Technician: Research (Environmental & Evolutionary Biology)

An exciting opportunity has arisen for a technician to work in Dr Nicola Hemmings’ Reproductive Biology and Physiology Group at the University of Sheffield. The role will support multidisciplinary projects including laboratory analysis and field‑based research. Our research focuses on questions in ecological, evolutionary, and conservation biology, with particular emphasis on factors that negatively impact reproductive success in wild animals.

The role will involve:

• Extracting and identifying microplastics and other environmental contaminants from diverse biological samples.
• Using advanced microscopy and bioimaging to characterise samples.
• Maintaining rigorous standards for data collection, curation, and preliminary analysis.
• Helping communicate the research team’s work to academic and non‑academic audiences.

Main Duties And Responsibilities

• Process biological samples, including egg dissection and preparation of egg contents for microscopic analysis.
• Execute complex extraction protocols (e.g., density separation, chemical digestion) to isolate contaminants including microplastic from biological samples.
• Conduct routine and advanced microscopy to examine biological samples and identify contaminants where relevant.
• Oversee the intake, labelling, and storage of biological and environmental samples.
• Ensure the laboratory remains a safe, clean, and inclusive workspace, including monitoring consumable stocks and calibrating equipment.
• Assist in monitoring and recording data on species behaviour and ecological interactions in accordance with project protocols where needed.
• Collect and examine environmental samples while maintaining rigorous contamination‑control measures.
• Collect, input, clean, and organise raw data into centralised databases, ensuring metadata is complete and accessible.
• Assist the research team with statistical data processing and visualisation.
• Contribute to report writing, for example by drafting methodology sections and adding reflective insights for results sections.
• Support the research team’s science communication and public engagement efforts by assisting with the creation of photographic and film material.
• Participate in regular research team meetings to share progress, troubleshoot technical hurdles, and refine workflows, as well as attending relevant research seminars and training courses.
• Carry out other duties, commensurate with the grade and remit of the post.

Person Specification

Our diverse community of staff and students recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds, and beliefs of all. We foster a culture where everyone feels they belong and is respected. Even if your past experience doesn't match perfectly with this role's criteria, your contribution is valuable, and we encourage you to apply.

Qualifications

• Experience equivalent to Level 3 (BTEC/A Level) or above in a relevant field such as evolutionary biology or reproductive biology, along with proven vocational skills in line with the job description.
• Practical experience in a wet‑lab environment, including sample preparation and the use of standard laboratory equipment.
• Proficiency in light and fluorescence microscopy and image capture.
• Specific experience in microplastic extraction (e.g., chemical digestion of biological samples) or working with delicate biological samples like avian/reptilian eggs.
• A meticulous approach to work, particularly regarding sample labeling, contamination prevention, and data entry.
• Strong digital literacy with proven ability to manage complex datasets, ensure metadata integrity, and perform basic statistical tests and visualisations.
• Ability to self‑motivate and manage own workload/troubleshoot technical hurdles independently when required, while also contributing to wider team needs and helping to maintain an inclusive, supportive laboratory culture.
• Excellent written skills with the ability to draft clear technical methodologies and contribute to scientific reports.
• Experience conducting field‑based research or monitoring (e.g., biological sampling or behavioural observations).
• Experience in science communication, specifically using visual media like photography or film, and an interest in making science accessible to the public.
• Adaptability to facilitate smooth transitioning between laboratory and fieldwork where necessary.
• Knowledge of environmental/ecological stressors and their impact on animal physiology and reproductive success.

Further Information

• Grade: 5
• Salary: £27,319 per annum
• Work arrangement: Full‑time (35 hours per week)
• Duration: Fixed‑term from 1 September 2026 to 20 July 2027
• Line manager: Senior Research Fellow (PI)
• Direct reports: None

What We Offer

• A minimum of 38 days annual leave including bank holiday and closure days (pro rata) with the ability to purchase more.
• Flexible working opportunities, including hybrid working for some roles.
• Generous pension scheme.
• A wide range of discounts and rewards on shopping, eating out and travel.
• A variety of staff networks, providing opportunities for social interaction, peer support and personal development (for example, Race Equality, LGBT+, Women’s and Parent’s networks).
• Recognition Awards to reward staff who go above and beyond in their role.
• A commitment to your development access to learning and mentoring schemes; Technical Career Route.
• A range of generous family‑friendly policies paid time off for parenting and caring emergencies access to menopause support in the workplace paid time off and support for fertility treatment and more.

We are a Disability Confident Leader. If you have a disability and meet the essential criteria for this job you will be invited to take part in the next stage of the selection process.

Closing date: 13/05/2026