Senior Laboratory Technician

Contract Type: Fixed Term contract up to January 2026 

The School of Chemistry at the University of Birmingham is a vibrant and thriving academic community with over 140 academic and research staff, and 25 Professional Services staff. We have expanded significantly over the past 5 years and are moving to a new state-of-the-art molecular sciences research building in 2024. We provide an inclusive environment where we strive to support every member of staff in realising their career potential.

The Senior Laboratory Technician is responsible for the daily management of research laboratory facilities based in the Molecular Sciences building. You will provide direct support to the research activities of the Synthetic Chemistry and Materials Chemistry research sections. This will include working in liaison with Section Leads, heads of research groups and other academic staff and researchers.

You will be responsible for maintaining and managing laboratory equipment and for training new users in the operation of that equipment when required. You will also be responsible for supporting all technical aspects within the laboratory, including technical administration, ordering and safe disposal of waste from the different laboratories. 

You will be expected to implement and monitor the compliance of health and safety, estates and laboratory housekeeping matters related to the research laboratories. You will support the management of researchers by monitoring and advising where appropriate, basic housekeeping, Infrastructure and Health and Safety (H&S) matters. You will be required to establish an effective working relationship with the research groups and academic staff members to ensure day to day activities are managed in the most effective and efficient manner. You will be required to utilize University processes in relation to procurement and maintenance.

Main duties

• Provide leadership in the delivery of high-quality technical support for the research groups operating in the laboratories.
• Responsible for ensuring all items of laboratory equipment are kept in good working order and calibrated as/when required. This would include undertaking maintenance and keeping appropriate records. 

Required Knowledge, Skills, Qualifications, Experience

• Educated to Degree level (or equivalent qualifications) or relevant technical qualification in Chemistry and relevant experience - where no equivalent qualification is held, extensive proven practical and technical experience in a similar role will be required.
• Extensive proven practical experience of hands-on experimental work or working in a laboratory.
• Proven ability in managing research laboratory facilities and in maintenance of laboratory equipment.
• Evidence of literacy and numeracy, with the ability to write clearly, and to analyse information and data.
• Excellent communicator with a proven ability to persuade, negotiate with and influence others.
• Positive service attitude and shows courtesy in dealing with others. Able to act as a positive role model to others.
• Ability to organise and manage own work-load and demonstrate flexibility in terms of work practices/ requirements.
• Ability and willingness to undertake training in other activities and skills.
• Demonstrate ability to instruct and demonstrate the correct use of laboratory equipment to staff and research students.

Informal enquiries to Katherine Twiggs k.b.webb@bham.ac.uk  

To download the full job description and details of this position and submit an electronic application online please click on the 'Apply' button above.

Valuing excellence, sustaining investment
We value diversity and inclusion at the University of Birmingham and welcome applications from all sections of the community and are open to discussions around all forms of flexible working.

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