Cell Bank Technician

Avantor; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 24,000 - 32,000; Full time

Job summary

Avantor in Cambridge is seeking a hands-on Cell Bank Technician to support the management and storage of cryopreserved cell lines in a specialist cryogenic environment. The role involves intake, storage, distribution, and ongoing operational improvements within a collaborative scientific setting.

You will work closely with scientists and suppliers to ensure accurate records, compliance with SOPs, and safe handling of materials, including liquid nitrogen.

Qualifications

• GCSE in science subject required.
• A-levels or practical experience preferred.
• Experience with inventory management, tracking systems and IT/software applications.
• Experience in a customer-focused, service-driven environment advantageous.
• Laboratory experience or SOP/regulatory familiarity would be beneficial.
• Interest in digital tools, automation, or AI is an asset.

Responsibilities

• Handle cell lines throughout their lifecycle: receipt, inventory, labeling, storage, tracking, dispatch, return and disposal.
• Retrieve and prepare cell lines from cryogenic storage, including manual handling of cryotank components.
• Coordinate distribution of cell lines to internal labs and external/international locations.
• Maintain accurate records using inventory/tracking systems; communicate with stakeholders.
• Manage Cell Banking inventory including cell boxes, cryoshippers, CryoPods.
• Support housekeeping, safety reporting and continuous improvement initiatives.
• Assist with implementation of operational and procedural improvements.

Skills

Attention to detail

Excellent communication

Multitasking

Collaborative teamwork

Customer-focused

Self-motivated

Education

GCSE in science subject

A-levels or relevant practical experience

Tools

Inventory management software

IT/software proficiency

Job description

The Opportunity

Are you looking for a hands-on role supporting cutting-edge scientific research? As a Cell Bank Technician, you will be based on-site at our client’s facility in Cambridge, playing a key role in the management and storage of cryopreserved cell lines within a specialist cryogenic environment. Working closely with scientists, suppliers, and colleagues, you will support the intake, storage, and distribution of cell lines while helping to ensure smooth day‑to‑day operations. You will also contribute to continuous improvement projects, implement new procedures, and uphold the highest standards of safety and compliance. This is an excellent opportunity for someone who enjoys operational laboratory support, working collaboratively with scientific teams, and making a direct impact on research activities.

Key Responsibilities

• Handle cell lines throughout their lifecycle, including receipt, inventory management, labelling, storage, tracking, dispatch, return, and disposal.
• Retrieve and prepare cell lines from cryogenic storage, including manual handling of cryotank components.
• Coordinate the distribution of cell lines to internal laboratories and external/international locations.
• Maintain accurate records using inventory and tracking systems and communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders.
• Manage Cell Banking inventory, including cell boxes, cryoshippers, and CryoPods.
• Support general housekeeping, safety reporting, and continuous improvement initiatives within the facility.
• Assist with the implementation of operational and procedural improvements.

Qualifications & Experience

• GCSE (or equivalent) in a science subject required.
• A-levels or relevant practical experience preferred.
• Experience with inventory management, tracking systems, and general IT/software applications.
• Experience in a customer‑focused, service‑driven, or operational environment is advantageous.
• Laboratory experience, STEM qualifications, or experience working to SOPs and regulated standards would be beneficial.
• Interest in digital tools, automation, AI, or related technologies is an advantage.

Skills & Competencies

• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Excellent communication and problem‑solving skills.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and adapt to changing requirements.
• Confident working collaboratively with cross‑functional teams and external partners.
• Customer‑focused mindset with a professional approach.
• Self‑motivated, reliable, flexible, and eager to learn new processes and technologies.

Working Environment

This role is primarily based within a scientific laboratory environment, with some office‑based activities. The position involves working with biological research samples and cryogenic materials, including liquid nitrogen and dry ice. The role requires standing, walking, bending, reaching, and occasional lifting of materials weighing up to 20kg.

EEO Statement

Avantor is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We do not discriminate in hiring on the basis of sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religious creed, national origin, physical or mental disability, protected Veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/province, or local law. If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please contact us by email at [e-mail] and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Requests for accommodation will be considered on a case‑by‑case basis.