Senior Technician in Analytical Chemistry

The Department of Archaeology, University of Reading, is seeking to appoint a Senior Technician to join its archaeological materials research group. The successful applicant will provide lead technical support for the group’s Microwave Plasma-Atomic Emission Spectrometer laboratory (MP-AES, a related technique to ICP-OES). Key roles include the preparation of samples, analytical standards, machine operation, and laboratory organization. The post holder will take part in the research discussions generated by the analytical data. This role is supported by a major new UKRI Future Leaders Fellowship research project, held by the PI Dr. Peter Bray, REMADE (Roman and Early Medieval Alloys Defined), which focuses on ancient copper-alloys. 

Candidates should refer to the Essential Criteria listed in the Person Specification linked to this advert, when preparing their supporting statements.

The post holder will be responsible for:

• The operation, troubleshooting and maintenance of an MP-AES and associated equipment. This will include the acid digestion of samples, preparation of calibration standards, and data quality assurance. This role also includes liaising with external engineers and manufacturers for services, IT hardware/software upgrades and repair visits.
• Laboratory Coordinator duties associated with the Research Group, providing oversight for equipment bookings, monitoring and maintaining excellent standards of housekeeping, hazardous waste management, stock keeping and ordering consumables.
• Assist in laboratory inductions and training in core laboratory safety equipment, to researchers and students.
• Provide some training in standard methods used in the preparation, extraction and analysis of samples generated by staff and students, for MP—AES and associated equipment.
• Assist researchers and students in method development for sample pre-treatments and analysis using MP-AES and associated equipment.
• Prepare and review Risk Assessments, Standard Operating Procedures and training records for core laboratory safety equipment, MP-AES and associated equipment, for Health & Safety auditing purposes.

You will have:

• A science degree, HND, NVQ4 or equivalent, or basic professional qualification in a relevant discipline (e.g., Analytical Chemistry, Archaeological science) or related (e.g., Soil Science, Botany, Physical Geography, Bioscience).
• Experience of ICP-OES, ICP-MS, or MP-AES analysis, (or a closely related technique).
• Extensive technical work experience acquired in relevant roles and job-related training.

Interviews will be held week commencing 27 March 2023 (TBC)

Informal contact details
Contact role: Project Lead Investigator
Contact name: Dr. Peter Bray
Contact phone: N/A
Contact email: p.j.bray@reading.ac.uk 

Alternative informal contact details
Contact role: Associate Director, Technical Services
Contact name: Dr. Karen Wicks
Contact phone: +44 (0)118 378 7758
Contact email: k.wicks@reading.ac.uk

Applications from job seekers who require sponsorship to work in the UK are welcome and will be considered alongside all other applications. By reference to the applicable SOC code for this role, sponsorship may be possible under the Skilled Worker Route.  Applicants should ensure that they are able to meet the points requirement under the PBS.  There is further information about this on the UK Visas and Immigration Website.

The University is committed to having a diverse and inclusive workforce, supports the gender equality Athena SWAN Charter and the Race Equality Charter, and is a Diversity Champion for Stonewall, the leading LGBT+ rights organisation. Applications for job-share, part-time and flexible working arrangements are welcomed and will be considered in line with business needs.

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