Technical Specialist - Geochemistry and Geochronology Lab Manager

University of Glasgow; Glasgow; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player seeks a skilled technical manager to support researchers and students in the College of Science and Engineering. This role involves managing laboratory operations, ensuring safety compliance, and providing expert guidance in geochemical and geochronological research. The successful candidate will have a strong background in analytical equipment and sample preparation, along with excellent communication skills to train and supervise others. Join a vibrant academic environment where your expertise will contribute to advancing research and teaching initiatives.

Qualifications

• Competency in geological/environmental analytical research.
• Knowledge of rock and geochemical sample preparation.

Responsibilities

• Manage technical aspects of laboratories for geochronology and rock geochemistry.
• Train and develop users in technical procedures and supervise students.

Skills

Analytical geochemistry equipment operation

Geological sample preparation

Data analysis and reporting software

Analytical problem-solving

Strong communication skills

Education

Equivalent experience or qualifications

Recognised expertise in geological/environmental analytical research

Tools

Geochemical analytical equipment

Job description

Job Purpose

To provide comprehensive technical management and specialist expertise to support researchers, postgraduate, and undergraduate students in the College of Science and Engineering, particularly in the School of Geographical and Earth Sciences. The role utilises expert knowledge in specialist equipment for rock geochemistry and geochronology analytical research, including sample preparation. Additional duties involve planning, designing, and operating technical resources to acquire data, optimise research output, and improve operational systems and safety compliance.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

1. Manage all technical aspects of laboratories supporting geochronology and rock geochemistry research, including sample preparation, mineral separation, and safety systems.
2. Monitor equipment performance, troubleshoot complex issues, and provide guidance on analytical protocols and data interpretation.
3. Generate and interpret geochemical and geochronological data, advise on project costs and timelines, and manage sample preparation processes.
4. Train and develop users in technical procedures, supervise students, and support their learning outcomes.
5. Oversee laboratory operations, including procurement, budgeting, equipment installation, and resource management.
6. Contribute to research dissemination through publications, conferences, and developing new methodologies.
7. Stay updated on technical advances, advise on research projects, and maintain documentation and SOPs.
8. Ensure health and safety compliance, conduct inductions, and manage safety documentation.
9. Collaborate internally and externally to support research and teaching goals, and promote the university’s strategic initiatives.
10. Enhance the university’s international profile and undertake additional duties as assigned.

Knowledge, Qualifications, Skills & Experience

Essential:

• Equivalent experience or qualifications demonstrating competency in the role.
• Recognised expertise in geological/environmental analytical research.
• Knowledge of rock and geochemical sample preparation and equipment maintenance.
• Understanding of health and safety protocols relevant to laboratory activities.

Desirable:

• Knowledge of geochronological techniques such as U-Pb dating, fission-track, or (U-Th)/He analysis.
• Experience with rock digestion and chemical etching procedures.

Skills

• Proficiency in operating analytical geochemistry equipment.
• Expertise in geological sample preparation.
• Understanding of data analysis and reporting software.
• Analytical problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
• Strong communication skills, capable of training and supervising others.
• Ability to work independently and contribute to research strategy.

Experience

• Significant laboratory experience supporting research and teaching.
• Proven track record in producing high-quality analytical data.
• Experience with sample preparation of complex materials.
• Experience in research publication and presentation.
• Experience managing research budgets and resources.

For informal enquiries, contact [e-mail]