Senior Technician

The Research Platforms team, within the Research Infrastructure Section of Kew Science, provides researchers with access to both specialised and often high-cost equipment platforms (such as electron microscopy, mass spectrometry, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and flow cytometry) and centralised in vitro biology platforms (in vitro culture of plants, microorganisms, human cells and insects). The team is seeking a highly organised and technically competent Senior Technician with the adaptability to provide support across the various platforms on a demand-driven basis.

The post holder will contribute to the smooth running of the facilities with another Senior Technician and two Technical Managers, overseen by a Technical Operations Manager. The role will cover tasks ranging from general laboratory housekeeping to the provision of training and maintenance support on specialised scientific equipment. Although the work will be determined by demand, an emphasis on enhancing support within the Imaging platforms (light and electron microscopy; flow cytometry) and In Vitro Biology platforms (particularly the culture of plants and fungi) would complement existing skills and workloads within the team. When needed, the post holder would also be expected to assist other laboratory staff in the Core Facilities team who support research pipelines in general science, seed biology (including Kew’s seed bank) and molecular biology (DNA sequencing).

The Research Platforms team, within the Research Infrastructure Section of Kew Science, provides researchers with access to both specialised and often high-cost equipment platforms (such as electron microscopy, mass spectrometry, nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy and flow cytometry) and centralised in vitro biology platforms (in vitro culture of plants, microorganisms, human cells and insects). The team is seeking a highly organised and technically competent Senior Technician with the adaptability to provide support across the various platforms on a demand-driven basis.

The post holder will contribute to the smooth running of the facilities with another Senior Technician and two Technical Managers, overseen by a Technical Operations Manager. The role will cover tasks ranging from general laboratory housekeeping to the provision of training and maintenance support on specialised scientific equipment. Although the work will be determined by demand, an emphasis on enhancing support within the Imaging platforms (light and electron microscopy; flow cytometry) and In Vitro Biology platforms (particularly the culture of plants and fungi) would complement existing skills and workloads within the team. When needed, the post holder would also be expected to assist other laboratory staff in the Core Facilities team who support research pipelines in general science, seed biology (including Kew’s seed bank) and molecular biology (DNA sequencing).

Senior Technician

More details

You should have a minimum of a level 3 qualification (e.g. A levels) or equivalent, plus work experience in a relevant technical role OR considerable knowledge and skills gained through work experience in relevant technical or scientific roles. You must be highly organised to deal with multiple requests from different researchers, have the skills needed to maintain accurate record keeping and take pride in maintaining a clean, tidy and efficient laboratory and providing a high standard of technical service. A working knowledge of regulations (e.g. COSHH) and best practices in laboratories is essential. Some prior knowledge of relevant scientific equipment and techniques would be advantageous, but you must be able to apply learnt techniques in new areas following training. You should have the interpersonal and influencing skills required to maintain compliance among laboratory users and the clarity in spoken and written communication needed to train staff and students. The role will include lifting and/or moving tasks such as deliveries, equipment, gas cylinders and liquid nitrogen tanks.

The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew (RBG Kew) is a leading plant science institute, UNESCO World Heritage Site, and major visitor attraction. Our mission is to understand and protect plants and fungi for the well-being of people and the future of all life on Earth.

We are working to end the unprecedented extinction crisis and to help create a world where nature is protected, valued by all and managed sustainably. We will achieve these goals by drawing on our leading scientific research, unrivalled collections of plants and fungi, global network of partners, inspirational gardens at Kew and Wakehurst, and our 260 years of history.

Join us on our journey as protectors of the world’s plants and fungi.

The salary for this position is £34,216 per annum [Band C]

Our fantastic benefits package includes opportunities for continuous learning, a generous annual leave entitlement, flexible working to help you maintain a healthy work-life balance, an Employee Assistance Programme and other wellbeing support such as cycle to work scheme and discounted gym membership. We also offer a competitive pension, an employee discount scheme and free entry into a wide range of national museums and galleries, as well as access to our own beautiful gardens at Kew and Wakehurst.

If you are interested in this position, please submit your application through the online portal, by clicking “Apply for this job”.

At Kew, our strength lies in the diversity of our people and the insights they bring. When you join us, you will find an organisation that values your perspective and lived experience. You will receive support to achieve your full potential and access opportunities to develop and progress. Our commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion is ongoing, shaped by the people who work here and the communities we serve. As a disability confident employer, we are breaking down barriers to be an inclusive workplace for everyone.

Whoever you are, and however you experience the world, there is a place for you to grow and belong at Kew.

No agencies please.