Vacancy: Technical Specialist / Technician at The University of York (Closed)

Department

The Department of Archaeology at the University of York is ranked 18th in the world in the QS rankings. We are based in King’s Manor in the heart of the historic city of York and at Heslington West campus. Our vibrant community consists of over 90 staff and over 600 students, with growing international representation. We carry out international, impact-oriented and interdisciplinary teaching and research of the highest quality through our strong network of partnerships. The student experience is of paramount importance to the Department and we maintain a high level of student satisfaction.  Equality, diversity and inclusion are at our core and we promote a collegial environment in which staff and students feel supported and valued.

You will join the world-renowned BioArCh group, a multi-disciplinary and engaging working environment with access to some of the latest technologies in the field. BioArCh has dedicated DNA and protein laboratories and access to the University’s technology facility with instrumentation for protein mass spectrometry and genomics. You will work closely with the ancient DNA and palaeoproteomic groups and be key to the delivery of cutting-edge projects working on archaeological materials — from human bone to artefacts to plant remains. 

Role

We seek to appoint a Technician or Technical Specialist to support research in the area of  ancient biomolecular analysis specialising in DNA, proteins or both. Read the Job Descriptions carefully to understand the difference between the roles, and submit your application accordingly. The role will contribute to or manage the day-to-day operations of the DNA and proteomic laboratories and will contribute to the wider needs of the Department of Archaeology in collaboration with the Senior Technical Team Manager.

Skills, Experience & Qualification needed

• Degree, or equivalent relevant experience (grade dependent)
• Broad understanding and in-depth knowledge of specialism of the relevant safety legislation & regulations (grade dependent)
• Knowledge and understanding of scientific research methodology
• Knowledge and understanding of the specific challenges of archaeological science (grade dependent)
• Up-to-date theoretical and practical knowledge of ancient DNA methodologies (grade dependent)

• Proven track record in the application of technical skills in a laboratory (grade dependent)
• Proven ability to work independently with initiative, using problem solving and analytical skills
• Excellent IT and analytical skills using a range of specialist software
• Ability to present complex ideas in a clear and concise manner
• Competent in the operation and maintenance of relevant equipment
• Ability to analyse and interpret complex data (grade dependent)
• A high standard of written and verbal communication skills in English
• Excellent time-management skills; ability to prioritise work in response to deadlines
• Ability to contribute to specification documentation for the procurement and service of equipment (grade dependent)
• Competent in statistical and mathematical methods for analysis, and able to provide scientific data in written format for publications (grade dependent)
• Demonstrable in-depth experience in the relevant specialism (grade dependent)
• Experience working within an academic or research environment
• Experience  working on own initiative
• Experience training others in lab techniques and equipment

Interview date: TBC

For informal enquiries: Contact Richard Hagan richard.hagan@york.ac.uk

The University strives to be diverse and inclusive  – a place where we can ALL be ourselves.

We particularly encourage applications from people who identify as Black, Asian or from a Minority Ethnic background, who are underrepresented at the University. 

We offer family friendly, flexible working arrangements, with forums and inclusive facilities to support our staff. #EqualityatYork