At a Glance
- Tasks: Manage daily operations and safety compliance in research facilities focused on insects.
- Company: Join LSTM, a leading institution in tropical medicine, dedicated to impactful research and education.
- Benefits: Enjoy 30 days annual leave, generous pension schemes, and a cycle to work scheme.
- Other info: Flexible working hours and opportunities for professional development available.
- Why this job: Be part of cutting-edge research while promoting sustainability and collaboration in a vibrant environment.
- Qualifications: BSc in a biological subject with relevant experience; strong organisational and interpersonal skills required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The Department of Clinical Sciences at LSTM is seeking to appoint a Research & Education Facilities Manager (Insectaries/SAPO) to oversee the safe and efficient operation of specialist laboratory and research facilities. This permanent position offers an excellent opportunity to support cutting-edge research and teaching activities within insectaries, in vivo facilities, and laboratories at one of the world's leading institutions in tropical medicine.
You will act as the first point of contact for users, ensure compliance with GM/containment regulations, and work closely with the Health & Safety Office. You will support propagation of insect colonies, coordinate infrastructure and space management, chair user group meetings, and contribute to green operational practices. This is a key role in ensuring safe, productive research environments and maintaining high operational standards across research and education facilities.
Key responsibilities will include:
- Managing daily operations, safety compliance, and access for insectaries, in vivo research facilities, and associated laboratories
- Ensuring compliance with relevant regulations and legislation, including HTA, GM, SAPO, ACDP categories, and Schedule 5
- Supporting propagation and maintenance of insect colonies
- Coordinating safety documentation with PIs and maintaining records of inspections, incidents, and service visits
- Advising on infrastructure maintenance, equipment upkeep, and space allocation
- Delivering training, inductions, and competence assessments for staff, students, and contractors
- Overseeing lab access permissions and documentation
- Supporting the delivery of field-based teaching activities within core hours, with occasional flexible working
- Leading sustainable operational initiatives and promoting environmental best practices
- Acting as a liaison point for research teams and collaborating with the Health & Safety Office on incident response planning
- Participating in audits, user meetings, and contributing to health & safety, equality, and safeguarding policies
This role may occasionally require working outside core hours to support teaching or research timelines, for which time off in lieu will be offered.
The successful candidate will possess:
- A BSc in a biological subject with microbiological or entomological experience, or equivalent experience
- A postgraduate or professional qualification or specialist knowledge gained through training and experience
- Practical experience managing Containment Level 2 laboratories and working in insectaries
- Experience with laboratory equipment, writing SOPs, and regulatory documentation
- Strong working knowledge of containment and safety frameworks (SAPO, GMOs, Schedule 5, ACDP categories)
- Excellent organisational and interpersonal skills with the ability to manage varied tasks and collaborate across academic and technical teams
- A proactive approach to problem-solving and improving operational efficiency
- Commitment to equality, diversity, sustainability, and inclusion
(For a full list of essential and desirable criteria, please refer to the job description and person specification.)
Additional benefits of joining LSTM:
- 30 days annual leave, plus bank holidays, plus Christmas closure days
- Generous occupational pension schemes
- Government-backed “cycle to work” scheme
- Affiliated, discounted staff membership to the University of Liverpool Sports Centre
- A range of additional family-friendly policies
Research & Education Facilities Manager (Insectaries/SAPO) in Liverpool employer: LSTM
LSTM is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Liverpool that fosters innovation and collaboration in the field of tropical medicine. With a strong commitment to employee growth, LSTM provides extensive training opportunities, generous annual leave, and a supportive culture that prioritises sustainability and inclusivity. Joining our team means being part of a leading institution dedicated to impactful research and education, where your contributions will make a meaningful difference.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research & Education Facilities Manager (Insectaries/SAPO) in Liverpool
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific regulations and compliance standards mentioned in the job description, such as GMOs and SAPO. This knowledge will not only help you understand the role better but also demonstrate your commitment to safety and compliance during any discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of tropical medicine and research facilities management. Attend relevant conferences or workshops where you can meet current employees or industry experts who can provide insights into the role and the organisation.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your practical experience with Containment Level 2 laboratories and insectaries in detail. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've managed safety compliance and operational efficiency in previous roles.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your commitment to sustainability and environmental best practices. Think of examples from your past work where you implemented green initiatives, as this aligns with the role's responsibilities and the organisation's values.
We think you need these skills to ace Research & Education Facilities Manager (Insectaries/SAPO) in Liverpool
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in managing laboratory facilities, particularly in containment level environments. Emphasise any specific skills related to insectary management and compliance with safety regulations.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:In your cover letter, express your passion for research and education in tropical medicine. Mention how your background aligns with the responsibilities of the role, such as overseeing safety compliance and supporting research activities.
Highlight Relevant Qualifications:Clearly outline your educational background, especially your BSc in a biological subject and any postgraduate qualifications. Include any specific training or certifications related to laboratory management and safety frameworks.
Showcase Soft Skills:Demonstrate your organisational and interpersonal skills in your application. Provide examples of how you've successfully collaborated with teams or managed multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment, which is crucial for this role.
How to prepare for a job interview at LSTM
✨Know Your Regulations
Familiarise yourself with the relevant regulations and legislation such as HTA, GM, SAPO, and ACDP categories. Being able to discuss these confidently will show your understanding of compliance and safety in research environments.
✨Demonstrate Your Experience
Be prepared to share specific examples from your past roles that highlight your experience managing Containment Level 2 laboratories and working in insectaries. This will help illustrate your practical knowledge and problem-solving skills.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
Discuss how you manage varied tasks and collaborate across teams. Providing examples of how you've successfully coordinated safety documentation or led user group meetings can demonstrate your organisational prowess.
✨Emphasise Sustainability Initiatives
Since the role involves promoting environmental best practices, be ready to talk about any previous initiatives you've led or participated in. Showing a commitment to sustainability will align well with the institution's values.
