Associate Scientist

SPT Labtech; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading technology company in Cambridge is seeking an Associate Scientist for liquid handling and volumetrics testing on a 3-month contract. This role involves performing testing, maintaining equipment, and collaborating with engineers and scientists. A Bachelor's degree in a relevant field and laboratory experience are essential. The company offers a competitive salary and benefits, prioritizing diversity and inclusivity.

Benefits

Private medical insurance

Generous pension plan

Annual discretionary bonus

Qualifications

• Experience with pipetting and liquid handling in a laboratory setting.
• Basic understanding of laboratory measurements and statistical analysis.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively.

Responsibilities

• Perform volumetric testing of automated liquid handling instruments.
• Operate and maintain automated pipetting platforms.
• Record experimental procedures and analyze test data.

Skills

Attention to detail

Problem-solving

Organisational skills

Written and verbal communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in a relevant field

Tools

Automated liquid handling systems

Job description

Overview

We're looking for a motivated and detail-driven Associate Scientist - Liquid Handling & Volumetrics Testing to join our R&D team on a 3 month fixed term contract. This is a great opportunity for a Scientist to gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge automated liquid handling technologies. In this role, you'll play a key part in ensuring our products perform at the highest level through volumetric testing, performance verification, and insightful data analysis.

Location: Based in Melbourn, Cambridgeshire, United Kingdom. We make products that transform the way scientists work and support research in liquid handling, sample preparation, and sample management.

Responsibilities

• Perform volumetric and gravimetric testing of automated liquid handling instruments under defined protocols.
• Operate and maintain automated pipetting platforms, liquid handling workstations, and associated laboratory equipment.
• Prepare reagents, calibration solutions, and test plates to support experimental activities.
• Record experimental procedures, results, and deviations accurately in laboratory notebooks or electronic systems.
• Analyse test data for precision, accuracy, reproducibility, and compliance with performance specifications.
• Identify and troubleshoot basic operational issues with instruments and assist in implementing corrective actions.
• Collaborate with engineers, scientists, and QA to refine test methods and suggest improvements to product performance.
• Follow all relevant safety, quality, and regulatory procedures. Excellent manual dexterity and precision when working with small volumes and delicate instrumentation.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to troubleshoot effectively.
• Good organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple experiments in parallel.
• Clear and confident written and verbal communication.
• A proactive attitude with the willingness to learn and adapt in a fast-paced, evolving R&D environment.

Essentials

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e.g., Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biomedical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or related).
• Experience with pipetting and liquid handling in a laboratory setting (academic or industry).
• Basic understanding of laboratory measurements, calibration, and statistical analysis.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to data integrity.
• Ability to work both independently and in a team environment.

Desirable

• Experience with automated liquid handling systems (e.g., SPT Labtech, Tecan, Hamilton, Beckman Coulter, or similar).
• Familiarity with gravimetric and colourimetric assay techniques for volume verification.
• Basic programming or scripting skills for instrument control or data processing.
• Knowledge of Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) or ISO quality standards.

Our commitment to you

You'll be working with smart professionals in a motivated and driven team. We offer a competitive salary package and comprehensive, valued benefits, including private medical insurance, a generous pension plan, and an annual discretionary bonus. We embrace diversity and inclusivity, regardless of race, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, physical ability, or family status. We prioritise supporting our employees' diverse needs as we strive for excellence together. If the above resonates with you, apply with an up-to-date CV and be a part of our journey to reshape the future of science.