At a Glance
- Tasks: Support high-tech research equipment and ensure smooth lab operations.
- Company: Join Kew Science, a leader in innovative research and technology.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and continuous learning opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of an inclusive team at the beautiful Kew Gardens.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in scientific research while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: A-levels or equivalent, with relevant technical experience preferred.
The predicted salary is between 34216 - 34216 £ per year.
- Senior Technician
- Position
Summary: The Research Platforms team, within the Research Infrastructure Section of Kew Science, provides researchers with access to shared high‑cost equipment platforms such as electron microscopy, mass spectrometry, NMR spectroscopy, flow cytometry and centralised in‑vitro biology platforms.
The Senior Technician will support these platforms on a demand‑driven basis and contribute to the smooth running of the facilities.
Responsibilities
- Maintain laboratory cleanliness, organization and efficient workflow.
- Assist with training of staff and students on equipment and protocols.
- Provide maintenance support for specialised scientific equipment, including imaging platforms (light and electron microscopy; flow cytometry) and in‑vitro biology platforms.
- Support other laboratory staff in the Core Facilities team, including seed biology and molecular biology.
- Keep accurate records and adhere to laboratory safety regulations such as COSHH.
- Handle lifting and moving tasks, including deliveries, equipment, gas cylinders and liquid nitrogen tanks.
Qualifications
- Minimum level 3 qualification (e. g. A levels) or equivalent.
- Relevant experience in a technical or scientific role, or demonstrated practical knowledge gained through work experience.
- Highly organized, able to handle multiple requests from researchers.
- Strong record‑keeping skills and commitment to maintaining a clean, tidy laboratory.
- Working knowledge of laboratory regulations (e. g. COSHH) and best practices.
- Ability to learn new techniques and apply them in new areas following training.
- Interpersonal and influencing skills to maintain compliance among laboratory users; clear spoken and written communication.
- Position Details
Full time, fixed‑term contract (1 year from 1 October 2026). Salary £34,216 per annum (Band C). Location: Kew Gardens, Richmond.
Benefits
- Continuous learning opportunities.
- Generous annual leave entitlement.
- Flexible working arrangements.
- Employee Assistance Programme and wellbeing support (cycle‑to‑work scheme, discounted gym membership).
- Competitive pension.
- Employee discount scheme and free entry to national museums and galleries.
- Access to the gardens at Kew and Wakehurst.
- Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
We are a disability‑confident employer and are committed to creating an inclusive workplace for everyone.
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Contact Details:
ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS/KEW GARDENS Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Technician in London
✨Get Involved in Research Communities
Dive headfirst into the scientific research world by joining relevant communities and forums. Engage in discussions, share your insights, and even attend conferences or seminars in your field. This not only boosts your visibility but can also lead to potential job opportunities—don't forget to connect with like-minded folks!
✨Show Off Your Research Projects
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✨Utilise Professional Networks
Networking is key in scientific research. Join professional bodies or organisations related to your field. They often have job boards and resources tailored for job seekers. Make connections with professionals who may know about openings or can give you tips on landing a full-time position.
✨Keep Your Eyes on Openings & Apply Directly
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We think you need these skills to ace Senior Technician in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Research Experience:When applying for a full-time role in scientific research, make sure to emphasise your research experience prominently in your CV. Share specific projects you’ve worked on, the methodologies you used, and any significant findings. If you’ve published papers or presented at conferences, definitely include that too – it shows you’re on it in the academic world!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to the Research Area:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for the specific area of research at ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS/KEW GARDENS. Mention relevant experiences that align with the organisation’s goals or projects. This shows that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in the position – plus, it helps us see how you’d fit into the team dynamics.
Showcase Your Data Analysis Skills:In scientific research, data analysis skills are a big deal! Make sure to detail any relevant analytical tools or software you’re familiar with, like R, Python, or statistical packages. Employers are keen to know you can handle the data-heavy elements of the role, so add specific examples where you’ve used these skills effectively.
Discuss Your Future Research Goals:In your motivation section, it’s a great idea to talk about your future research goals and how they align with the work being done at ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS/KEW GARDENS. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but rather a chance to contribute meaningfully to the field. We love to see applicants who are forward-thinking and enthusiastic about their research journey!
How to prepare for a job interview at ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS/KEW GARDENS
✨Showcase Your Research Skills
In scientific research, it’s crucial to demonstrate your ability to design and conduct experiments. Come armed with examples of past projects where you've developed hypotheses, collected data, and analysed results. Be ready to discuss any specific methodologies or tools you’ve used, like PCR techniques or statistical software.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions specific to your field. Make sure you're up to speed with recent advancements in scientific research related to the role at ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS/KEW GARDENS. Brush up on concepts relevant to their projects and be prepared to discuss how you would approach a specific research problem or challenge they might face.
✨Know Your Publications
If you've authored or co-authored any papers, be prepared to discuss them! Highlighting your contributions to published research can really set you apart. It shows not only your expertise but also your ability to communicate complex ideas clearly, which is key in scientific research roles.
✨Exhibit Your Team Spirit
In full-time roles, collaboration is often at the heart of scientific research. Prepare examples that show how you've successfully worked in teams, dealt with conflicts, or contributed to group projects. We want to know how you can work effectively with the team at ROYAL BOTANIC GARDENS/KEW GARDENS to drive research projects forward.
