Algal Research Technician

About The University

Swansea University is a research-led university that has been making a difference since 1920. The University community thrives on exploration and discovery and offers the right balance of excellent teaching and research, matched by an enviable quality of life.

Our stunning waterfront campuses and multicultural community make us a desirable workplace for colleagues from around the world. Our reward and benefits, and ways of working enable those who join us to have enriching careers, matched by an excellent work-life balance.

About The Role

Working hours: 21 per week

Contract: Up to 31/03/25

The post holder will join a team of researchers and technical staff for the Algal Research Group, providing support to proceed with algal cultivation, downstream processing and biochemical analysis and appropriate equipment operation. The duties will include also preparation of media, maintenance of algal cultures, operation of algae production & harvesting systems and associated instrumentation, and record keeping. The post holder will operate algal production systems on Singleton campus at Swansea University and at industry Bluestone Brewery partner sites.

The main duty will be :

1. Preparation of algal culture media and maintenance of algal master cultures under sterile conditions, involving the use of specialised equipment (including laminar flow cabinets, autoclaves). Includes the preparation of special (i.e. not generally commercially available) materials compounds and solutions
2. Routine operation of algal production systems, including: System preparations and pre-checks, including disinfection of vessels and culture solutions; preparation of record sheets
3. Inoculation of production systems in small scale (250mL) to large scale more than 1,000L
4. Biological monitoring and recording (measurement of algal cell abundance, biomass, shape and presence / absence of contaminants), involving the use of specialised equipment such as Coulter Counter and turbidimeter.
5. Measurement and recording of water and algal biomass composition parameters using spectrophotometers, colorimeters and handheld instruments

Equality, Diversity & Inclusion

The University is committed to supporting and promoting equality and diversity in all its practices and activities. We aim to establish an inclusive environment and welcome diverse applications from the following protected characteristics: age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race (including colour, nationality, ethnic and national origin), religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation.

As an inclusive and welcoming workplace, we value people for their skills regardless of their background. Applications are welcome in Welsh and will not be treated less favourably than those submitted in English.

Welsh Language Skills

The Welsh language level required for this role is Level 1 - A little. The role holder will be able to pronounce Welsh words, answer the phone in Welsh (good morning/afternoon) and use very basic everyday words and phrases (thank you, please etc.). Level 1 can be reached by completing a 1 hour course.

The University is a proud bilingual institution, our Welsh Language Strategy outlines our aspiration to promote the language and enable our staff to engage with the language as an additional workplace skill and as a gateway to new cultural and social opportunities. Applications are welcome in Welsh and will not be treated less favourably than those submitted in English. Welsh speakers have the right to an interview in Welsh. Applicants for a role where Welsh skills are essential are expected to present their application in Welsh and will be interviewed in Welsh, if shortlisted.

Additional Information

Applications for this role will take the format of a CV submission and cover letter.

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