Materials Technican

vwr; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 42,000; Full time

Job summary

Avantor in Cambridge is seeking a detail-focused lab operations professional to coordinate shipments of DS materials and manage internal sample handling. You will monitor cold-storage inventories, support DLIMS submissions, and liaise with scientists, Avantor teams, and the SDU to keep processes efficient.

The role emphasizes accuracy, problem solving, and strong communication to minimize workflow interruptions while ensuring compliance with storage standards.

Qualifications

• Educated to HND or BSc in Life Science.
• Strong attention to detail and organisational skills.
• Excellent communication and customer-service focus.

Responsibilities

• Coordinate shipment of materials and manage paperwork to avoid delays.
• Oversee internal sample tracking and DLIMS submissions.
• Manage cold-storage inventories and routine disposal tasks.
• Serve as the primary contact for shipping systems and storage workflows.
• Collaborate with scientists and SDU on process improvements.
• Maintain compliance with storage and inventory standards.

Skills

Attention to detail

Communication skills

Time management

Teamwork

Problem solving

Customer service

Organisational skills

Education

HND or BSc in Life Science

Tools

Microsoft Word

Microsoft Excel

Job description

The Opportunity:

Executes day-to-day lab operations & support objectives at customer facilities, following a defined standard output or set of procedures, focused on minimizing laboratory workflow interruptions. Problems and issues faced are generally recurring and solutions are typically known and/or prescribed. More complex problems are solved by applying methods learned through experience and/or using available support. Activities may include PPE and/or safety station checks and maintenance, reviewing defibrillators, extinguishers and dispensing areas to confirm working order, storage, tracking and distribution of chemicals/materials ensuring accurate inventory control, and hazardous waste collection and recycling. Collects, documents, and organizes data and observations. Communicates activity records, service level metrics and other information requiring some explanation or interpretation to team members, supervisors or customers.

Key tasks & Responsibilities

Shipment Coordination and logistics

Coordinate shipment of DS materials, including:

• Plasmid DNA
• Control mAbs
• Non-GLP‑and GLP tox lots
• CLD cell lines
• PPS bulk material
• Analytical samples for assays not performed in Cambridge (HCP, DNA, ProA, ISF, Bioassay, Density).pdf
• Other raw materials and experimentally derived samples as required

Prepare and manage all required shipment paperwork, ensuring accuracy to prevent customs delays.

Act as main liaison with:

• Sample Dispatch Unit (SDU)
• Internal DS scientists

Manage SDU/customs follow up‑ queries to ensure uninterrupted sample flow and prevent project delays.

Monitor and coordinate complex or international shipments to minimize customs holds.

Internal Sample and Material Management

Oversee DS internal sample tracking and management for DLIMS submissions.

Support aliquoting and labelling activities and ensure samples are appropriately prepared for dispatch.

Maintain alignment with internal standards for sample management and documentation.

Cold-storage Inventory Ownership

Take full ownership of departmental freezer inventories (−80°C, −20°C, +4°C), including:

• Receiving new materials into inventory
• Fulfilling material requests and supporting routine disposal activities
• Conducting stock management and tracking usage
• Supporting routine freezer cleaning
• Ensure compliance with all standards for cold/ultra‑cold storage and inventory integrity

System Support and Cross Functional Communication

Serve as the primary contact for DS scientists regarding Avantor shipping systems and storage workflows.

Troubleshoot issues and escape when necessary to improve the shipping process.

Collaborate with DS scientists, Avantor, and SDU on process improvements.

Skills, Knowledge & competencies

• Educated to HND or BSc in a Life Science or associated area. An understanding of protein structure would be advantageous
• Enthusiastic, flexible and willing to learn
• High level of attention to detail
• Outstanding communication skills on all levels and problem-solving capabilities with the confidence to react promptly to deliver the best service possible
• Good organisational and planning skills
• Proven excellent customer service focus and ability to work collaboratively
• Good time management skills, ability to flex and handle multiple responsibilities and tasks on a regular basis
• Able to work independently and as part of a team
• An understanding of how the Avantor Services team interacts internally and externally within the organisation and how they contribute to the objectives of the business
• Sound IT skills (including Microsoft Word/ Excel)
• Knowledge and understanding of Good Laboratory Standards

Offer

This opportunity not only offers the chance to work in a dynamic growing R&D team but also in a company that is looking to develop candidates in specific areas of the business. These positions offer a competitive salary and benefits package, with a flexible approach to work in line with your qualifications and experience.

For further information on the role please contact Andrew Carr, Research Services Team lead, Email: [e-mail]

Closing Date: xx xx 2026

Disclaimer:

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of employees assigned to this position. Avantor is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.

Why Avantor?

Dare to go further in your career. Join our global team of 14,000+ associates whose passion for discovery and determination to overcome challenges relentlessly advances life-changing science.

The work we do changes people's lives for the better. It brings new patient treatments and therapies to ma