Technician: Research (Environmental & Evolutionary Biology)
Technician: Research (Environmental & Evolutionary Biology)

Technician: Research (Environmental & Evolutionary Biology)

Full-Time 30000 - 40000 £ / year (est.) No home office possible
University of Sheffield

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Support groundbreaking research on environmental stressors and microplastics in biological systems.
  • Company: Join the vibrant School of Biosciences at the University of Sheffield.
  • Benefits: Enjoy competitive leave, flexible working, and a commitment to your development.
  • Other info: Be part of a diverse team making significant contributions to science.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact in environmental research while gaining hands-on experience.
  • Qualifications: Level 3 qualification in relevant field and practical lab experience required.

The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.

Overview

The University of Sheffield School of Biosciences is home to one of the largest and most vibrant groups of animal and plant scientists in the UK. We are seeking a collaborative Research Technician to join Dr Nicola Hemmings’ research group within the Ecology and Evolutionary Biology (EEB) Research Cluster. This is a unique opportunity to provide multidisciplinary technical support for research into the impact of environmental stressors on biological systems.

Responsibilities

  • As a key member of our research team, you will bridge the gap between rigorous laboratory analysis and dynamic fieldwork.
  • You will support our investigation into environmental contaminants by leading the extraction and identification of microplastics from biological samples, including avian and reptilian eggs.
  • Your work will be diverse and highly integrated, ranging from field-based sample collection to laboratory chemical digestions and fluorescence microscopy.
  • You will play a fundamental role in data management and science communication, helping us translate complex findings into peer‑reviewed manuscripts and engaging audio‑visual media for the public.

Qualifications

Applicants must have experience equivalent to Level 3 (BTEC/A Level) or above in a relevant field such as evolutionary biology or reproductive biology, along with excellent practical and theoretical knowledge and recent experience of wet lab protocols, microscopy, contaminant analysis, laboratory health and safety, managing tasks in both lab and field environments, and proven ability to collect and manage complex data.

Benefits

  • Highly competitive annual leave entitlement (with the ability to purchase more)
  • Generous pension scheme
  • Flexible working opportunities
  • Commitment to your development and wellbeing
  • Wide range of retail discounts

Diversity and Inclusion

We build teams of people from different heritages and lifestyles from across the world, whose talent and contributions complement each other to greatest effect. We believe diversity in all its forms delivers greater impact through research, teaching and student experience.

Technician: Research (Environmental & Evolutionary Biology) employer: University of Sheffield

The University of Sheffield is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation in the field of environmental and evolutionary biology. With a commitment to employee development, flexible working opportunities, and a generous benefits package, including competitive annual leave and a robust pension scheme, you will thrive in an environment that values your contributions and supports your professional growth. Join us in Sheffield, where you can make a meaningful impact on research while enjoying a diverse community and a range of retail discounts.
University of Sheffield

Contact Detail:

University of Sheffield Recruiting Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

We think this is how you could land Technician: Research (Environmental & Evolutionary Biology)

✨Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former employees at the University of Sheffield, especially in the School of Biosciences. A friendly chat can give us insider info and maybe even a referral.

✨Tip Number 2

Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of environmental stressors and their impact on biological systems. We want to see your passion for the field, so be ready to discuss relevant projects or experiences.

✨Tip Number 3

Showcase your skills! Bring examples of your previous work, whether it’s data management or lab techniques. We love seeing how you’ve tackled challenges in both lab and field settings.

✨Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we’re always looking for candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our vibrant research community.

We think you need these skills to ace Technician: Research (Environmental & Evolutionary Biology)

Laboratory Analysis
Fieldwork
Microplastics Extraction
Fluorescence Microscopy
Wet Lab Protocols
Contaminant Analysis
Laboratory Health and Safety
Data Management
Science Communication
Biological Sample Collection
Task Management in Lab and Field Environments
Complex Data Collection and Management

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that are relevant to the Technician role in Environmental & Evolutionary Biology. Highlight any lab work, field experience, and data management skills that align with what we're looking for.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about environmental research and how your background makes you a great fit for our team. Don't forget to mention specific projects or experiences that relate to the job.

Showcase Your Communication Skills: Since you'll be involved in science communication, it's important to demonstrate your ability to convey complex information clearly. Whether it's through your writing style or examples of past communication efforts, let us see your flair for making science accessible!

Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us without any hiccups. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our team there!

How to prepare for a job interview at University of Sheffield

✨Know Your Stuff

Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of environmental and evolutionary biology. Familiarise yourself with recent research in the field, especially related to microplastics and their impact on biological systems. This will show your passion and commitment to the role.

✨Showcase Your Skills

Prepare to discuss your practical experience with wet lab protocols and microscopy. Bring examples of past projects where you've successfully managed tasks in both lab and field environments. Highlighting your hands-on skills will demonstrate that you're ready to hit the ground running.

✨Communicate Clearly

Since you'll be involved in science communication, practice explaining complex findings in simple terms. Think about how you would present your work to a non-specialist audience. This will help you stand out as someone who can bridge the gap between research and public understanding.

✨Emphasise Teamwork

Collaboration is key in this role, so be prepared to discuss your experience working in teams. Share examples of how you've contributed to group projects and how you handle differing opinions. This will show that you’re not just a great technician, but also a team player.

Technician: Research (Environmental & Evolutionary Biology)
University of Sheffield

Land your dream job quicker with Premium

You’re marked as a top applicant with our partner companies
Individual CV and cover letter feedback including tailoring to specific job roles
Be among the first applications for new jobs with our AI application
1:1 support and career advice from our career coaches
Go Premium

Money-back if you don't land a job in 6-months

>