Applications are sought for a committed Research Technician to maintain, develop and support a suite of highly specialised analytical facilities in the geochemistry laboratories in the School of Earth & Environmental Sciences at the University of St Andrews. The lab facilities include several mass spectrometers with peripherals, a LA-LIBS system, sample prep space, and a wet chemistry lab. The primary duties of the research technician will be to maintain and operate the instruments, undertake troubleshooting and repairs when required, develop and optimize analytical methods, manage purchase orders, train users and oversee safety protocols.
We particularly seek an individual with strong expertise in plasma-source instruments - both solution and laser based - and associated clean sample preparation techniques to support the (LA-)ICP-MS (Agilent QQQ 8900 and Element 2) and MC-ICP-MS (Nu Plasma) instruments. Additional experience in gas-source mass spectrometry would be useful but is not required. The technician would be expected to help with maintaining the gas-source mass spectrometry facilities of the school as required.
The successful applicant will have a PhD degree in Earth Sciences, Chemistry or Physics with expertise in analytical sciences.
This is a permanent position, starting as soon as possible.
St Andrews offers more than just a place to work—it is a place to belong. We value collegiality, inclusion, and wellbeing, and we are committed to creating a workplace where staff can thrive and perform at their best.
In addition to the salary on offer for this position, there are a wide range of benefits for staff working at the University of St Andrews. The package for the Research Technician includes:
- Financial contribution torelocation (subject to eligibility)
- Membership of the USS Pension Scheme with generous employer contributions of 14.5%
- A hybrid working environment, including partial homeworking where appropriate and a range of family friendly policies supporting work life balance
- Staff discount scheme for local and national goods and services
- Free staff parking, employee Carshare and Cycle to Work Schemes and subsidised local bus travel
- Subsidised sports membership, reduced tuition fees on degree programmes for staff, access to training and development opportunities including LinkedIn Learning, access to library facilities, salary sacrifice scheme
- 34 days annual leave plus 5 public holidays
At St Andrews, equality, diversity, and inclusion are central to who we are and form a core pillar of our University Strategy. We are committed to creating a fair, inclusive and supportive workplace, reflected in our participation in national diversity charters and awards, including Athena Swan, Carer Positive and the Race Equality Charter.
We particularly welcome applications from people from Black, Asian, minority ethnic and minority religions backgrounds and from LGBTQ+ and disabled people.
School of Earth and Environmental Sciences
School/Unit: School of Earth & Environmental Sciences
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Research Technician - TG1321 in St Andrews employer: University of St Andrews
The University of St Andrews is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that prioritises collegiality and wellbeing. With a strong commitment to employee growth, staff benefit from generous pension contributions, hybrid working options, and extensive professional development opportunities, all while contributing to impactful research in global health and infection biology. Located in the historic town of St Andrews, employees enjoy a supportive community and a range of benefits designed to enhance work-life balance and personal fulfilment.
