Animal Technician

Cpl Life Sciences; London; On-site; GBP 26,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading biotech company is seeking an experienced Animal Technician in East London to support R&D in genetic diseases research. The role requires significant hands-on experience with laboratory mice, the ability to perform various in vivo procedures, and a clear focus on animal care and welfare. Ideal candidates will have at least 2–3 years of relevant experience, a suitable educational background, and a Home Office Personal Licence.

Qualifications

• Minimum 2–3 years’ experience working with laboratory animals, ideally mice.
• Valid Home Office Personal Licence (PIL A & B required; C preferred but not essential).
• Prior experience in ophthalmic techniques and molecular biology methods is beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Carry out in vivo procedures to assess vision in mouse models.
• Maintain and manage mouse colonies.
• Draft and develop Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

Skills

Attention to detail

Teamwork

Time Management

Education

A-levels or BTEC in a relevant scientific discipline

Job description

Job Title: Animal Technician

Location: East London

Salary: Competitive, depending on experience

Cpl Life Sciences is collaborating with a clinical-stage biotech that specialises in genetic diseases. They are looking to hire an experienced Animal Technician on a permanent-basis. The ideal candidate will have previous experience in testing procedures and will provide technical support for in vivo mouse experiments and assist with laboratory activities within the R&D department, contributing to research in vision-related disorders.

Key Responsibilities:

• Carry out in vivo procedures to assess vision in mouse models of retinal disease, including techniques such as electroretinography (ERG), scanning laser ophthalmoscopy (SLO), optical coherence tomography (OCT), and behavioural vision testing.

• Administer drugs using various methods including oral gavage, intraperitoneal (IP), intravenous (IV), and intraocular injections.

• Collect and process tissue samples for histological and molecular analysis.

• Maintain and manage mouse colonies, including breeding, genotyping, and routine monitoring.

• Track and restock laboratory supplies, place orders, and coordinate sample and consumable shipments between sites.

• Assist in drafting and developing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).

• Support lab cleanliness and maintenance across procedural and wet lab areas.

Core Competencies:

• Proven hands-on experience with laboratory mice in a fast-paced research setting.

• Strong attention to detail, especially when following protocols involving animal care and welfare.

• Highly motivated with the ability to set goals, work through challenges, and strive for high standards.

• Organized with good time management and ability to prioritize tasks effectively.

• Professional conduct under pressure with respect for colleagues and workplace responsibilities.

• Clear and confident communicator, both verbally and in writing.

• Willingness to contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.

• Flexible and cooperative, with the ability to adapt to changing workloads and work across multiple research sites in Central London.

• Prior experience in ophthalmic techniques and molecular biology methods (e.g. PCR, tissue culture) is beneficial but not required—training will be provided.

• Timely and budget-conscious completion of experiments and assigned tasks.

• Accurate data collection and maintenance of documentation.

Required Background:

• Minimum 2–3 years’ experience working with laboratory animals, ideally mice, and preferably within a contract research or R&D environment.

• A-levels or BTEC in a relevant scientific discipline.

• Valid Home Office Personal Licence (PIL A & B required; C preferred but not essential).