Laboratory Technician

UK Biobank Limited; England; On-site; GBP 28,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading health research organization is seeking a Laboratory Technician in Cheadle to contribute to the processing and management of biological samples. You will work in a dynamic laboratory environment, ensuring adherence to quality standards and safety protocols. The ideal candidate should have experience or strong interest in lab work and excellent attention to detail. You can expect a comprehensive benefits package including annual leave, a healthcare plan, and various employee discounts.

Benefits

26 Days’ Annual Leave

Holiday Buy Scheme

Birthday Leave

USS Pension Scheme

Healthcare Cash Plan

Enhanced Family Leave

Cycle to Work Scheme

Season Ticket Loan

Professional Subscriptions

Learning Budget

Free On‑Site Gym

Subsidised Canteen Lunches

Free Car Parking

Employee Discounts Portal

Employee Assistance Programme

Annual Flu Vaccination

Life Assurance Cover

Qualifications

• Experience working in a laboratory environment or a strong interest in laboratory‑based work.
• Understanding of basic laboratory procedures and good laboratory practice.
• Confidence in repetitive, process‑driven tasks while maintaining quality standards.

Responsibilities

• Processing biological samples according to standard procedures.
• Preparing, handling, and storing samples using approved methods.
• Recording laboratory activities and sample information.
• Supporting routine equipment checks and maintenance.

Skills

Experience in a laboratory environment

Attention to detail

Good communication skills

Job description

Laboratory Technician

Application Deadline: 18 January 2026

Department: Lab

Employment Type: Permanent

Location: Cheadle

Reporting To: Senior Laboratory Technician

Compensation: £27,557 / year

Description

At UK Biobank, our laboratory plays a vital role in enabling world‑class health research. Every sample processed supports studies that aim to improve understanding, prevention, and treatment of disease both now and in the future.

We’re looking for a Lab Technician to join our Laboratory Operations Team, contributing to the day‑to‑day processing, handling, and management of biological samples. This role is well suited to someone who enjoys practical, hands‑on work, values accuracy and consistency, and takes pride in supporting high‑quality scientific outcomes.

As a welcoming and inclusive organisation, we work together to deliver reliable laboratory services at scale, and we’re excited to offer an opportunity to be part of that mission.

Can you do it?

Working within a laboratory environment, you’ll contribute to the processing and management of biological samples in line with established procedures and quality standards.

You’ll work closely with colleagues across laboratory operations to ensure samples are handled safely, accurately, and efficiently. This role involves following standard operating procedures, maintaining clear records, and contributing to a culture of quality and continuous improvement.

You will be responsible for:

• Processing biological samples in accordance with standard operating procedures and quality requirements.
• Preparing, handling, and storing samples using approved laboratory methods and equipment.
• Accurately recording laboratory activities and sample information using laboratory systems.
• Supporting routine equipment checks, maintenance activities, and housekeeping within the laboratory.
• Following health, safety, and quality procedures to maintain a safe working environment.
• Working collaboratively with laboratory colleagues to meet daily throughput and quality targets.

Is this ‘You’?

To be successful, you will have:

• Experience working in a laboratory environment or a strong interest in laboratory‑based work.
• An understanding of basic laboratory procedures and good laboratory practice.
• Strong attention to detail and the ability to follow written procedures accurately.
• Confidence working with repetitive, process‑driven tasks while maintaining quality standards.
• Good communication skills and the ability to work effectively as part of a team.

Working hours are 37.5 hours, 5 shifts a week, Monday to Sunday, including Bank Holidays. Located in Greater Manchester (initially based in Stockport with a move to Manchester Science Park mid 2026).

Your Wellbeing Matters to Us

We’re proud to offer a benefits package that supports your health, financial security, and work–life balance from day one. Here’s what you can look forward to as part of our team:

• 26 Days’ Annual Leave – Plus Bank Holidays, increasing with length of service
• Holiday Buy Scheme
• Birthday Leave
• USS Pension Scheme
• Healthcare Cash Plan
• Enhanced Family Leave
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• Season Ticket Loan
• Professional Subscriptions
• Learning Budget
• Free On‑Site Gym
• Subsidised Canteen Lunches
• Free Car Parking
• Employee Discounts Portal
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Annual Flu Vaccination
• Life Assurance Cover

Our passion for diversity and equality means creating a work environment for all employees that is welcoming, respectful, engaging, and enriched with opportunities for personal and professional development.

The job advert closing date may change, so we recommend applying without delay if you’re interested.