Technician - Food and Nutrition

University of Reading; Reading; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Reading is seeking a technician to join the Food and Nutrition Department, focusing on research into indoor farming. The role involves analytical chemistry techniques and offers opportunities for publication. Candidates should have relevant degrees or experience and technical laboratory skills.

Qualifications

• Degree or practical experience in analytical chemistry required.
• Laboratory technical experience is essential.
• Basic knowledge of Microsoft Office for document preparation.

Responsibilities

• Support project on indoor lettuce cultivation through sample processing and analytical techniques.
• Compile data for research publications and receive training on specific equipment.

Skills

Analytical Chemistry

Laboratory Technical Experience

Microsoft Office

Education

Degree in Food Sciences, Nutritional Sciences, Agricultural Sciences, Chemistry or related field

Job description

By reference to the applicable SOC code for this role, sponsorship may be possible under the Skilled Worker Route. Applicants wishing to consider the SWR must ensure that they are able to meet the points requirement before applying. Successful candidates not already holding a Skilled Worker visa issued before 4th April 2024 will need to qualify as a new entrant before being able to be sponsored. There is further information about visas on the UK Visas and Immigration Website.

Please see the job description and personal specification for further details.

The closing date for applications is 23.59 on 8th June 2024.

Interview date - TBC.

Join the Food and Nutrition Department at the University of Reading

This is an exciting opportunity to work at one of the UK's top 10 Universities for Food Science. You will collaborate with researchers and academics on important research into the chemistry of indoor farmed lettuce, focusing on making indoor farming more efficient and sustainable.

We are looking to appoint a technician with an analytical chemistry background to support the project 'Optimising Genetics by Management (GxM) Interactions to Enhance Productivity and Quality in Indoor Lettuce Cultivation'.

Responsibilities include sample processing and analytical techniques such as LCMS and GCMS. Other techniques like ion chromatography and enzyme analysis may also be involved. You will compile data for research publications, where you will be a named author. Training on specific equipment and techniques will be provided.

Candidate Requirements

• A degree in food sciences, nutritional sciences, agricultural sciences, chemistry, or a related field, or practical experience in analytical chemistry.
• Laboratory technical experience.
• Basic knowledge of Microsoft Office, capable of preparing documents and recording results.

Candidates should refer to the Essential Criteria in the Person Specification linked to this advert when preparing their supporting statements.

We welcome applications from both external and internal candidates. The role can be considered on a seconded basis for current staff; internal candidates should discuss this with their line manager prior to applying.

Contact Information

Dr Martin Chadwick
Senior Postdoctoral Researcher
Email: [e-mail]

Prof. Carol Wagstaff
Dean of Research
Email: [e-mail]

The University is committed to diversity and inclusion, supports the Athena SWAN and Race Equality Charters, and champions LGBT+ equality. We are a Level 2 Disability Confident Employer. Applications for job-share, part-time, and flexible working arrangements are welcomed and will be considered in line with business needs.