At a Glance
- Tasks: Support practical teaching in labs, prepare materials, and maintain equipment.
- Company: The University of Sheffield, a world-class institution with a diverse community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, flexible working, and retail discounts.
- Other info: Open-ended role with excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Join a supportive team and make a real impact in biomedical sciences education.
- Qualifications: GCSEs in English and Maths, lab support experience, and strong communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 25249 - 26707 £ per year.
The University of Sheffield is a remarkable place to work. Our people are at the heart of everything we do. Their diverse backgrounds, abilities and beliefs make Sheffield a world‑class university. We offer a fantastic range of benefits, including a highly competitive annual leave entitlement, a generous pension scheme, flexible working opportunities, a commitment to your development and wellbeing, a wide range of retail discounts, and much more.
Overview
The School of Biosciences is looking to recruit a talented technician to support practical teaching in undergraduate and postgraduate taught laboratories. The role will mainly support biomedical sciences programmes, but you will also assist with other practical teaching needs across the School.
Main Duties And Responsibilities
- Prepare and aliquot materials for laboratory classes or other teaching activities, including media, solutions and buffers; yeast and bacterial cultures; mammalian cell culture; model organisms; DNA, RNA and plasmids; electrophoresis gels; cell extracts; proteins and enzymes; plants; invertebrates; field equipment; first‑aid supplies.
- Set up, clear away and re‑store reagents and equipment for classes, open days and other lab use; maintain and calibrate equipment, handle waste, and keep laboratories clean and orderly.
- Coordinate with the technical team to determine equipment, materials, IT and resource requirements; handle stock checking, ordering, planning, inventorying and appropriate storage.
- Prioritise own work to meet deadlines, maintain standards, and assist senior staff in planning future work.
- Train and supervise junior staff in procedures, techniques and instrumentation.
- Maintain accurate records, databases and documentation to ensure efficiency and business continuity.
- Apply COSHH/risk assessments and departmental health and safety protocols, ensuring correct procedures are followed.
- Contribute to a fair and welcoming culture where all staff and students can flourish.
- Demonstrate the professional behaviours set out in the Technical and Professional Services Shared Skills framework.
- Make ethical decisions and embed the University sustainability strategy into working activities wherever possible.
- Carry out other duties commensurate with the grade and remit of the post.
Person Specification
Our diverse community recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds and beliefs of all. We foster a culture of belonging and respect. Even if your past experience does not match perfectly, your contribution is valuable.
- Minimum qualifying GCSE grade in English and Maths, or equivalent Level 2 qualification or vocational experience. (Essential)
- Skills and experience in media, buffer and solution preparation; DNA extraction, PCR and gel electrophoresis; microscopy; cell culture; model organisms and developmental biology; pharmacology; physiology. (Essential)
- Skills and experience in microbial culture and sterile technique; protein handling and cell extract preparation; plant and invertebrate husbandry; ecology; fieldwork. (Essential)
- Experience of providing laboratory technical support. (Desirable)
- Understanding and application of health and safety regulations and safe working practices. (Desirable)
- Effective communication with colleagues, students and staff. (Essential)
- Ability to follow correct procedures and instructions to achieve compliance with statutory regulations. (Essential)
- Ability to identify problems and follow suitable escalation routes. (Essential)
- Adaptable to demands of the role and changes in workflow, planning and organising routine tasks. (Essential)
- Ability and willingness to engage in relevant training. (Essential)
- Technical professional registration or willingness to work towards it. (Essential)
Further Information
- Grade: 4
- Salary: £25,249 – £26,707 per annum, potential to progress to £28,778 through sustained exceptional contribution.
- Work arrangement: Full‑time (35 hours per week)
- Duration: Open ended, available immediately
- Line manager: Senior Technician – Education
- Direct reports: None
- Website: School of Biosciences
- Closing date: 06/08/2026
We are a Disability Confident Leader. If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria, you will be invited to take part in the next stage of the selection process.
Support Technician: Education (Biomedical Science) employer: The University of Sheffield
The University of Sheffield is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises employee development and well-being. As a Senior Technician in the Geotechnical & Water Engineering Research Group, you will benefit from generous annual leave, flexible working arrangements, and a commitment to professional growth through mentoring and training opportunities. Located on a central campus, you'll be part of a diverse community that values innovation and collaboration, making it a rewarding place to contribute to meaningful research and education.
Contact Details:
The University of Sheffield Recruitment Team
