Do you enjoy working in science laboratories and have an interest in environmental research
Wererecruiting two Laboratory & Logistics Technicians to join our small collaborative laboratory team at our Edinburgh site.Youllbe part of our Air QualityImpactsand Responses group which studies the effects of ammonia on ecosystems airqualityand human health. The teams work directly supports UK government policy and regulation by improving understanding of ammonia emissions their sources (both natural and human-made) and how their impacts can be reduced.
Our laboratory team pride themselves in delivering an outstanding service to their colleagues and external partners. This includes high-quality chemical analysis preparing scientific materials and managing thelogisticsof equipment used at air quality monitoring sites across the UK.
Reporting to theEnvironmental Analytical Chemistyoullsupportcutting-edgeenvironmental science in a practical hands-on role. Working closely within thisfriendly and supportive teamyoullbe involved in preparingshippingand managing these bespoke air qualityequipment(Air sampler systems for environmental monitoring UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology)used to measure ammonia in the atmosphere. These samplers are deployed by UKCEH fieldworkers and a wider monitoring network that includes partner organisations local authoritiesfarmersand agricultural consultants.Youllalso carry out laboratory analysis of returned air samplers ensuring data is accurately recorded andsubmitted. This is a steady essential role that contributes directly to nationally important environmental monitoring and research.
Your main responsibilities will include:
Prepare laboratory reagents solutions equipment and other scientific resources
Coordinate packing and shippinglogisticsfor monitoring sites
Collate and prepare samples for laboratory analysis
Operate laboratory instruments and carry out a range of laboratory tasks
Manage data and report results accurately
Maintain laboratory stock and resources
Support laboratory research experiments
Maintain a safe working environment by following established laboratory procedures
Youllhave some foundation experience working in a laboratory environment and take pride in following and improving procedures to ensureaccuratehigh-quality data - though full training will be provided.
For the role ofLaboratory and Logistics Technicianwerelookingfor somebody who has:
Scottish Higher or A-Level qualifications in Chemistry Physics or Biology
Previousproven experience working in alaboratoryenvironmentfollowing protocols recording data andreportingwith akeeninterest in developingyourlaboratory skills
Aninterest in environmental science particularly air quality
Strong communicationskills - both written and verbal are essential along with the ability to work inclusively and collaboratively with a diverse team
Strong attention to detail and the ability to reliably follow written protocols
Excellent organisation and time management
Desirable (but not essential):
Undergraduate degree or equivalent in a relevant discipline
Understanding of health and safety procedures including COSHH and good laboratory practice
Experience in packing and shippinglogistics including import/export documentation
You should enjoy working as part of a team learning through shadowing and training opportunities and actively contributing to a positive and inclusive working environment. More importantly were looking for your enthusiasm curiosity and eagerness to contribute to environmental research.
Most importantlywerelooking for someone who brings a positiveattitude a keen interest in our work and the motivation to do their job to the best of their ability.
Youllbe joining a leading independent not-for-profit research institutethatscommitted to recruiting talented people like you progressing your career and giving you the support you need to thrive at UKCEH.Our science makes a real difference enabling people and the environment to prosper and enriching society. We are the custodians of a wealth of environmental data collected by UKCEH and its predecessors over the course of more than 60 years.
Working for UKCEH is rewarding
We appreciate the continuous dedication and contributions of our staff which is why we provide a comprehensive benefits package that includes financial incentives and wellbeing-orientedperks such as:
27 days annual leave (rising to 29 days after 5 years service) plus 3 days for Christmas closure
10% employer pension contribution
Flexible and hybrid working arrangements (role dependant)
Peer reward and recognition scheme
Dental insurance gym/fitness discounts retail discount portal
Enhanced maternity and paternity leave
24-hour 365-day support with physical mental social health or financial issues and much more...
Apply today!
If this opportunity resonates with you and aligns with your career goals the team would be delighted to receive your application. Please apply by submitting your CV and a Supporting Statement following the instructions below.
Supporting Statement Questions
Please answer the following questions below providing up to 100 words per question. Use specific examples from your experience and focus on your personal contribution and impact (Please do not submit a cover letter - your responses to the questions below will be used in place of a cover letter)
1. Laboratory Skills
Describe your experience preparing reagents operating instruments handling samples and recording data in a laboratory. How do you ensure accuracy follow protocols and maintain high-quality results
2. Multitasking and Organisation
Provide an example of when you handled multiple tasks at once. What did you do to keep operations running smoothly
3. Teamwork and Communication
Describe a time you worked effectively within a team including colleagues or external partners. How did you communicate share information and contribute to a positive and inclusive working environment
At UKCEH we are committed to fostering an inclusive andequitableworkplace where everyone - regardless of background identity ability or circumstance -has the opportunity tothrive. As a Disability Confident employer we actively encourage applications from neurodivergent candidates and those with disabilities. We are happy to provide any adjustments or support you may need throughout the application process - pleasedonthesitate to reach out. So ifyoureexcited about this role but your experiencedoesntalign perfectly with every requirementwedlove to hear from you anyway. You may be just the right fit for this role or another within our wider team.
Please note:Unfortunately we are unable to offer visa sponsorship for thisroleand this does not qualify for endorsement to support a Global Talent Visa application. If you are considering pursuing self-sponsorship pleaseindicatethis in your application so we can take it into account during the recruitment process.
Required Experience:
IC
UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology is a world-class research organisation focusing on land and freshwater ecosystems