Biology Sciences Research Technician

University of the West of Scotland – School of Health & Life Sciences

Lanarkshire Campus

Full time: 35 hours per week

Fixed term: 12 months

Unfortunately, this role is not eligible for visa sponsorship in line with Home Office requirements. Applicants will therefore be unable to secure a Skilled Worker visa for this role and will require an alternative source of right to work in the UK."

The post

The University of West of Scotland are recruiting for a Biology Sciences Technician to join the School of Health and Life Sciences on a 12 month fixed term basis. As an engaged and enthusiastic member of the Technical Team, the post holder will perform a range of operational tasks requiring specialist skills and knowledge, with special emphasis on Biological Sciences, in support of learning, teaching, and research and enterprise activity in the School.

Within this role the successful applicant will guide, support and advise small to medium groups of staff or students, in practical settings, with information of a specialist nature in areas of and not limited to; PCR, QPCR, Cell Culture, Microscopy. This involves explanations of Biological Sciences and interpretation of the concepts involved, to embrace theoretical conclusions. They will be involved in the preparation of facilities materials and equipment for use by students and staff, as required, in support of the academic/ research programmes.

The successful candidate should have the following:

• Educated to HND level in a relevant subject area or with equivalent experience in a similar role demonstrated through relevant and practical work experience (essential)
• Experience of working in Biological specialist laboratory facilities
• A previous history in providing support in a technical context specifically in Biological Sciences
• A working knowledge of relevant processes, systems and procedures
• Demonstrable experience of managing a broad-ranging workload with challenging and competing deadlines and delivering to agreed timescales, evident in a similar role
• Able to work collaboratively as part of a diverse and complex team

About us

University of the West of Scotland is one of Scotland’s largest and most dynamic modern universities. Our reach across the country, together with our London campus, means that UWS is a significant force in global knowledge creation, innovation, and a leading provider of undergraduate, postgraduate and research degree education. Our degrees provide students with a transformational experience; equipping them with highly sought-after graduate skills that set them up for global success in world-leading sectors, industries and businesses.

With cutting-edge courses, modern pedagogy and practical knowledge, we enable our students and staff to experience the joy of learning, teaching, research and innovation, and apply their knowledge for the benefit of others. 

UWS is officially ranked by Times Higher Education in the top 200 universities worldwide under 50 years old (2024 Young University Rankings).

The School of Health & Life Sciences at UWS offers innovative teaching and research opportunities, firmly focused on the real-world challenges facing the healthcare and life sciences sectors. You will join a supportive and committed team, where you will play a key role in continuing to establish the University as a force for good. Our students benefit from studying in modern learning facilities – among the very best in the country – and the strong links we have with partner organisations across the private, public and third sectors.

We offer our staff a caring and supportive environment, across five campuses, and a competitive benefits package which includes:

• 24 days of annual leave, plus a further 12 days for public/university holidays
• An additional days leave on your birthday
• Defined benefit contribution pension scheme (including death in service benefits upon joining the scheme  
• A flexible approach to working pattern and work-life balance
• Employee discount scheme across 3,500 retailers
• Fitness facilities across our campuses
• Access to a range of health and wellbeing resources, including occupational health, physiotherapy and access to our Employee Assistance Programme
• Professional, career and research development opportunities.

Interview date: Thursday 14^th May

Please note that the appointment will be made on the first point of the salary scale (unless by exception, where evidence would need to be provided)

The University reserves the right to shorten/extend the closing date of any position where a high/low volume of suitable applications are received. Therefore, if you are interested in this role, an early application would be encouraged.

You can find out more about how the University uses your personal data as part of the recruitment process by looking at the UWS HR Applicant Privacy Notice at www.uws.ac.uk

UWS are committed signatories to the Armed Forces Covenant.

UWS is committed to equality and diversity and welcomes applications from underrepresented groups.

UWS is a “Disability Confident” employer.

University of the West of Scotland is a registered Scottish charity, no. SC002520.