Clinical Lab Technician (Fixed Term Contract)

Illumina; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading genomic technology company in Cambridge seeks a Clinical Lab Technician to support laboratory operations. This entry-level position involves performing tests and preparing samples for various laboratory workflows. Ideal candidates will have a BSc or relevant experience in molecular biology, and they will thrive in a team-oriented, purpose-driven environment. The role requires adherence to high-quality standards and compliance with ISO 15189 standards. Full-time position with a fixed-term contract ending December 2026.

Benefits

Inclusive work environment

Career development opportunities

Qualifications

• Theoretical understanding of next-generation sequencing technology.
• Some industry experience in a laboratory preferred.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine lab tests as assigned to high quality standards.
• Monitor lab consumables and re‑order as required.
• Perform general laboratory housekeeping tasks.
• Adhere to H&S procedures and risk assessments.
• Comply with the International Standard (ISO 15189).
• Contribute to overall team goals and targets.

Skills

Detail-oriented

Conscientious

Education

BSc strongly preferred

Molecular biology laboratory experience

Job description

What if the work you did every day could impact the lives of people you know or all of humanity?

At Illumina we are expanding access to genomic technology to realize health equity for billions of people around the world. Our efforts enable life‑changing discoveries that are transforming human health through the early detection and diagnosis of diseases and new treatment options for patients.

Working at Illumina means being part of something bigger than yourself. Every person in every role has the opportunity to make a difference. Surrounded by extraordinary people, inspiring leaders and world‑changing projects you will do more and become more than you ever thought possible.

Clinical Lab Technician – Fixed Term Contract

Hinxton Cambridge (Onsite)

Full‑time shift‑based (Mon–Sun 9 AM–5 PM)

Right to work in the UK is required; this role is not eligible for visa sponsorship.

Closing Date: 21st November 2025

Please note this role is a fixed‑term contract ending 31st December 2026, targeting a hire date as soon as possible, most likely January 2026.

At Illumina Laboratory Services (ILS) we are transforming healthcare by making whole‑genome sequencing part of everyday diagnostics for rare diseases, cancer and more. As a Clinical Lab Technician you’ll be at the core of that mission, supporting critical lab operations and development projects in our state‑of‑the‑art Cambridge facilities.

The Clinical Lab Technician role is essential for the smooth operation of ILS’s customer services. This position involves performing a variety of high‑quality tests, including whole‑genome sequencing, DNA extraction, and proteomic assays, with some workflows accredited to ISO 15189 standards. Additionally, the technician will support development projects such as whole‑transcriptome sequencing to introduce new tests into the service environment.

In this role you will be based in a laboratory setting, working as part of a team across two locations in Cambridge (Hinxton and Great Abingdon). You will employ various techniques, including DNA quantification, DNA and RNA library preparation, DNA sequencing using the NovaSeq platform, and DNA extraction. While some processes are highly automated with Hamilton Star and Tecan robots, others require manual bench‑top assays.

This is an entry‑level position where we are not just looking for someone to fill a role; we’re searching for someone who thrives in a purpose‑driven environment. Your work will help bring genetic testing to patients who need answers the most.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform routine lab tests as assigned to high quality standards and within defined timeframes.
• Monitor lab consumables and re‑order as required.
• Perform general laboratory housekeeping tasks.
• Adhere to H&S procedures and risk assessments, and follow Work Instructions and Standard Operating Procedures.
• Comply with the International Standard (ISO 15189) and QMS.
• Contribute to overall team goals and targets while maintaining individual output.

Preferred Requirements

• BSc strongly preferred OR some molecular biology laboratory experience required in lieu of a degree.
• A theoretical understanding of next‑generation sequencing technology.
• Some industry experience in a laboratory preferred but not required.
• Detail‑oriented and conscientious.

We are a company deeply rooted in belonging, promoting an inclusive environment where employees feel valued and empowered to contribute to our mission. Built on a strong foundation, Illumina has always prioritized openness, collaboration, and seeking alternative perspectives to propel innovation in genomics. We are proud to confirm a zero‑net gap in pay regardless of gender, ethnicity, or race. We also have several Employee Resource Groups (ERG) that deliver career development experiences, increase cultural awareness, and offer opportunities to engage in social responsibility. We are proud to be an equal‑opportunity employer committed to providing employment opportunity regardless of sex, race, creed, color, gender, religion, marital status, domestic partner status, age, national origin or ancestry, physical or mental disability, medical condition, sexual orientation, pregnancy, military or veteran status, citizenship, status, and genetic information.

Illumina conducts background checks on applicants for whom a conditional offer of employment has been made. Qualified applicants with arrest or conviction records will be considered for employment in accordance with applicable local, state and federal laws. Background check results may potentially result in the withdrawal of a conditional offer of employment. The background check process and any decisions made as a result shall be made in accordance with all applicable local, state and federal laws. Illumina prohibits the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI) in the application and interview process. If you require accommodation to complete the application or interview process please contact us.

The position will be posted until a final candidate is selected or the requisition has a sufficient number of qualified applicants. This role is not eligible for visa sponsorship.