Call for Applications

Post of Laboratory Officer

Solar Research Laboratory - Institute for Sustainable Energy

The University of Malta is seeking to recruit a Laboratory Officer in the Solar Research Laboratory within the Institute for Sustainable Energy.

Eligibility

The grade of Laboratory Officer requires the post holder to be in possession of either:

• A relevant university degree (MQF Level 6) or;
• A relevant qualification at MQF Level 5 in the appropriate area (e.g. City and Guilds, HND or equivalent technical certificate from a technical institute); or
• At least one ‘A’ level in Physics and/or Chemistry and five ‘O’ level passes together with five (5) years relevant experience in a laboratory environment; or
• Five (5) years experience in the grade of Laboratory Assistant.

Applicants should have hands-on experience either in industry or in a laboratory environment. A chemistry background and/or experience with analytical instruments will be viewed as an asset.

Skills and Competencies

Ideally the candidate would have a good aptitude both for mechanical as well electrical challenges. The ideal candidate should be able to work under limited supervision and have good motivational skills. The ability to work in a team and a good level of spoken and written English are also necessary.

Salary Details

The annual salary of 2023 is €21,741 rising by annual increments of €375 up to €23,991. On completion of four years of service in this grade, the appointee will, on satisfactory performance, be entitled to move on to the next salary band with annual increments of €408 up to a maximum of €25,613. After a further period of two years, the appointee will on satisfactory performance be entitled to move on to the next band with annual increments of €447 up to a maximum of €27,369.

Application Procedure

Candidates are required to upload their curriculum vitae, certificates (certificates should be submitted preferably in English) and names and emails of three referees through this form: https://www.um.edu.mt/hrmd/workatum-general

Applications should be received by Sunday, 27 August 2023.

Late applications will not be considered.

Further Information

The Solar Research Laboratory within the Institute for Sustainable Energy is endeavouring to better understand the physical phenomena that directly influence the performance of photoactive materials while at the same time working on developing new solar materials. To this end, the Institute is seeking a Laboratory Officer in order to assist the research group. The appointee will be required to assist in the upkeep and maintenance of the equipment and facilities of the Solar Research Lab. The successful applicant will also be trained to operate analytical and synthesis equipment in the laboratory and be expected to learn how to operate this equipment independently.

The appointee will be required to assist in general laboratory duties, the purchase of equipment and consumables, attending to the needs of students performing practical work in the laboratory, perform laboratory administrative work and conduct scheduled maintenance work on equipment in the laboratory or as may be required by the University. 

The appointee may also be required to:

• Carry out duties related to preparation and assistance for research experiments and in all technical aspects related to laboratory work and research projects;
• Conduct pre-set full cycle experiments that start off from material preparation to analysis and documentation;
• Assist in the general maintenance and upkeep of the labs including set-up of systems as required;
• Conduct experiments requiring use of chemical etchants and other chemicals;
• Help in the construction of experimental teaching or research set-ups;
• Assist academic staff in procurement of laboratory items and teaching material;
• Assist staff and students in the use of computer technology and IT equipment;
• Assist in other duties as directed by the Supervisor.

The appointee may be asked to further their qualifications as may be required by the Institute and attend training sessions, do independent and online training, and learning as required.

The appointee is expected to work:

• on a full-time basis, and will not be allowed to engage in any other gainful employment without the permission of the Council; and
• at such places and during such hours as may be determined by the University authorities.

Selection Procedures

• The scrutiny of qualifications and experience claimed and supported by testimonials and/or certificates (copies to be included with the application).
• An invitation to short-listed candidates to a Selection Board interview.

Selection Process

The selection process will follow the document “Guidelines for Members of Selection Boards in the Recruitment of Administrative, Technical and Industrial Staff”

(https://www.um.edu.mt/hrmd/policiesprocedures).

In accordance with the guidelines, members of the Selection Board will establish the following selection criteria for the selection process:

• Relevant academic qualifications;
• Relevant work experience;
• Aptitude and suitability; and
• Performance in interview.

The appointment will be subject to a probationary period of six months, and to the provisions of the Statutes, Regulations and Bye-Laws of the University which are now or which may hereafter be in force.

Office of the University,

Msida, 7 August 2023

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