Paul Baker's story

I first joined the University in 2012 as a trainee technician in the School of Biological Sciences. Now a Senior Technician, I provide teaching support as well as indirect research support. There's a huge variety of work: prepping equipment and solutions, showing students how to use equipment and demonstrating techniques during term time, and assisting with the maintenance of research labs throughout the year.

I like the variety within the School of Biological Sciences, as well as the people I work with. If you're part of a good team - and I certainly am - it means you've got a great place to work.

One of the things I really enjoy about Reading is the flexibility. For example, over the summer months I take advantage of flexible working hours - called compressed hours - so I work from 8:00 until 6:00, four days a week during the summer, and that's something I really appreciate.

I'm also supported in continuing my professional development, and recently I received a Science Council CPD (Continuing Professional Development) Award because of my training and development achievements. I think if there's something you're interested in doing - and it's relevant to your role - you should flag it, because there's no harm in asking.