Technical Specialist

We are seeking an enthusiastic and proactive Technical Specialist (Reactor running/maintenance, and polymer/molecular characterisation) to support the EPSRC-funded REMOVE-UM project and wider polymer recycling activity. This is an exciting opportunity to provide specialist technical support for research, teaching and related operations in a dynamic Faculty environment. You will be responsible for:

• Commissioning, operating, maintaining and providing training on high temperature and pressure chemical reactor systems and related ancillary equipment.
• Preparing analytical samples and carrying out polymer and small molecule characterisation using techniques such as TGA, FTIR, GC-FID and HPLC.
• Providing high-quality technical advice, guidance and experimental support to staff, students, visitors and external customers.
• Working collaboratively with research teams, technical colleagues and stakeholders across the University to support teaching, research and operational planning.
• Maintaining high standards of health and safety, compliance and continuous improvement within laboratory and technical environments.
  
  Knowledge of and skills to manage, maintain and operate a high temperature and pressure chemical reactor systems.
• Demonstratable expertise and the skills required to carry out catalytic transformations.
• Practical and applied experience in the preparation of and analysis of polymer and/or molecular characterisation techniques (TGA, DSC, FTIR, GC-FID, NMR, GPC etc.)
• An ability to work both independently and collaboratively as a member of a multi-disciplinary team.
• An awareness and understanding of all relevant health and safety requirements in the workplace, including the application of specific legislative requirements such as risk assessments, operating procedures and COSHH, etc. in a laboratory environment., Experience in troubleshooting and maintaining complex laboratory equipment.
• Experience in experimental development using reactor systems.
• Experience of working with specialist IT packages/software e.g. ChemDraw, ChemStation, PPMS, LabCup, TRIOS.
• A PhD or advanced degree.
• Experience of managing projects e.g. procurement, equipment installations, etc.
  
  Our benefits include:
• Generous employer contribution pension
• 29 days annual leave plus bank holidays, along with Christmas closure
• Ride to work and EV car scheme available