R&D Technician

NatureMetrics; Guildford; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading biodiversity monitoring organization is seeking an R&D Technician to innovate and automate laboratory processes. Responsibilities include conducting laboratory analyses, optimizing protocols, and maintaining accurate records. Ideal candidates will have a background in Molecular Biology and a passion for enhancing laboratory operations.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Flexible work arrangements

Professional growth opportunities

Benefits package including pension scheme

Qualifications

• Experience in an R&D or laboratory setting focused on molecular biology.
• Ability to identify inefficiencies in lab processes and implement solutions.
• Experience in analyzing complex data.

Responsibilities

• Conduct laboratory analyses including DNA extraction and QC testing.
• Support laboratory operations and communication with R&D team.
• Perform fieldwork for environmental sample collection.

Skills

Attention to detail

Data management

Communication

Organizational skills

Education

Degree in Molecular Biology or related field

Job description

The role

NatureMetrics is a global leader in biodiversity monitoring and environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis, transforming the scale at which nature can be quantified. Our cutting-edge solutions enable organisations to monitor nature impact across sectors, from conservation to industry and inform sustainability decisions with unprecedented accuracy. With a strong market leading position, NatureMetrics has established a robust client base and developed a proprietary software platform that makes biodiversity insights accessible, actionable and scalable. As Earthshot Prize Finalists 2024, BloombergNEF Pioneers 2024, World Economic Forum Technology Pioneers 2024 and TechNation Future Fifty 2025 cohort members, we have the potential and the opportunity to change the way organisations operate.

As we enter a new phase of rapid global growth, we are seeking an R&D Technician to work closely with our process engineering specialists, focusing on the scaling, automation, and innovation of our laboratory processes.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct laboratory analyses of samples using established protocols, including DNA extraction from environmental samples (e.g. soil, water, air), QC testing, PCR/qPCR, and High-Throughput Sequencing
• Contribute to the optimisation and development of new molecular biology assays and protocols.
• Communicate effectively with R&D scientists and other team members to support ongoing projects and achieve research goals.
• Analyse and interpret experimental data, identifying trends, and troubleshooting issues.
• Maintain accurate recordson internal sample tracking systems and electronic laboratory notebook systems to ensure traceability and compliance
• Support laboratory operationsby assisting with sample check-in, maintaining clean laboratory areas and performing other lab-based duties as required
• Adhere to laboratory protocols and ensure compliance with company policies, health and safety standards (e.g. COSHH, risk assessments, and occupational health and safety legal requirements).
• Conduct field work to collect environmental samples, ensuring proper handling, labelling, and transportation to maintain sample integrity.

Why us?

At NatureMetrics diversity and inclusion are part of our DNA. Together, we continue to build an inclusive culture that encourages, supports, and celebrates the diverse voices of our employees. It fuels our innovation and connects us to the communities we work with. Our values leave no space for stereotypes. We are all unique and pull together for a common purpose.

About you

We are looking for a detail-oriented and proactive individual with a passion for optimising laboratory operations and a keen interest in process innovation. You'll be someone who works well in a team, is reliable, and has a positive attitude—essential qualities for a Research and Development Technician whose primary responsibility will be to focus on scaling, automating, and innovating our laboratory processes.
Experience and Qualifications

• A degree or qualification in Molecular Biology, Environmental Sciences, Biochemical Engineering or a related discipline is desirable, though equivalent laboratory experience will also be considered.
• Relevant hands-on experience in an R&D or industry laboratory setting, with a significant focus on molecular biology.
• Experience working with environmental DNA (eDNA) is advantageous but not essential

Specialist Knowledge, Skills and Competencies

• Demonstrated ability to identify bottlenecks, inefficiencies, and areas for improvement in existing lab processes, and to support the design and implement optimised solutions.
• Strong record-keeping and data management skills to ensure traceability and compliance with protocols.
• Experience in analysing and interpreting complex data using statistical tools and software.
• Ability to work effectively and communicate clearly within multidisciplinary teams (scientists, ecologists, bioinformaticians).
• Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks, work independently, and collaborate effectively within a team.

What's in it for you

• Competitive Salary
• Impactfulworkwithapurpose-driventeam
• Flexibleworkarrangements
• Opportunitiesforprofessionalgrowth
  • Benefits package including salary sacrifice pension scheme prioritising sustainability; life assurance; Enhanced annual leave; Cycle to Work Scheme; enhanced family friendly policy.