Technician - Biology/Zoology

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 the school of science, particularly focusing on Biological/Zoological sciences.

The core duty is to work with the team 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 in the insectary and 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.

Trainee technicians/student helpers may need to be trained and supervised in the 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, applicants should be onsite to support academics and students, and may occasionally be needed to support out of hours outreach or animal maintenance and welfare.

Due to 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.

This role is part time, 18.5 hours per week.

You should have relevant experience in a relevant scientific discipline (e.g. biological sciences/Forensic Science) and/or a degree in a scientific discipline.

You will have the ability to develop standard operating procedures for practical classes and have excellent and proven verbal communication skills - be able to communicate effectively to students and staff. You must have the ability to plan and monitor their own workload, operating both alone and as part of a team, and demonstrable high level of organisational and practical skills. You will also have good working knowledge of relevant Health and Safety including risk assessments and COSHH.

1. Liaise with academic staff in the School of Science and the Technical team to ensure full technical support for teaching, course development, academic enterprise, outreach and research in this area.
2. Identify and acquire as well as develop the necessary skills/training related to this post in consultation with the senior and Technical team leader.
3. Assist in the upkeep, maintenance, breeding and welfare of the animals within the insectary.
4. Provide technical assistance to other members of staff as required by the Technical Team Leader or Senior Technician.
5. Provide relevant technical assistance for student projects.
6. Assist the Technical team with practical preparation in Biology/Zoology, Forensic sciences and access classes.
7. Assist with supervision and training of student employees and volunteers.
8. Help or construct and/or install new apparatus and equipment. Operate and maintain existing apparatus and equipment as appropriate.
9. Help to maintain material stocks, spares etc. and report deficiencies to the Technical Team.
10. Demonstrate in relevant practicals as required (if technician workload permits).
11. Undertake appropriate technician development programs and training.
12. Ensure local compliance with all relevant Health and Safety regulations and policies and write risk assessments where appropriate.
13. Undertake any additional duties as required in agreement with the line manager and Technical team leader.