Research Technician (Air Pollution) - School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences - 104955

Overview

Job Title: Research Technician (Fixed Term, 100% FTE)

School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK

Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK

Contract: Full Time, Fixed Term up to March 2030

Salary: £29,647 to £31,460 per annum, with potential progression to £35,388 in post

Grade: 5

Closing date: 23 October 2025

Background The University of Birmingham aims to attract outstanding people, support their success and recognise achievement. The institution values development, diversity and inclusion, as demonstrated by Athena SWAN, Stonewall and Two Ticks accreditations. This appointment is within the atmospheric science group, whose air pollution research is international in perspective, policy-relevant and widely used by governments and international organisations such as the WHO.

Role Summary

This fixed-term, full-time (100%) research technician post is funded by DEFRA for 4.5 years to join the University of Birmingham\\\’s atmospheric science team. The post holder will be responsible for the day-to-day operation of the Birmingham Air Quality Supersite (BAQS) on the University north campus. BAQS comprises state-of-the-art instruments for measuring atmospheric components relevant to public health and atmospheric research. The role involves dedicated laboratory work with training provided. The post holder will work with the atmospheric science research team to collect, process and analyse data to deliver robust research results, maintain and calibrate equipment, manage consumables, and write COSHH risk assessments where appropriate. The post holder will support College activities under the direction of the Technical Services and Operations Manager as required.

Main Duties

Instrument Management

• Maintenance of experimental infrastructure for the collection of atmospheric samples using standard sample collection protocols.
• Operation, maintenance and calibration of automatic analysers for atmospheric measurements.
• Follow Standard Operating Procedures and develop modified and new procedures, if required.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and COSHH forms for relevant procedures within the project.
• Download and archive data from the instruments.
• Work closely with the atmospheric science research team to ensure complementarity and smooth field and laboratory measurement campaigns.
• Operate the facility in a safe, well maintained condition with due regard for data quality and assurance.

Other Duties

• In collaboration with the senior technical and academic staff, take an active role in training and mentoring junior or newly appointed staff and students.
• Actively engage in the Personal Development Process.
• Contribute at a level appropriate with the grade to internal and external audit procedures and regulatory inspections.
• Assist Technical Managers in identifying and tracking items on the University asset register.

General laboratory organisation, Research support and administration

• Assist with rapid and accurate archiving of incoming research materials.
• Maintain stocks of laboratory consumables, including ordering, preparation of reagents, collection from College Stores, storage and receipt of materials.
• Assist with safe disposal of all types of waste through correct channels.
• Help ensure laboratory facilities are clean, functional and safe; report problems through appropriate channels.
• Ensure laboratory equipment is routinely maintained and fully functional.

Health and Safety

General Workplace Health and Safety

• Understand and comply with health and safety foundations including HASWA responsibilities and risk assessment & control (COSHH).
• Complete risk assessments and implement controls, including COSHH.
• Follow fire and electrical safety procedures and safe manual handling and DSE practices.
• Understand Hazardous area classification and DSEAR principles within area of responsibility.
• Adhere to site and local emergency procedures and University safety policies.

Laboratory Safety & Housekeeping

• Work safely in a laboratory and maintain excellent housekeeping.
• Order and control stocks of laboratory materials; follow risk assessments and compliance requirements.
• Ensure laboratory health and safety compliance with legal, regulatory and ethical requirements.

Environmental Management

• Understand management and control of laboratory waste and handling and disposal of chemical substances.
• Understand environmental risk assessments (impact assessment).

Quality

• Follow quality procedures to meet relevant standards; perform laboratory tasks according to Standard Operating Procedures.
• Demonstrate technical competence in the use of specified instrumentation and laboratory equipment, including calibration where required.

Required Knowledge, Skills, Qualifications, Experience

• BSc or MSc in a physical science, environmental science or engineering discipline.
• Experience in laboratory analysis of trace environmental chemicals and/or field methods in atmospheric science or related area.
• Knowledge of technical and scientific methods described above and Good Laboratory Practice, gained through experience and formal qualification.
• Courtesy in dealing with others; ability to organise and manage own work load and flexibility in work practices.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team; knowledge of current H&S policies.
• Proficiency in commonly used software packages.
• Willingness to work towards professional registration.
• Ability to drive is an asset but not essential.

Informal enquiries to Roy Harrison, email: r.m.harrison@bham.ac.uk

We believe there is no such thing as a \’typical\’ member of University of Birmingham staff and that diversity is a strength. We are committed to addressing barriers faced by some groups and hold Athena SWAN, Race Equality Charter and Disability Confident accreditations. We have an Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Centre and a sustainability focus as part of our strategy. More information is available on our website.