Lead Technical Instructor in Future Materials

About the Role

We are seeking an experienced, adaptable, and highly motivated individual to manage the Future Materials - Casting, Composite and Bio Technology Department at the Royal College of Art. These workshops are at the forefront of material innovation, and this is a unique opportunity to lead a small multidisciplinary team of technical experts with specialisms in Mouldmaking, Casting, Composites, Biomaterials and Biotechnology development. This role seeks to further develop the strong culture of positive interdisciplinary collaboration across the RCA and lead in supporting student, staff and research projects within these specialisms. 

Location 

The RCA Kensington Campus, beside the historic Royal Albert Hall and Kensington Gardens. 

What are we looking for?

We are looking for someone who thrives in a fast paced environment and is passionate about problem solving through hands on teaching and learning. The ideal candidate will have:

• A strong background in mould making, casting, and composite materials, with a deep commitment to supporting experimental and practical work across a diverse range of materials and processes. 
• Experience providing highly skilled technical assistance, guidance and instruction for a wide variety of making processes to support complex project development.
• Experience managing and administering for the effective day-to-day operations within a similar workshop space. 
• The ability to motivate, lead and line manage a small team of dedicated technicians to ensure the effective provision and availability of specialist equipment, processes and work areas. 
• A keen interest in Biofabrication and technologies, and the future of material development.
• A forward-thinking approach, with a focus on innovation and the continued advancement of these specialist areas.
• A commitment to high-quality outcomes for both staff and students and a passion for experimental work and collaborative learning.

What will the job involve?

This role is based onsite in the Future Materials Workshop at the RCA’s Kensington campus and involves the day-to-day management of the space, including the line management of a small technical team. You will be responsible for ensuring the effective provision and availability of specialist equipment and work areas to support academic delivery, student learning, research, and knowledge exchange. The role requires planning, organising, and delivering high-level technical instruction, demonstrations, and guidance, while also supporting and managing technicians to do the same. You will take an active lead in maintaining and improving health and safety standards, ensuring best practices are consistently applied. 

Administrative responsibilities include budgeting, purchasing, task allocation, supervision, and performance management through regular reviews and the College’s appraisal process. Working closely with Master’s students, you will support independent research and experimental work across a wide range of materials and processes, fostering a culture of peer-to-peer learning and continuous development within a collaborative technical team.

Please see the Information Pack for further details of this exciting new role.  If you would like further details or an informal chat about the role, please contact Natalie Murphy - Technical Coordinator, Intelligent Manufacturing & Research Resourcing, via email: Natalie.Murphy@rca.ac.uk.  You are also invited to submit a portfolio of your work with your application form.

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