Chemistry Technician - Teaching Laboratories

About the Opportunity

Northeastern University London is committed to providing a forward-thinking, experiential education that prepares students for success in a global, fast-changing world. As part of our dynamic academic community, we are looking for a Chemistry Technician to contribute to our brand-new high-quality teaching laboratories. The ideal candidate will play a key role in supporting the delivery of chemistry-based practical sessions and ensuring a safe and efficient learning environment for students and faculty.

The Chemistry Technician will be responsible for overseeing and supporting the operation of teaching laboratories for chemistry students, working closely with the Laboratory Manager. This includes preparing chemicals, equipment, and materials for practical sessions, ensuring that the laboratories are safe, well-maintained, and compliant with health and safety regulations. The role also involves providing technical support to academic faculty, assisting students in their practical learning, and collaborating with the Laboratory Manager to ensure a high standard of educational support and laboratory operations.

Core duties will include:

• Laboratory Support:

  • Prepare, set up, and maintain chemistry materials, reagents, and laboratory equipment for practical lessons and experiments.

  • Troubleshoot and repair laboratory equipment as needed, ensuring that all instruments are calibrated and functioning correctly.

  • Organise and manage laboratory supplies, ensuring stock levels are maintained and equipment is in good condition.

  • Oversee the safe storage, handling, and disposal of chemicals and waste, following legal and university guidelines.

• Teaching and Technical Support:

  • Assist academic faculty in preparing and delivering chemistry practical sessions, demonstrations, and experiments.

  • Supervise and assist students during practical sessions, offering guidance and technical support while ensuring adherence to safety protocols.

  • Provide on-the-spot troubleshooting and technical advice to students and faculty during laboratory activities.

• Health and Safety:

  • Maintain a high standard of health and safety within the laboratory, ensuring compliance with safety procedures, risk assessments, and the proper use of personal protective equipment (PPE).

  • Perform regular risk assessments and maintain accurate safety documentation for all laboratory activities.

  • Monitor and enforce safe working practices, ensuring that all safety protocols are followed during experiments and practical sessions.

• Training and Development:

  • Support and Train all lab users on laboratory procedures, safety protocols, and equipment usage

  • Stay updated on new chemistry techniques, teaching practices, and laboratory technologies to support the university’s academic offerings.

• Administrative and Operational Support:

  • Maintain accurate records for chemical inventories, laboratory supplies, and equipment usage.

  • Assist with the ordering and procurement of laboratory supplies and equipment, ensuring that stock levels are consistently sufficient for course requirements.

  • Support the Laboratory Manager in the budgeting process for laboratory resources and help with cost management.

  • Carry out any other duties within the scope and purpose of the job as requested by the line manager. 

About the Faculty 

The recently formed Faculty of Computing, Mathematics, Engineering, and Natural Sciences (CoMENS) is undergoing significant growth at Northeastern University London. It is home to interdisciplinary undergraduate dual-degree (in UK and US) programmes and plays a major role in Northeastern University’s student mobility programmes, offering undergraduate courses in Computer Science, Data Science, Bioscience, Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics, and Engineering, striving to inspire and equip entering students to be outstanding scientists. 

Person Specification Criteria 

To undertake this role, the following should apply. All criteria are considered essential unless otherwise stated. Should you not have the experience below, please do highlight where transferable skills would assist with you undertaking the role. 

Key Criteria

• A Bachelor’s degree in Chemistry or a related field.
• Experience working in a chemistry laboratory environment, with a strong understanding of laboratory procedures, equipment, and safety standards.
• Knowledge and experience in the preparation and handling of chemicals, reagents, and laboratory materials.
• Strong technical skills, with the ability to troubleshoot and maintain laboratory equipment.
• Excellent organisational and time-management skills, with the ability to prioritise and work under pressure.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with a team-oriented mindset and the ability to work effectively with students and faculty.
• A proactive approach to maintaining health and safety standards and ensuring compliance with relevant regulations.
• First Aid trained, or willingness to obtain First Aid training and certification.

Desirable:

• A Master’s degree in Chemistry or a related field
• AdvanceHE Associate fellowship or similar teaching qualification.
• Professional registration e.g. Science Council
• Previous experience in an academic or teaching laboratory setting
• Familiarity with modern analytical instruments and laboratory technologies.
• Experience in training or supervising junior faculty or students.

Additional Information

Enquiries 

Informal enquiries may be made to Matthew Calladine, Laboratory Manager (m.calladine@northeastern.edu), however, all applications must be made in accordance with the application process specified.

Application Process 

Participation in the equal opportunities section is encouraged, but voluntary. Applications must include a full curriculum vitae, and a cover letter that sets out concisely and in ways relevant to this role how the applicant meets the person specification criteria. 

The panel will be shortlisting for this position on a rolling basis so please apply as soon as possible. We reserve the right to close this post before the closing date if we receive a large number of applications.

Job sponsorship. Visa sponsorship may be available for a successful candidate for this position.

Position Type

Research

Additional Information

Yu-Chun Pan

They can be reached at the following:

y.pan@northeastern.edu