UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH WALES
PRIFYSGOL DE CYMRU
Faculty of Computing, Engineering and Science
Advanced Anaerobic Processes and Biogas Systems - KTC Laboratory Assistant (Ref: CES053)
Grade E, *£27,318 - £31,644 per annum
*appointment will be made to the minimum of the grade
Fixed Term until 31st December 2014
External Vacancy
The Faculty of Computing, Engineering and Science are seeking a KTC Laboratory Assistant to undertake supervised research projects and provide support to the delivery team for the A4B funded KTC for Advanced Anaerobic Processes and Biogas Systems. The post is required to support all laboratory based aspects of the project including the installation, commissioning and operation of new equipment, in addition to the use of existing equipment to support collaborative research efforts. The successful candidate will support the project team in the delivery of collaborative research projects by undertaking routine analytical and research activities, and assist with the collation and interpretation of technical data.
The successful candidate will join the team delivering the Knowledge Transfer Centre for Advanced Anaerobic Processes and Biogas Systems (AAPBS) funded by the A4B Programme (Supported by the Welsh Government and the ERDF Convergence Programme):
The project extends the activities of the Wales Centre of Excellence for Anaerobic Digestion which has been providing technical support to the AD industry since 2008. The project mission statement is to support organisations developing and deploying advanced or integrated biogas processes, or components of these processes, and in so doing to:
a. deploy new or improved processes or products based around anaerobic and biogas processes
b. intrinsically support businesses deliver advancements in anaerobic and biogas processes with reduced costs and increased environmental performance
c. instigate commercial opportunities throughout the supply chain
d. instigate investment in R&D and deployment of innovations in advanced anaerobic and biogas processes across the world
e. encourage inward investment, specifically within Wales
f. develop a world renowned Centre of Excellence for Anaerobic Digestion with an increased portfolio of clients and collaborators
This post is fixed term until 31st December 2014.
The terms and conditions of the post (including grade and salary) will be those of the University of South Wales (based on former University of Glamorgan terms and conditions).
CLOSING DATE: Thursday, 27th March 2014
JOB DESCRIPTION
JOB TITLE: KTC Laboratory Assistant – CES053
Fixed Term contract until 31st December 2014
GRADE & SALARY: Grade E, *£27,318 - £31,644 per annum
*appointment will be made to the minimum of the grade
DEPARTMENT: Faculty of Computing, Engineering and Science
Responsible to: Dr. Sandra Esteves *(Director of the Wales Centre of Excellence for Anaerobic Digestion)
Main Purpose of Job:
The KTC Laboratory Assistant is responsible to undertake supervised research projects and provide support to the KTC delivery team. The successful candidate is required to assist the laboratory manager and other project staff with the delivery of all laboratory based aspects of the KTC. This will include the commissioning of approximately £620,000 of new laboratory equipment intended to dramatically increase the scope of technical assistance that the AD Centre can offer to the industry. The position will also require the development of methodologies for the use of the equipment as well as ongoing operation and maintenance. Under the guidance of the laboratory manager and the direction of the project manager and project director, the laboratory assistant will also undertake or participate in industrial collaborative research projects focussed on the provision of laboratory services.
Principal Responsibilities and Duties:
· To assist the laboratory manager with the delivery and commissioning or testing of all equipment procured under the project
· To assist with the development of methodologies appropriate for the anaerobic digestion industry and the formalization of these as standard operating procedures with appropriate risk assessments
· To assist the Laboratory Manager with the completion of analytical / pilot / technical studies utilizing the equipment procured or other facilities available as part of the delivery of collaborative research projects
· Analysis of data and reporting to a professional standard as required by industrial collaborators
· To contribute, if required, to introductory courses and use of research tools and equipment.
· To undertake continuous personal and professional development which contributes to knowledge and skills within the subject area
· To comply with University policies relating to health and safety, equality of opportunity and data management
· Any other duties as maybe assigned from time to time commensurate with the grade
PERSON SPECIFICATION
SKILLS AND ABILITIESEssential / Desirable
a) Skilled and able to undertake supervised research which might include preparing, setting up, conducting and recording outcomes of projects, experiments, field work, etc
b) Excellent organisational, oral (English) and written (English) communication skills
c) Demonstrate good team working skills
d) Able to work in an interdisciplinary environment
e) Able to learn rapidly across disciplines / m) Ability to run laboratory processes for the physical and chemical treatment of biomass
n) Ability of defining techniques for analysing treated biomass
o) Ability to perform complex chemical analysis.
p) Ability to write technical reports
KNOWLEDGE
Essential / Desirable
f) Knowledge of analytical, design and operational techniques relevant to the biotechnology sector in general / q) Knowledge of the anaerobic digestion process and associated industrial processes
r) Knowledge of monitoring and control systems of biological processes
EXPERIENCE
Essential / Desirable
g) Experience of carrying out laboratory based experimental work related to biochemical processes
h) Experience in project work as part of a team
i) Experience of compiling information from various sources and writing findings and results / s) Experience of using a number of chemical analytical techniques and using various instrumentation to monitor and control biochemical processes
t) Experience of working with a variety of academic / commercial stakeholders
TRAINING
Essential / Desirable
j) A 2:1 honours degree or higher in a relevant chemistry/biology based science or chemical engineering discipline / u) Postgraduate studies in a science or engineering discipline or appropriate industrial experience
OTHER REQUIREMENTS
Essential / Desirable
k) Able to work proactively, autonomously with self-motivation and discipline
l) Good time management and ability to work to deadlines / v) Driving license
It is essential that when making an application, candidates specifically address the criteria set out in the Person Specification. This information will be used in deciding those to be shortlisted.