Technician Teaching & (UK Visa Sponsorship)
Job Description
Overview of the Role
The University of Reading is seeking a Laboratory Technician to support teaching and practical work within the School of Archaeology, Geography and Environmental Science (SAGES). This is a unique opportunity for candidates with a background in physical earth sciences, environmental science, or archaeology to join a research-led institution that ranks No. 1 in the UK for Archaeology research (REF 2021) and is highly regarded in Earth Systems and Environmental Science.
As part of a small, dynamic technical team, you will work alongside academics, researchers, and students to deliver hands-on teaching, maintain laboratory facilities, and support practical research projects. Your work will contribute to understanding global challenges including climate change, natural disasters, and historical human impacts.
Key Responsibilities
You will:
- Maintain and organise a large teaching laboratory used for undergraduate and postgraduate practicals.
- Set up, take down, and demonstrate laboratory practicals for students.
- Support portable field equipment used in field classes.
- Assist students with project and dissertation work in laboratory settings.
- Process soil, water, plant, seed, and microbial samples for teaching purposes.
- Order and manage laboratory equipment and consumables.
- Occasionally provide support to other Technical Services teams during semester practicals.
- Training will be provided in specialist techniques and use of analytical instruments, including ICP-OES, GCs, MP-AES, Elemental Analysers, Spectrophotometers, and Ion Chromatography.
Who We Are Looking For
We are seeking candidates with:
HNC, AS/A-Level, NVQ3, or equivalent in Chemistry, Biology, Environmental Science, Physical Geography, or a related discipline. A degree with less practical experience is also suitable.
- Technical laboratory experience in teaching, research, or commercial settings.
- A willingness to work collaboratively and contribute to student learning and research.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to maintaining accurate records.
You should be motivated to develop your technical skills and support a vibrant academic community, ensuring high-quality teaching and research outcomes.
Why Work With Us
Joining the University of Reading means being part of a diverse, inclusive, and supportive environment. Technical Services is a founding signatory of the Technician Commitment and an Employer Champion, dedicated to staff development and equality.
We follow best practices aligned with UK government guidance on:
- Health & Safety in Laboratories: HSE Lab Safety Guidance
- Equality and Diversity: Workplace Equality
- Employment Rights: Your Rights at Work
- Environmental Regulations in Fieldwork: Environment Agency Guidance
- Skilled Worker Visa eligibility: UK Visa Information
We also welcome flexible working arrangements, applications from underrepresented groups, and are a Disability Confident Employer (Level 2).
How to Apply
Applications should be submitted through the University of Reading recruitment portal by 23:59 on 18 January 2026. Please refer to the Person Specification for guidance on preparing your supporting statement. Candidates selected for interview will receive a short tour of the laboratory facilities on the day of their interview.
