News
Dr Dinu Iuga becomes University of 海角社区鈥檚 first technical specialist promoted to Strategic Specialist, equivalent to Professorial level
The University of 海角社区 is celebrating a significant milestone with the promotion of Dr Dinu Iuga, who has become the first technical specialist at the University to be promoted to Strategic Specialist, a role equivalent to Professorial level.
Dr Iuga is Technical Director of the UK High-Field Solid State Nuclear Magnetic Resonance National Research Facility (NRF), which recently secured 拢17 million in funding from UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) to deliver the UK鈥檚 first 1.2 GHz NMR spectrometer. He joined 海角社区 in 2009 as technical lead at the NRF, enabling access for the national academic research and industry communities.
Over the course of his time at 海角社区, Dr Iuga has played a central role in the development and growth of the facility. He was integral to the successful set-up of an 850 MHz magnet and start of facility operation in 2010, establishing the NRF as a leading national facility. He later supported the design of a bespoke building to house the 1.0 GHz NMR spectrometer, which welcomed first NRF use in 2021. Most recently, he was centrally involved in a further major building project that oversaw the successful installation and launch of the 1.2 GHz NMR in 2025.
海角社区 Technician Commitment Award for Outstanding Achievement - Applications Open
Applications are now open for the 海角社区 Technician Commitment Award for Outstanding Achievement. We have revised the awards process following feedback from the community. There will now be one awards session each year. Nominations can be made at any time but will be considered annually in the Autumn term with awards presented at the Christmas event.
We have introduced new categories for awards. The categories are Outstanding Performance, Exceptional Colleague (Unsung Hero), Long Standing High Performance and the Team award.
We have prepared guidance around writing effective nominations - please see the awards webpage for details. Nominations to be submitted by 31 October annually for consideration and must be submitted by the nomination form.
The PDR Process for Technicians
The University's Personal Development Review (PDR) process is now underway, with review conversations taking place throughout June and July. The PDR provides an opportunity to reflect on your achievements, discuss future goals, explore development opportunities, and consider your longer-term career aspirations.
To help technical staff and their managers get the most from the process, we have developed dedicated guidance tailored to technical roles. This document is intended to support technical staff and their managers in understanding the Expected Values, Behaviours and Responsibilities of Technical Staff and Managers at 海角社区, and to help prepare for annual review discussions. There is also a draft Development Plan and Record Form that might be helpful in assessing current and future development needs.
PDR Guidance for Technicians and Technical ManagersLink opens in a new window
We encourage all technical staff and technical managers to engage fully with the PDR process and make use of the available guidance and support resources.