Laboratory Support Assistant

NRL Recruitment; Babraham; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 30,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading biotech organization in Cambridge is seeking a Laboratory Support Assistant to ensure efficient lab operations. The candidate should have a minimum of five GCSEs and strong IT skills, with prior laboratory experience being advantageous. Key responsibilities include managing samples, maintaining stock levels, and supporting waste management. This role offers a great opportunity for growth in a collaborative environment.

Qualifications

• Prior experience in a laboratory or operational support role is advantageous.
• Self-motivated with the ability to work independently and in a team.

Responsibilities

• Aliquot reagents and manage sample handling.
• Maintain accurate stock levels of consumables and reagents.
• Organise and tidy freezer storage.
• Support management of multiple waste streams.
• Assist with weekly system checks on lab equipment.
• Provide general team support.

Skills

Strong IT skills

Excellent organisational skills

Attention to detail

Good communication skills

Education

Minimum five GCSEs including Sciences and Mathematics

Job description

Overview

Laboratory Support Assistant — Location: Cambridge — Sector: Biotechnology / Laboratory Operation — Employment Type: Permanent — Salary: £25,000 - £30,000

We're working with a leading biotech organisation seeking a Laboratory Support Assistant to help ensure the smooth running of their laboratory facilities. This is a great opportunity for someone with a keen eye for detail, a proactive attitude, and a desire to be part of a growing scientific environment. The role combines operational, logistical, and maintenance tasks, all aimed at keeping the lab organised, compliant, and running efficiently. You'll be working alongside a friendly and collaborative team that values reliability, initiative, and precision.

Responsibilities

• Sample Management: Aliquot reagents and manage sample handling as required; Receive, check in, and track new stock and reagents.
• Inventory & Stock Control: Maintain accurate stock levels of consumables and reagents; Conduct regular inventory checks and implement corrective actions; Restock laboratory supplies and maintain dry ice stock; Coordinate routine shipments and deliveries.
• Facility Maintenance: Organise and tidy freezer storage, ensuring stock records are current; Clean incubators according to schedule; Assist with general upkeep of labs and storerooms; Manage laboratory coat collections and dry cleaning logistics.
• Waste Management: Regularly clear cardboard and plastics waste; Support the management of multiple waste streams including clinical, chemical, and recyclable materials.
• Equipment & Systems Support: Perform weekly system checks on flow cytometers; Assist engineers and contractors during maintenance visits; Support external IT contractors with checks and system updates.
• Team Support: Provide general support to colleagues and liaise with facility management teams when required; Act as a point of contact in the absence of the Laboratory Operations Manager.

Skills & Experience

• Minimum of five GCSEs (grade C/4 or above), including Combined Sciences, Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, and English
• Previous experience in a laboratory or operational support role is advantageous
• Strong IT skills with the ability to use spreadsheets effectively
• Excellent organisational and time-management skills
• High attention to detail and strong numeracy
• Self-motivated with the ability to work both independently and within a team
• Good communication skills and a practical, hands-on approach

Why Apply

This role offers a fantastic opportunity to gain hands-on experience within a professional biotech environment. You'll play a key part in supporting day-to-day lab operations and contributing to the success of ongoing research and development work.

If you're looking to take the next step in your laboratory career and enjoy varied, practical work within a collaborative setting, we'd love to hear from you.

About Us

The NRL Group connect global companies with the right people to bring engineering projects to life. Supporting contracting companies with energy transition plans and working with our clients to create a cleaner, greener future.

We welcome applications from every walk of life and are committed to diversity within the industries we support, as a certified Inclusive Recruiter and Armed Forces friendly employer. You can ensure you stay safe when job searching online by visiting the JobsAware website.