At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a team of researchers to explore human diets through innovative chemistry techniques.
- Company: University of Bristol, ranked #1 in the UK for research in Chemistry.
- Benefits: Enjoy 40 days annual leave, pension contributions, and a vibrant social scene.
- Other info: Dynamic lab setting with opportunities for career growth and learning from top researchers.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in groundbreaking research while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in analytical chemistry and a passion for problem-solving.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
The successful applicant will join leading international researchers in the Organic Geochemistry Unit. Using established wet-chemistry protocols and state-of-the-art analytical instrumentation, you will contribute to projects investigating the diet of human populations in the past. You will also support the routine running of laboratory operations. The role is based in laboratories in the School of Chemistry at the Clifton campus of the University of Bristol.
Weekly presentations from researchers in the group and guests from other institutions will give you the opportunity to keep abreast of brand-new research in the field. Other benefits of working for the University of Bristol include:
- a generous annual leave allowance totalling 40 days
- enrolment into the University of Bristol Group Pension Plan with an employer contribution of up to 12.5%
- a cycle to work scheme
- staff social, clubs and events
What will you be doing?
- Carrying out experimental techniques using pre-agreed sample preparation and wet chemistry protocols
- Gathering and manipulating routine data so that others can interpret it
- Responsive and flexible based on service need
- Give task direction to others when necessary
- Operating, servicing, maintenance and calibration of research equipment (including GC, GC-MS, HT-GC-MS, GC-C-IRMS and GC-TC-IRMS)
- Recognising and resolving problems, including complex issues, e.g. fault diagnosis, process improvement
Requirements:
- Understanding Health or significant relevant work experience in Chemistry or a strongly related subject
- Experience of working in an analytical chemistry laboratory to include laboratory techniques, process improvement and problem solving
- Basic knowledge of analytical environmental science or organic geochemistry
- Practical experience of analysing samples using GC-FID and GC-MS, including data interpretation
- Experience of operating and maintaining a range of scientific instrumentation, including data collection
- Knowledge of good laboratory practice and safety, including COSHH and risk assessment
- Excellent IT skills, and an ability to effectively use new software or IT systems when required
- Excellent organisational skills, with the ability to deal with and prioritise a range of ongoing tasks at the same time, and to be able to cope under pressure
- Ability to carry out procedures in an accurate and timely manner, and contribute to process improvement
- Ability to work with minimal supervision towards pre-defined goals
- Proven experience of completing tasks to a high level of accuracy
- Innovative approach to work
Contract type: Open ended with fixed funding for 24 months. The position is funded for a fixed term of 2 years with a starting date of June 2026 or ASAP. Further funding may become available to extend this employment.
Work pattern: Full time
Grade: F
School/Unit: School of Chemistry
Research Technician employer: City of Bristol College
The University of Bristol is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration among leading international researchers. As a Research Technician in the School of Chemistry, you will benefit from generous annual leave, a robust pension plan, and opportunities for professional growth through weekly presentations and networking events, all within a top-ranked research environment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Technician
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at the University of Bristol, especially in the School of Chemistry. A friendly chat can give us insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Brush up on your knowledge of wet chemistry protocols and analytical instrumentation. We want to show that you’re not just a fit on paper but also in practice.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your problem-solving skills! Be ready to discuss past experiences where you tackled complex issues in the lab. We love hearing about innovative approaches to challenges.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we’ve got loads of resources to help you ace the process.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Technician
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Research:When writing your application, let us see your enthusiasm for organic geochemistry and research. Share any relevant experiences or projects that sparked your interest in the field, as this will help us understand your motivation.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your skills and experiences that align with the job description. We want to see how your background fits into our team and the exciting work we do at the University of Bristol.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. This helps us quickly grasp your qualifications and makes a great first impression!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our official website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and is considered for the role. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at City of Bristol College
✨Know Your Chemistry
Brush up on your knowledge of analytical chemistry and organic geochemistry. Be ready to discuss specific techniques you've used, like GC-FID and GC-MS, and how you’ve applied them in past projects. This shows you’re not just familiar with the theory but have practical experience too.
✨Showcase Your Problem-Solving Skills
Prepare examples of how you've tackled complex issues in the lab. Whether it’s fault diagnosis or process improvement, having concrete examples will demonstrate your innovative approach and ability to work under pressure.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Lab Protocols
Understand the wet-chemistry protocols and good laboratory practices, including COSHH and risk assessments. Being able to discuss these protocols confidently will show that you take safety seriously and are ready to contribute to the lab's operations.
✨Engage with Current Research
Stay updated on recent advancements in organic geochemistry and related fields. Mentioning specific studies or researchers during your interview can highlight your enthusiasm for the subject and your commitment to continuous learning.
