Chemical and Biological Lab Technician

We are a world class research-intensive university. We deliver teaching and learning of the highest quality. We play a leading role in economic, social and cultural development of the North East of England. Attracting and retaining high-calibre people is fundamental to our continued success.

The Role
Are you a hands-on laboratory professional looking to play a vital role in supporting world-class teaching and research

The School of Engineering at Newcastle University is seeking a motivated and proactive Chemical and Biological Laboratory Technician to join our friendly and highly skilled technical team within the School of Engineering. This is an exciting opportunity to work across a range of laboratory facilities, supporting both teaching and research, primarily in Environmental Engineering but also offering support to the labs in Mechanical Engineering and the wider school as and when required.

About the role
As part of a collaborative technical team, you will help ensure our laboratories run smoothly, safely, and effectively. Your work will directly support students, researchers, and academic staff, helping them deliver high-quality experimental work.

This is a varied, practical role where no two days are the same. You will be involved in:

• Preparing laboratories, equipment, and consumables for teaching and research activities.
• Supporting and guiding students during lab sessions.
• Delivering training and practical guidance on laboratory techniques and best practice
• Maintaining laboratory equipment and ensuring facilities are well organised.
• Managing stock, ordering consumables, and maintaining accurate inventories.
• Supporting health and safety processes, including risk assessments, SOPs, and waste management.

You may also have opportunities to support fieldwork and sample collection, working alongside researchers at off-site locations.

About you
We are looking for someone who enjoys practical problem-solving and takes pride in keeping lab environments running efficiently.

You will bring:

• Experience working in a chemical or biological laboratory environment.
• Knowledge of health and safety procedures, including COSHH and risk assessments.
• Experience supporting lab operations such as equipment maintenance, stock control, or lab preparation.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
• A positive, flexible approach and the ability to work both independently and as part of a team.
• Good communication skills, with confidence supporting students and colleagues.
• Experience with microbiological or molecular techniques and field sampling would be advantageous but not essential.

This is a full-time, open-ended position.

Benefits include an excellent pension; flexible working options; 42 days holiday (including public holidays and 4 University closure days); discounted travel for the Metro and local bus services; and discounts for national retailers.

For informal enquiries, please contact Shelagh Gunn, Technical Team Leader by email at shelagh.gunn@newcastle.ac.uk.

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