Heritage Science Technician (Fixed term)

University of Nottingham; United Kingdom; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Nottingham is seeking a specialist for their new clean laboratory suite focusing on Heritage Science. The role includes developing operational workflows, training staff, and managing laboratory activities, requiring a PhD and relevant technical expertise in archaeological science.

Benefits

Career development opportunities through ITSS

Qualifications

• Proven technical experience in relevant techniques and equipment management.
• Experience in a laboratory environment.
• Knowledge of laboratory regulations and procedures.

Responsibilities

• Develop workflow for the Nottingham Heritage Science Gateway.
• Oversee the day-to-day running of the new clean suite.
• Provide technical supervision and training.

Skills

Communication

Problem Solving

Manual Handling

Education

PhD in archaeological science

Tools

Microsoft Office

Job description

Closing Date
Thursday 24 July 2025

Interview Date
To be confirmed

Reference
ARTS143525X1

Following £1.6 million UKRI-investment in our Archaeological Science Laboratories, we are delighted to offer this exciting opportunity to bring specialist technical expertise to our new AHRC-funded clean laboratory suite to facilitate Heritage Science research and commercial projects across UoN. The clean suite is currently being built, and the role holder will have input into equipment purchasing and development of the Facility. Knowledge of archaeological science (aDNA sample extraction, analysis or bioinformatics, incremental sampling for isotope analysis, ZooMS, tracewear analysis, ceramic petrology or other relevant technique) is highly desirable.

The clean laboratory, alongside our 6 existing Archaeology laboratories, forms part of the new Nottingham Materials and Environmental Science for Heritage Laboratory (N-MESH) initiative which has members across all five University of Nottingham Faculties. Find out more about N-MESH and the broader UoN facilities available here: https://www.nottingham.ac.uk/arts/research/multidisciplinary-research-and-knowledge-exchange/n-mesh/n-mesh.aspx

Your role will require you to:

• Work closely with the leads to develop a clear workflow for the Nottingham Heritage Science Gateway (NHSG) and across the N-MESH network, and to develop the capabilities of the new clean suite for academic and commercial use.
• Plan and oversee the development and subsequently the day-to-day running and upkeep of the new NHSG clean suite, ensuring all Health and Safety requirements are adhered to.
• Provide technical supervision/training in the use of equipment and techniques to relevant staff/students/researchers.
• Undertake marketing, conduct analysis and write reports as required for the NHSG facility.
• Collate data for reporting on access and activities to the NHSG and N-MESH facilities.

Your role will be varied and involve communicating with a wide range of people across the School and University as well as externally and you will have:

• A flexible approach and the ability to build relationships and collaborate with others.
• A proactive approach to work, with excellent problem-solving and people skills.
• Good manual handling and lifting skills, as your role will involve storing and moving consumables and equipment.
• Proven technical experience in relevant techniques and equipment management and experience of working in a similar role or in a teaching laboratory environment.
• Ideally, knowledge of an appropriate scientific field/ specialism, such as (but not limited to) aDNA sample extraction, analysis or bioinformatics, incremental sampling for isotope analysis, ZooMS, tracewear analysis, ceramic petrology.
• Knowledge of regulations and procedures governing laboratory work and the implications of non-compliance.
• Knowledge of Microsoft Office tools and other basic IT and audio-visual related kit/ software.
• A PhD in archaeological science, heritage science analysis or substantial work experience in a relevant role.

The University of Nottingham hosts the UK Institute for Technical Skills and Strategy (ITSS) and the successful applicant will have further opportunities for career development through the ITSS. The Department of Classics and Archaeology is friendly and inclusive and we particularly welcome applications from people currently under-represented at UoN and in archaeology more broadly, e.g. people with disabling conditions, and people from Black, Asian or minority ethnic backgrounds.

This role is offered as full-time (36.25 hours per week) on a fixed term contract from 1 September 2025 until 31 March 2031, with the possibility for extension depending on renewal of grant funding. Due to the nature of the role the successful candidate will normally be expected to work in person full-time. Job share arrangements may be considered. Requests for secondment from internal candidates may be considered on the basis that prior agreement has been sought from both your current line manager and the manager of your substantive post, if you are already undertaking a secondment role.

Shortlisting is anonymous: we cannot see any personal data or the 'Additional Information' section in your application until shortlisting is completed. Shortlisting is by criteria-based questions, rather than a CV or letter.

Informal enquiries may be addressed to Dr Holly Miller ( [e-mail] ). Please note that applications sent directly to this email address will not be accepted.