Details
1116729
University of Warwick
01/10/2026
Ongoing
36.5hrs a week
Not Applicable
Pay
£13.75
£1.66
Description
Role
You will assist in the process of setting out and preparing for undergraduate practical classes. This will involve preparation and distribution of sterile solutions, standard solutions, general reagents, materials and laboratory equipment under the instructions from senior technicians. You will work alongside technician colleagues, academics, demonstrators, and undergraduate students to ensure practical classes run smoothly. Working as part of the team and following training, you will also assist in the cleaning up after practical classes and ensure the safe and efficient disposal of all used materials such as glassware, plastics, biological and chemical wastes. It is vital that as a team we are presenting these classes in a calm, professional manner to ensure our students receive an excellent service and support to make this a great laboratory experience.
Duties and responsibilities
- In conjunction with other members of the undergraduate lab team, assist with the collaborative approach to planning for forthcoming practical classes.
- Preparation and distribution of sterile solutions, standard solutions, general reagents and materials for all undergraduate practical classes, under instruction from senior staff. Maintaining good standards of aseptic technique, good laboratory practice and ensuring health & safety of lab users.
- Setting out items required for laboratory classes and provide advice and assistance for staff and students in the operation of equipment. To be available to provide assistance, commensurate with the role, during the lab classes.
- Upon completion of practical classes ensure safe disposal of contaminated glassware and plastics, clean all work spaces and ensure that equipment is clean and working. Ensure Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) regarding waste streams, including chemicals, biological materials, glass and plasticware are adhered to.
- Work to H&S standards set by the department, University and by external regulatory bodies. Must Undertake/complete /update any Health & Safety training modules as requested by the University or the Teaching Laboratory Manager.
- Responding to requests for information and assistance from undergraduates, academics and postgraduates during practical classes, escalating to senior staff as required.
- Assist with administrative tasks such as the co-ordination of student registers, preparation of materials ready for classes and the updating of a variety of online records as appropriate.
- Ensuring that consumable stocks are appropriately replenished from central stores.
- Develop your own skills as part of continuing professional development.
- To provide flexibility to cover some roles in the absence of other staff members.
- Contribute to the maintenance and upkeep of laboratory equipment and infrastructure including raising request with school workshops or university estates to ensure that consumable stocks are appropriately replenished from stores.
- Servicing of equipment at the end of the academic year including liaising with the workshop over repairs needed.
The duties and responsibilities outlined are not intended to be an exhaustive list but provide guidance on the main aspects of the job. The postholder will be required to be flexible in their duties.
Skills and experience
- Vocational qualification NVQ Level 2 or 3 or education to A level or equivalent in life sciences subject or relevant experience in a similar or related role.
- Practical experience of microbiological, and biochemical techniques, to include good aseptic techniques.
- Experience in laboratory practices with respect to handling chemicals, safety in the workplace and lifting techniques.
- Knowledge of health and safety, good practice in a lab environment including an appreciation of COSHH regulations and SOPS.
- Ability to communicate clearly and effectively and be able to understand and follow verbal and written instructions accurately.
- Ability to work as part of the team and / or without direct supervision, and to work safely, accurately and flexibly.
- Ability to prioritise tasks and work to tight deadlines.
- Excellent attention to detail and record keeping skills.
- Knowledge of the various types of laboratory equipment (including consumables) used in undergraduate practicals.
- Good IT skills including Microsoft office and outlook.
Location
University of Warwick Campus, SLS Teaching Labs
Additional information
Closing Date: 06/09/26