requirements and active research projects, and, in conjunction with the technical team leader, be responsible for the day-to-day operation of specific facilities or equipment, including fault diagnosis, testing, repair, calibration and preventative maintenance on instrumentation.
* Help manage shared laboratory spaces with PIs, RAs, other technical staff and PGT/PGR students to enable cohesive and collaborative work in a safe environment; chair meetings as appropriate to achieve this.
* Be responsible for the disposal of hazardous materials according to standard University procedures; monitor compliance with safety procedures and risk assessments in conjunction with the School safety officer.
* Train and advise staff and research students in appropriate laboratory techniques and good laboratory practices to ensure safe work practices; provide supervision and training for postgraduate and undergraduate project students and, when needed, for other technical staff using the facilities.
* Identify consumable and equipment requirements with PIs, RAs, other technical staff and PGT/PGR students and initiate ordering according to School and University purchasing procedures; keep financial records as directed by the technical team leader.
* Assist in active research projects and help develop experiments and protocols for teaching in collaboration with PIs, RAs, other technical staff and PGT/PGR students as appropriate.
* Inform academic staff of safety and legal compliance issues related to practical classes; COSHH forms should be produced in liaison with the post-holder.
* Test and modify proposed practical experiments (in consultation with academic staff) to ensure suitability for UG and PGT teaching; design, develop, modify and construct apparatus from verbal instruction and sketches, working with other areas of the school (e.g., workshop/glassblower).
* Prepare laboratory and equipment for practical classes and demonstrate experimental techniques where appropriate; understand FT-IR, UV-VIS, fluorescence and NMR techniques and assist in explaining and analyzing results.
Qualifications and Experience
* Demonstrable work experience in a relevant technical or research role.
* Thorough working knowledge of Health and Safety procedures including GCP and COSHH.
* Excellent teamwork and problem-solving capabilities.
* Strong organizational skills with the ability to meet deadlines and maintain attention to detail.
* Ability to contribute to the design and specification of research and teaching activities; adapt to changes in laboratory research/teaching priorities.
* A good theoretical and practical knowledge of Organic, Inorganic and Physical Chemistry; experience in synthetic, anaerobic and analytical techniques with experience of using gas systems.
Attributes and Behaviours
* Team-working: works collaboratively, shares information, respects others’ contributions, and helps others.
* Planning and organising: works in a planned, structured way and ensures activities are completed on time; can work autonomously and set priorities.
* Finding Solutions: overcomes obstacles and stays open to alternative approaches.
* Delivering services: communicates progress, pays attention to detail, and strives for high-quality results.
* Embracing change: recognizes and promotes beneficial changes and is willing to adopt new ways of working.
Education and Career Requirements
* Apprenticeship in an appropriate subject with experience in a relevant technical role; or BTEC level 4 / HNC / HND; or A-level (or equivalent) qualification; or broad work experience with progressive development through relevant roles.
About Newcastle University
Newcastle University is a global university where everyone is treated with dignity and respect. As a University of Sanctuary, we aim to provide a welcoming place of safety for all. We are committed to being an inclusive university and are an equal opportunities employer.
Benefits and Salary
Salary: £42,562 per year - estimated (Contract, Full time). New Salary: £31,236 to £32,080 with progression to £34,610 per annum. Newcastle University offers excellent benefits, including a generous holiday package, pension schemes, and health and wellbeing initiatives.
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