CTU Technicican (Informatics)

JOB PURPOSE:

The post holder will be based in the Informatics Core Technology Unit (CTU) managed by the Faculty of Medicine, Health and Life
Sciences. They will work under the direction of the CTU Manager to provide an effective and efficient technical service for users of the facility.

MAJOR DUTIES:

1. Analyse information and report findings in regards to data generated by CTU users from differing data types. Also, to construct
robust methods of data analysis where required if data is novel.
2. Provide training, support, supervision and troubleshooting for end-users regarding all aspects of the informatics
software/programmes/scripts within the CTU and updated as required.
3. Assist with maintaining hardware and licences. This will include liaising with the other core units staff to keep up-to-date of new
instrument installations and likely downstream feature requirements and pipelines created.
4. Support the CTU Manager and/or end-users with the development of new informatics workflows and pipelines based on
knowledge and experience. Where necessary create new Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for this data analysis.
5. Liaise with the benefactors of the core unit with regards to the appropriate interpretations and methodologies employed in analytics performed.
6. Co-ordinate with Faculty clerical staff to ensure timely and efficient billing for use of equipment and time allocation on projects.
7. Support end-users with training in data backup and archiving.
8. Assist with the organisation and delivery of educational events and workshops linked to the CTU.
9. Contribute to the development of health and safety policies and ensure compliance in order to provide a safe working environment.
10. Under the guidance of the CTU manager, actively promote the informatics services provided by the CTU, both within and outside of the Faculty.
11. Disseminate relevant information to members of staff associated with the CTU, Faculty and University in a timely manner.
12. Attend training courses, on- and off-site, to maintain and expand expertise relevant to the post.
13. Actively participate in outreach activities associated with the CTU.
14. Contribute to and promote a positive and professional work environment/atmosphere.
15. Carry out any other duties which are appropriate to the post as may be reasonably requested by the CTU Manager/Faculty.

Planning and Organising:

1. Prioritise own work within a general plan to meet targets and deadlines.
2. Plan future work in consultation with the CTU manager.
3. Ensure all software and hardware is optimal and performant.
4. Establish an appropriate schedule of training for CTU users.

Resource Management Responsibilities:

1. Take delegated responsibility for the maintenance and repair of scientific equipment.
2. Carry out training for all users of the CTU.
3. Maintain a register of CTU users.
4. Maintain a log of use for billing purposes.

Internal and External Relationships:

1. Daily contact with CTU Manager, University staff (particularly members of the CTU User group) and students.
2. Liaison with external organisations (technology providers, contract research organisations etc).

ESSENTIAL CRITERIA:

1. *Academic and/or vocational qualifications ie OND/ONC and/or NVQ Level 3 in relevant subject (or equivalent).
2. *A minimum of three years recent relevant hands-on experience in statistical, mathematical or programmatical techniques.
3. *Experience of working to SOPs.
4. Good IT skills.
5. Specialist skills and knowledge relevant to the post.
6. Well-developed understanding of relevant regulations and procedures including Health and Safety requirements.
7. Good communication and interpersonal skills.
8. Proven ability to work with a range of individuals and groups.
9. Ability to develop and demonstrate standard equipment and techniques.
10. Ability to prioritise own work within a general plan to meet deadlines.
11. Ability to train users.
12. Ability to carry out practical laboratory tasks to a consistently high standard.
13. Analytical and problem solving skills.
14. Flexibility of working hours will be required for the role.

DESIRABLE CRITERIA:

1. *Degree level qualification or equivalent in a relevant subject.
2. *Experience with service provision in a CTU setting.
3. *Informatic experience in solving problems through installation or creation of pipelines/workflows.
4. *Experience of scripting languages and aware of high performance computing techniques.
5. *Experience in interpreting analysis and report generation.
6. *Experience in the use of statistical software such as R, STATA, SPSS etc.
7. An understanding of biological techniques and information generated.
8. Ability to deliver work to agreed deadlines.
9. Background interests that are compatible with the post.