We are looking for a laboratory technician to support the Bioinnovation Hub labs at Oxford Brookes University. This is a great opportunity to deliver the smooth day-to-day running of a busy set of laboratories, which is home to both university research groups and small biotechnology companies and working alongside a small friendly team of highly skilled dedicated lab technicians. You will be looking after a range of equipment, delivering induction, training and support to lab users and also assisting with management of the university’s antibody portfolio.
The laboratory technician’s main responsibilities will be:
* To provide technical support and an overall laboratory environment that is working to ‘good laboratory practice’ for the research groups and companies within the Bioinnovation Hub.
* To assist the Bioinnovation Hub manager with lab inductions for new starters and provide ongoing training and support for staff, students and visitors, including health and safety.
* To have oversight for the storage and disposal of chemicals and other waste materials.
* To take responsibility for monitoring and maintaining the laboratories to a high standard. These include tissue culture facilities and liquid nitrogen cell stores, cold rooms and equipment rooms.
* To have responsibility for routine maintenance and operational support of communal equipment, and assisting the Hub manager in arranging repairs, acting as the main point of contact for engineers visiting the laboratory.
* To monitor and order stocks of specialised reagents, materials and equipment. Assist the Hub manager in gathering quotes for equipment, servicing and other lab-related activities.
* To assist in managing the university proprietary antibody catalogue including monitoring stock levels, receiving and processing orders, and arranging shipments.
* To work with other members of the team to ensure uninterrupted technical support for Bioinnovation Hub activities.
* Preparation of health and safety documentation and standard operating procedure document. To understand the implications of the Health & Safety at Work Act and other relevant regulations, actively ensure rigorous safety standards within the laboratories.
Qualifications, skills and experience
We are looking for a well-qualified enthusiastic scientist who is familiar with a wide range of laboratory techniques, and who is interested in applying their scientific knowledge and technical expertise to the different interesting challenges that arise in a research and development lab environment. The role involves working with a range of stakeholders so good communication skills are crucial. We are also looking for someone who will become a part of our small but efficient technical team, and who will be happy sharing team responsibilities, as well as bringing their unique knowledge and experience.
The minimum requirements for this laboratory technician post are:
* HNC/HND or appropriate BSc/MSc in a relevant biology discipline or extensive appropriate laboratory experience.
* Substantial experience working in a laboratory undertaking a range of techniques relevant to cell/tissue culture, biochemistry, microbiology and/or molecular biology.
* Experience in lab health and safety documentation and procedures, or ability to demonstrate an understanding of health and safety in a lab.
* Good communication and practical skills.
* Ability and willingness to work as part of a team, but also able and willing to work on own initiative and learn new skills.
Interviews are expected to take place on 24 May 2024.
You will also enjoy the benefits of working at Oxford Brookes University with up to 38 days holiday, rising to 41 days holiday (this includes 13 Bank Holidays and Concessionary Days), a generous Local Government pension scheme (19.2% Employer contribution rate), cycle to work scheme and access to a variety of university facilities (Brookes Nursery, Gym and sports facilities). For more information about benefits please see the document 'All about Brookes' below.