At a Glance
- Tasks: Support practical teaching in biosciences and manage a small technical team.
- Company: Join a diverse university community committed to innovation and sustainability.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, part-time hours, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Encouraging environment that values unique backgrounds and promotes growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in education while working with cutting-edge bioscience techniques.
- Qualifications: Degree in biological sciences and experience in molecular biology required.
The predicted salary is between 32080 - 36636 £ per year.
The School of Biosciences is seeking an experienced Technician to support practical teaching in undergraduate and postgraduate taught laboratories. The candidate will work under the Technical Specialist: Education and supervise a small technical team.
Main Duties and Responsibilities
- Provide specialist technical support for Biochemistry and Molecular Biology programmes, coordinating reagent preparation, resource allocation, and ensuring equipment readiness.
- Act as the primary technical contact for academic enquiries within your area.
- Liaise with staff to establish timetables and session requirements, ensuring smooth delivery of practical classes and identifying improvement areas.
- Carry out experimental work for the development or refinement of practical content.
- Line-manage a small technician team, delegating tasks, managing workloads, monitoring performance, and conducting annual reviews.
- Deliver training and coaching on specialist techniques, equipment, and teaching support to staff and students.
- Maintain health and safety compliance, updating documentation as required.
- Oversee specialist equipment and instrumentation, arrange servicing and maintenance with the Technical Operations Team.
- Manage IT requirements for practical teaching, ensuring software availability and maintaining online resources.
- Manage delegated budget responsibilities and plan spending priorities in partnership with the Technical Specialist: Education.
- Collaborate with other team leaders to share best practice, advance progress, and align resources.
- Create and maintain support service records to ensure business continuity.
- Represent operational activities at meetings and contribute to planning.
- Promote a fair, welcoming culture in line with the University’s values.
- Demonstrate commitment to the behaviours outlined in the Sheffield Professional Framework.
- Embed the University sustainability strategy into daily work.
- Carry out other duties as required, commensurate with the role.
Person Specification
Our diverse community recognises the unique abilities, backgrounds, and beliefs of all staff and students. Even if your experience does not match perfectly, we encourage you to apply. Reference the application criteria in your statement.
Essential Criteria
- Degree in a biological sciences subject or equivalent experience.
- Well-developed knowledge and practical experience in molecular biology (including biochemistry, microbiology, genetics).
- Experience providing technical support for large-group laboratory teaching at BSc or MSc level.
- Ability to demonstrate and train relevant techniques appropriate to the audience.
- Experience delivering an efficient technical support service with planning and prioritisation.
- Understanding of statutory, quality, environmental compliance procedures and health and safety regulations.
- Strong customer service skills, identifying and meeting needs in line with organisational culture.
- Proven ability to create and maintain records, documents, and systems with attention to detail.
- Effective communication with colleagues, students, and staff.
- Technical Professional Registration or willingness to work towards it.
- IOSH Managing Safely qualification or equivalent.
Desirable Criteria
- Experience managing others, delegating tasks and supporting development.
Job Details
- Grade: 6
- Salary: £32,080 – £36,636 per annum, pro rata
- Work arrangement: Part-time (17.5 hours per week)
- Duration: Fixed-term from 29 June 2026 for 12 months
- Line manager: Technical Specialist: Education
- Direct reports: Technician (Grade 5) and Support Technician (Grade 4)
Closing Date 10 June 2026
Senior Technician: Education (Molecular Bioscience) in Sheffield employer: University of Sheffield
The School of Biosciences offers a dynamic and supportive work environment, where you can thrive as a Senior Technician in Molecular Bioscience. With a strong emphasis on professional development, our culture promotes collaboration and innovation, ensuring that you have the resources and training needed to excel in your role. Located within a vibrant academic community, we are committed to sustainability and inclusivity, making this an excellent place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Technician: Education (Molecular Bioscience) in Sheffield
✨Get Involved in Local Biological Communities
Check out local biology clubs or societies in your area. Attend their meetings or talks to meet like-minded people, and don’t hesitate to bring up that you’re looking for part-time gigs. These connections can lead to hidden job opportunities that aren’t advertised online.
✨Leverage University Career Services
If you’re a student, your university’s career services can be a goldmine for finding part-time roles in biology. They often have exclusive listings or can help you polish your approach before you hit that ‘apply’ button—definitely worth a visit!
✨Volunteer for Research Projects
Look for research projects or labs in your area that might need volunteers or interns. This can not only give you valuable experience but also lead to a part-time position. Plus, it’s a great way to show your commitment and passion!
✨Don’t Forget to Apply Directly Through Us!
We get it—hunting for a part-time role like a biology whiz can be exhausting! Make sure to check our website regularly for openings at University of Sheffield. We love seeing fresh talent, and you might just find the perfect part-time gig waiting for you!
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Technician: Education (Molecular Bioscience) in Sheffield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Lab Skills:In the field of biology, technical skills are key! Be sure to highlight any lab techniques, fieldwork experience, or relevant coursework in your CV. Specific skills like PCR, gel electrophoresis, or microscopy can really make you stand out to University of Sheffield.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you've got any certifications related to biology—like safety training or specific lab skills—make sure to include those in your application. They not only demonstrate your commitment but also give you an edge over other candidates applying for the part-time Senior Technician: Education (Molecular Bioscience) role at University of Sheffield.
Tailor Your Cover Letter with Enthusiasm:For a part-time position, it's all about demonstrating motivation and a willingness to learn. Use your cover letter to show why you're passionate about biology and how working with University of Sheffield will help you achieve your career goals—make it personal!
Keep Your Availability Clear:Since this is a part-time gig, be upfront about your availability in your CV and cover letter. Whether you're juggling studies or other commitments, let University of Sheffield know when you can contribute—this clarity makes scheduling a breeze!
How to prepare for a job interview at University of Sheffield
✨Dive into Your Research
Brush up on the latest findings in the biology field, especially those related to the role you're applying for at University of Sheffield. Being able to discuss recent studies or breakthroughs will show your passion and commitment to the subject – it could give you the edge over other candidates!
✨Know Your Tools!
If the biology position involves lab work, be prepared to chat about the specific techniques or tools you’ve used in your studies, like PCR, gel electrophoresis, or microscopy. You might be faced with technical questions about these methods during the interview, so refreshing your knowledge can really help.
✨Show Your Enthusiasm!
As this is a part-time role, you’ll want to convey your eagerness to learn and grow within the company. Be ready to share your motivation for applying to University of Sheffield and how this position fits into your future career plans. They’ll appreciate your enthusiasm and willingness to contribute!
✨Have Your Examples Ready
Think of specific projects or coursework where you tackled real-life biological problems. Whether it’s a lab experiment or a group project, having concrete examples allows you to showcase your skills and teamwork during behavioural interview questions. It's all about demonstrating that you can apply your knowledge in practical settings.
