The Technicians’ Network at the University of Leeds is run for technicians, by technicians and we welcome involvement from all technical staff.
In 2018 the University pledged to support the Technician Commitment for any technical staff based in faculties. The Technician Commitment is a university and research institution initiative, that aims to ensure visibility, recognition, career development and sustainability for technicians working in higher education and research, across all disciplines.
The University of Leeds employs nearly 400 technicians, based in faculties (both on and off campus) who provide a variety of specialist skills and knowledge that enhances the teaching and research capabilities of our institution. There are also technical staff based in the Facilities Directorate and IT teams.
The Technicians’ Network aims to support the technical community through regular networking activities, Technically Speaking news articles and regular communication. Technicians are welcome to join our TEAMS Technicians’ Network.
The University of Leeds is a Science Council Employer Champion. Through this scheme we aim to provide support for technicians who wish to apply for Professional Registration.
Professional Registration
This is an independent recognition of an individual’s professional achievements, skills and knowledge with an emphasis on continued development.
Application for Professional Registration is made either through an online form or face-to-face meeting, each route requires providing evidence. Membership of a suitable professional body is also required as well as maintaining your Continual Professional Development (CPD). Guidance and advice is available throughout the application process.
Previously the University has been able to contribute up to £150 for initial registration and membership fees. Please contact your local Technician Champion to find out if financial support is currently available.
Join our TEAM - Technicians Network to discover hints and tips provided by technical staff who have professionally registered.
HEA Fellowships
The University can provide support and guidance for technicians wishing to apply for a HEA Fellowship. These are available to anyone involved in teaching whether in a formal setting or providing training to postgraduate students.
The Technician Commitment at the University of Leeds
Please view our Technician Commitment Action Plans below, and the accompanying Review letters from the Technicians Commitment Steering Board:
The University have appointed a Technician Commitment Steering Group who have oversight of all Technician Commitment activities. The Steering Group is made up from technical managers, technician representatives, academics, Human Resources representatives and Organisational Development and Professional Learning representatives. The Steering Group has a direct reporting line to the University Executive Group.
All activities are co-ordinated by the Technician Commitment Working Group. This group is the interface with the technical community and is made up of Technician Champions, technical managers, other interested technical staff and representatives from Organisational Development and Professional Learning. The working group co-ordinates all communication and networking activities.
We encourage technicians to take advantage of our HEATeD and NTDC membership, and the training and networking opportunities they provide.
Full details of membership of these groups is described in the Self-Assessment and Progress document above from the 31 March 2021.
The Science Council’s CPD Awards, “A Celebration of Science” and Sir Gareth Roberts Lecture 2022:
“Powering the Future- A research and innovation system for the 21st Century”
A report by Michael Brookes
Technical staff from the University of Leeds joined colleagues from across the UK to discuss Research Culture, Net Zero and Careers at an in-person conference held at Newcastle University.
