Volunteer with Manchester Museum to inspire school pupils – ongoing applications

by | Jan 17, 2020

Calling all UoM Science Postgraduate and Undergraduate Students: Conservation in genetics workshop callout at Manchester Museum – Volunteer Positions

The Manchester Museum is looking for volunteers to assist with a newly created genetics workshop for secondary schools and college students, highlighting basic laboratory techniques, namely PCR and gel electrophoresis. The session uses preserved amphibian specimens from the Manchester Museum Vivarium for a new and completely unique workshop. The session includes a visit to the Museums Vivarium Gallery, where students are invited to a special introduction to some of the galleries rarest, and exclusively behind-the-scenes inhabitants.

Who Are We Looking For?
We are looking for undergraduate and postgraduate students or recent graduate volunteers with a background in zoology, ecology, environmental biology or similar discipline who are looking to gain experience working in a lab environment. Applicants do not need previous lab experience, but a basic understanding of genetics and/or herpetology is an asset. Volunteers must be available to commit to one full day induction session. Following the induction volunteer time slots are typically between 10-12pm and 1-3pm.

What Will You Do?
This session offers the opportunity for volunteers to take on the roles of teaching assistants. You will assist in distributing materials throughout the session, and aid in answering questions from students and teachers.

Applicants should:

  • Be able to speak enthusiastically about their subject
  • Be able to communicate complex concepts in an approachable and engaging manner
  • Be interested in inspiring pupils to explore further study
  • Have excellent communication skills, preferably with experience of presenting to secondary or college students
  • Be organised, self-motivated, reliable and keen to work with groups of up to 30 secondary or A-level students
  • Be flexible and able to commit to dates up to one month in advance
  • Have experience in conservation (but not essential)
  • Have some teaching experience (not essential)

What you will get in return

  • Flexible lab experience around your studies to suit you
  • Fantastic public engagement and teaching experience
  • An official letter of recommendation/reference from the Manchester Museum
  • Skills development – A chance to develop transferable CV skills such as team work and decision making to help with career development

Please apply by completing the online application form via this link – the application process is on a rolling basis. If you are unsure whether you are eligible for one of the above role please contact Barinur Rashid, Secondary and Post-16 Co-ordinator (Science): Email: Barinur.rashid@manchester.ac.uk or Tel: 0161 306 1764