Forensic Technician

Technical Services at the University of Derby underpins the key activities of teaching, research, knowledge transfer and innovation. As an applied University we value the importance of practical work and experimental learning. Our highly skilled Technicians from across all areas of the organisation have a vital part they play in delivering the very best student experience, developing research activity and contributing to innovation. Central to the success of our Technical Service is collaboration, teamwork and knowledge sharing through our TechNet.  

Technical colleagues support a wide range of specialist resources across the College of Science and Engineering. Working independently and in collaboration with academics, our technicians play an important role in advancing the work in many of our academic disciplines. We support specialist areas such as laboratories, resource HUB’s, workshops, controlled environments, clinical suites, media studios and Derby Theatre. We also provide specialist support for Research Centres such as the Institute for Innovation in Sustainable Engineering (IISE).

As a signatory of the national Technician Commitment programme, the University has pledged to support the visibility, recognition, career development and sustainability of Technical colleagues.

Many of our highly skilled technical staff members hold PhDs and Degrees in disciplines associated with the specialisms they deliver. An increasing number of our technicians have been recognised for their contribution to teaching and student support as Fellows and Associate Fellows of Advance HE. A number also hold professional accreditation status through organisations such as the Science Council, which establishes knowledge, understanding and competence.   

The main purpose of this role is to provide scientific technical support for teaching, research, outreach and academic enterprise in Forensic Science.

The core duty is to work with the Senior Forensic Technician to liaise with academic staff to ensure full technical support for teaching, course development, academic enterprise, outreach and research. 

The main responsibility is to provide technical support for crime scene investigation, forensic imaging and forensic evidence laboratory analysis (including fingermark, shoe mark and body fluid analysis) in undergraduate and post graduate teaching classes. This may involve demonstrating scientific techniques in relevant practicals (if workload permits). The role also requires the candidate to support the successful completion of student laboratory and fieldwork projects, such as checking methodology and health and safety documentation, training on relevant techniques/equipment.

The efficient and safe operation of the Forensic Teaching Laboratory, Forensic Imaging Facility and Crime Scene House and Forensic Vehicles is also a main responsibility. New apparatus/equipment may need to be installed and implemented in the facilities, and current instruments maintained and calibrated.

Trainee technicians/student helpers may need to be trained and supervised in forensic techniques/general upkeep of laboratory and specialist spaces. Local compliance with all relevant health and safety regulations and policies must be kept, with completing appropriate risk assessments.

During university term time, you will be required to be onsite to support academics and students, and may occasionally be needed to support out of hours outreach or research activities.

By signing the technician commitment, the university has pledged to support the career development of technicians and offers support for attending technician development courses (such as via HEATED) or becoming a Fellow or Associate Fellow of Advanced Higher Education.

Interview Date - 3rd October 2024

You should have degree level experience in a relevant scientific discipline (e.g. Forensic Science), or relevant forensic experience in industry. You will have experience of practical teaching sessions in (forensic) science; involvement in crime scene investigation (e.g. forensic photography, documentation, packaging) including vehicle examination; and laboratory forensic analysis (e.g. fingerprint, footwear, body fluid, imaging).

You will have the ability to develop standard operating procedures for practical classes using a wide range of forensic techniques, and have excellent verbal communication skills to be able to communicate effectively to students and staff. You also must have the ability to plan and monitor your own workload, operating both alone and as part of a team, with a demonstrable high level of organisational and practical skills. You will have good working knowledge of relevant Health and Safety including risk assessments and COSHH. You will be a great team worker and able to work with minimal supervision.

1. Liaise with academic staff in Biomedical and Forensic Sciences to ensure full technical support for teaching, course development, academic enterprise, outreach and research in the area of Forensic Science. Ensure that work generated in this way is fully communicated to the relevant Senior Technician for programming of work.
2. Provide technical support for Crime Scene Investigation, Forensic Imaging and Forensic Evidence Laboratory Analysis.
3. Provide technical assistance to other members of staff as required by the Technical Team Leader or Technical Manager.
4. Maintain the efficient operation and orderly appearance of the Forensic Teaching Laboratory, Forensic Imaging Facility and Crime Scene House.
5. Provide relevant technical assistance for student projects (undergraduate and post-graduate).
6. Assist with supervision and training of trainee technicians.
7. Construct and/or install new apparatus and equipment, operate and maintain existing apparatus and equipment as appropriate.
8. Help to maintain material stocks, spares etc. and report deficiencies to the Senior Technician.
9. Demonstrate in relevant practicals as required (if technician workload permits).
10. Undertake appropriate technician development courses.
11. Ensure local compliance with all relevant Health and Safety regulations and policies and write risk assessments where appropriate.
12. Undertake any additional duties as required in agreement with the line manager and Technical Team Leader.