Technician – Food and Nutrition Uk Visa Sponsorship

Job Description

Technician – Food & Nutrition Department

Location: University of Reading
Department: Food and Nutrition
Contract Type: Full-Time
Application Deadline: 23:59, 8 June 2024
Interview Date: To Be Confirmed

About the Role

This is an exciting opportunity to join the Food and Nutrition department at the University of Reading, ranked among the UK’s top 10 universities for Food Science. We are seeking a motivated and technically skilled Analytical Chemistry Technician to support a pioneering research project:
“Optimising Genetics by Management (GxM) Interactions to Enhance Productivity and Quality in Indoor Lettuce Cultivation.”

You will work alongside researchers and academics to investigate the chemistry of indoor-farmed lettuce, contributing to sustainable and efficient agricultural practices. Your primary responsibilities will involve sample processing and the application of analytical techniques including LC-MS, GC-MS, ion chromatography, and enzyme analysis. You will be expected to compile results into publishable formats, with the opportunity to be credited as a named author.

Training in specialised techniques and equipment will be provided as required.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct sample preparation and analysis using LC-MS, GC-MS, and other relevant techniques
• Support data collection, interpretation, and preparation of research outputs
• Maintain accurate records using Microsoft Office applications
• Ensure laboratory procedures adhere to safety and quality standards
• Collaborate closely with the research team, contributing to the overall success of the project

What We’re Looking For

• A degree in Food Science, Nutritional Science, Agricultural Science, Chemistry, or a related discipline – or equivalent practical experience in analytical chemistry
• Proven laboratory experience, particularly in a research or analytical setting
• Familiarity with Microsoft Office (Word and Excel) for documentation and data logging
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team
• A commitment to scientific accuracy and meticulous record-keeping

For full details, please refer to the Job Description and Person Specification attached to this advert. Please ensure your supporting statement addresses the Essential Criteria.

Visa Sponsorship (Skilled Worker Route)

Sponsorship under the Skilled Worker Route (SWR) may be possible for this role, subject to eligibility under the relevant SOC code.

• Applicants must ensure they meet the points-based requirements before applying.
• Successful candidates who do not already hold a Skilled Worker visa issued before 4 April 2024 must qualify as new entrants to be eligible for sponsorship.

For more details, please visit the UK Visas and Immigration website.

Internal Applicants

We welcome applications from both internal and external candidates. Current University staff may be considered for this role on a secondment basis. Internal applicants should discuss this with their line manager before applying.

Contact Information

Primary Contact:
Dr Martin Chadwick, Senior Postdoctoral Researcher – m.chadwick@reading.ac.uk

Alternative Contact:
Prof. Carol Wagstaff, Dean of Research – c.wagstaff@reading.ac.uk

Our Commitment to Equality

The University of Reading is committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive workforce. We proudly support the:

Athena SWAN Charter (Gender Equality)

Race Equality Charter

LGBT+ Equality initiatives

We are a Level 2 Disability Confident Employer. We welcome applications for job-share, part-time, and flexible working arrangements, which will be considered in line with business needs.

This role offers a fantastic opportunity to contribute to meaningful research with real-world impact. We look forward to receiving your application.