Laboratory Technician – Food Structure

Job Description

Main Purpose of the Job

The Laboratory Technician should provide a high standard of technical support to academic and research staff in the Quadram Institute.

The post holder will maintain working areas following protocols, good laboratory practice and to support the ‘Food Structure and Bioaccessibility Facility’. They will be involved in analysis of food samples, including metabolic analysis, biophysical analysis, particle size distribution measurements, and texture analysis. They will also be providing general support for in vitro digestion and fermentation experiments, maintain and calibrate the equipment and liaise with the Lab Manager regarding equipment maintenance and service.

The post holder will need to be able to understand and conform to Health and Safety requirements, write standard operating procedures, and train staff to use the equipment.

Key Relationships

The appointed Laboratory Technician will report to Lab Manager, Andrea Hinkova, and will be part of a broader team of laboratory technicians / attendants fulfilling different roles within the Quadram Institute. They will also work with other scientific researchers including PhD Students, Postdoctoral Researchers and Group Leaders to support delivery of scientific objectives. Some aspects of the role will require the post-holder to engage with external service providers, including, for example, working with engineers for maintenance and troubleshooting of specialist scientific instruments.

Main Activities & Responsibilities

Management of Food Strcuture and Bioaccessibility Laboratory Facility Routine operation, maintenance, calibration of and record-keeping for laboratory equipmentEnsuring the laboratory is kept in good order and work adheres to health and safety regulationsWorking with scientists, providing training on operation of specialised scientific equipmentWrite and maintain standard operating procedures and risk assessments for laboratory equipmentLiaise with engineers for equipment maintenance, troubleshooting and calibrationUndertake data collection, data processing and support the scientific research process as agreed with scientists and line managerMonitor and maintain gas cylindersResponsible for maintaining adequate stock levels and identifying items for purchase to maintain agreed stock levelsAs agreed with line manager, any other duties commensurate with the nature of the role

Person Profile

Education & Qualifications

RequirementBSc / MSc in Biochemistry, Food Science, Chemistry or related area

Specialist Knowledge & Skills

RequirementAbility to solve problems and troubleshootExperienced user of MS OfficeKnowledge of biochemical and / or structural analyses

Relevant Experience

RequirementExperience working in a laboratory environmentPrevious experience with quality control processes and reportingOperation and / or maintenance of scientific instruments

Interpersonal & Communication Skills

RequirementExcellent organisation and time-management skillsGood interpersonal skills, with ability to work as part of a teamGood communication skills, both written and verbal

Additional Requirements

RequirementAttention to detailAble to present a positive image of self and the istitute, promoting both international reputation and public engagement aims of the instituteWillingness to embrace the expected values and behaviours of all staff at the Institute, ensuring it is a great place to work Accurate working and record-keeping Willingness to work outside standard working hours when requiredPromotes equality and values diversity