Research Technician (Air Pollution)

University of Birmingham - School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences

Location: Birmingham

Salary: £29,647 to £31,460 Grade 5

Hours: Full Time

Contract Type: Fixed-Term/Contract

Placed On: 9th October 2025

Closes: 23rd October 2025

Job Ref: 104955

Full time starting salary is normally in the range £29,647 to £31,460, with potential progression once in post to £35,388

Contract Type: Fixed Term contract up to March 2030

Background

Candidates are sought for a research-related position to run the instrumentation in a highly advanced atmospheric observatory. The successful candidate will undertake varied duties in support of Professors Harrison, Bloss and Shi and their teams in this Defra/NERC-funded project. The post holder will be responsible for day-to day operation of the Birmingham Air Quality Supersite (BAQS), located on the University north campus. BAQS comprises a large range of state-of-the-art instruments for measuring key components of the atmosphere, relevant both to public health and to research in atmospheric science. This well-supported but challenging role requires dedicated laboratory work using highly advanced techniques in which training will be given. The post holder will work closely with our large and distinguished atmospheric science research team to collect, process and report scientifically robust data in support of high-end research.

Experience in field experimental work or laboratory-based instrumental analysis of pollutants would be beneficial, but the motivation and practical aptitudes of the candidate are also highly rated attributes. The University is committed to enabling the career progression of technicians through opportunities for continuing professional development and mentoring, including through the Birmingham Technical Academy.

Main Duties

• Operation, maintenance and calibration of automatic analysers for atmospheric measurements.
• Maintenance of experimental infrastructure for the collection of atmospheric samples using standard sample collection protocols.
• Follow Standard Operating Procedures and develop modified and new procedures, if required, to deliver data with high standard of quality control.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and COSSH forms for relevant procedures within the project.
• Download and archive data from the instruments on a regular basis.
• Work closely with the atmospheric science research team to ensure complementarity and smooth field and laboratory measurement campaigns.
• Maintain instruments and facility in a safe, well-maintained and well managed condition.
• Provide data to the atmospheric science research team as required.
• Ensure all instrument faults are identified promptly and dealt with, including working with instrument manufacturers to repair them.

Person Specification

• A BSc or MSc in a physical science, environmental science or engineering discipline.
• Experience of laboratory analysis of trace environmental chemicals and/or field methods in atmospheric science, or in a related area.
• Knowledge of technical and scientific methods stated above and Good Laboratory Practice gained through extensive experience and/or formal qualification.
• Courtesy in dealing with others.
• Ability to organise and manage own work load and demonstrate flexibility in terms of work practices/requirements.
• Ability to work independently but also function as part of a team.
• Appreciate importance of safety and quality in the role
• Ability to process data using standard statistical techniques would be advantageous.

Informal enquiries can be made to Roy Harrison, email: r.m.harrison@bham.ac.uk

To download the full job description and details of this position and submit an electronic application online please click on the 'Apply' button above.