Technician for Aquatic Research Facility

Location: Kedleston Road, Derby, DE22 1GB

Salary: £27,280 to £29,634 per annum (for exceptional performers, there is scope for further progression up to £34,090 per annum)

Contract Type: Fixed Term 12 months

Here at University of Derby, the College of Science and Engineering is the home of Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths: the STEM skills that are essential to the UK’s Industrial Strategy. From digitisation to decarbonisation, we have an important role to play in shaping the future. And by researching or collaborating with us, you can too. 

The Aquatic Research Facility specialises in dedicated research into animal behaviour, welfare and understanding/treating disease. We currently house systems with tropical stony corals and seagrass (both tropical and temperate species). In this facility we offer a unique opportunity to participate in internationally relevant/recognised research and work with world leaders in the field of aquarium research and coral/seagrass biology. 

About the Role

We are seeking a Technician to support academic, research, and outreach activities -particularly in relation to our Indonesian Project - within the Aquatic Research Facility. This varied role involves close collaboration with academic staff and the Technical team to ensure smooth delivery of teaching, research, and enterprise initiatives.

Key responsibilities include supporting the care, breeding, and welfare of aquatic animals, maintaining and operating equipment, and providing hands-on research assistance for undergraduate and postgraduate student projects. You will also contribute to the supervision and training of student employees and volunteers, help with the construction and installation of new apparatus, and manage stock levels and resources.

The role requires a strong commitment to health and safety, including drafting risk assessments and ensuring regulatory compliance. A willingness to undertake relevant training and development is essential, as is the ability to work collaboratively and flexibly as part of a dynamic technical team.

About You

We are looking for a knowledgeable and experienced individual with a strong background in marine biology to support practical activities. The ideal candidate will hold a degree in a scientific discipline, or have equivalent experience.

Key experience includes supporting practical and fieldwork, working directly with animals, and having knowledge of seagrass and coral biology. You will be a team player with the ability to manage and lead a dynamic, multicultural team of early-career researchers.

This role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to impactful research in marine ecosystems while supporting the development of young scientists in an engaging and collaborative environment.

Key Contact

For further information and informal enquiries regarding the role, please contact Mike Sweet, Professor of Molecular Ecology via m.sweet@derby.ac.uk 

For enquiries regarding your application and for sponsorship eligibility, please contact the recruitment team via recruitment@derby.ac.uk

Important Information

The University is unable to sponsor the employment of international workers under the Skilled Worker route for this role; however, applications are welcome from candidates who are able to demonstrate an alternative right to work in the UK.

Please visit our website for more information.

For more information and to apply on-line, please click the above “Apply” button.

Advert Closes: Wednesday 23 July 2025

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