Laboratory Support Assistant

The Sainsbury Laboratory; Norwich; Hybrid; GBP 22,000 - 27,000; Full time

Job summary

The Sainsbury Laboratory in Norwich Research Park is offering an entry-level Laboratory Support Assistant role within a friendly technical team. This position focuses on day-to-day lab support, safety and efficiency to enable researchers to work effectively.

You don't need extensive experience; the ideal candidate has enthusiasm for science, willingness to learn and ability to work well in a team. Training will be provided, with opportunities to develop skills in a professional scientific

Qualifications

• A genuine interest in science and enthusiasm for learning.
• Ability to work reliably and collaboratively as part of a team.
• Willingness to undertake practical, hands-on work, including manual handling.
• Previous laboratory experience would be an advantage but is not essential.

Responsibilities

• Collecting and processing used glassware and plasticware from laboratories.
• Collecting and safely autoclaving biological waste.
• Restocking laboratory consumables, glassware and plasticware in central store areas.
• Monitoring communal laboratory areas and helping to keep shared spaces clean, tidy and well organised.
• Supporting other laboratory activities as you develop your knowledge and skills.
• Carrying out other duties relevant to the role as required.
• Learn, develop and build your experience

Skills

Enthusiasm for science

Teamwork

Willingness to learn

Manual handling

Education

A-levels including Biology or Chemistry

T-Level in Laboratory Sciences

GCSEs in Maths and English

Job description

Start your career in science at one of the UK's leading plant science research institutes.

The Sainsbury Laboratory (TSL) is looking for a Laboratory Support Assistant to join our friendly and professional Laboratory Support Team.

TSL is a world-leading research institute based at Norwich Research Park. Our Laboratory Support Team plays an essential role in keeping our laboratories running safely and efficiently, enabling researchers to carry out their work.

This is an excellent opportunity for someone at the start of their career in science. You don't need extensive laboratory experience – what matters to us is your enthusiasm for science, willingness to learn and ability to work as part of a team.

What will you be doing?

Working alongside experienced members of the Laboratory Support Team, you will help provide the day-to-day support that our researchers need. Your duties will include:

• Collecting and processing used glassware and plasticware from laboratories.
• Collecting and safely autoclaving biological waste.
• Restocking laboratory consumables, glassware and plasticware in central store areas.
• Monitoring communal laboratory areas and helping to keep shared spaces clean, tidy and well organised.
• Supporting other laboratory activities as you develop your knowledge and skills.
• Carrying out other duties relevant to the role as required.
• Learn, develop and build your experience

You will also work as part of a wider technical team and receive training to develop your knowledge of laboratory operations, safety and equipment.

As you gain experience, there will be opportunities to broaden your role and learn new aspects of laboratory support, giving you valuable experience in a professional scientific environment and a strong foundation for a future career in laboratory science or technical support.

Who are we looking for?

This role could be particularly well suited to someone who has recently completed their A-levels, T-Level or equivalent qualification and is looking for their first opportunity to work in a scientific environment.

You will need:

• A-levels including Biology or Chemistry, a T-Level in Laboratory Sciences, or an equivalent qualification.
• GCSEs (or equivalent) in Maths and English.
• A genuine interest in science and enthusiasm for learning.
• The ability to work reliably and collaboratively as part of a team.
• A willingness to undertake practical, hands‑on work, including manual handling.
• Previous laboratory experience would be an advantage but is not essential.

The role is full-time and involves a degree of manual handling.

Salary will be within the UEA Technical Staff Salary Scale, Grade 3, at £24,685 per annum. Appointment level will depend on qualifications, knowledge and skills.

We offer 30 days annual leave, a generous pension scheme and the opportunity to develop skills and knowledge. We are located on an attractive campus offering cultural and recreational activities. We are committed to creating and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce and we provide a supportive working environment for all colleagues