Laboratory Technician (Lab5)

MicrobesNG; Birmingham; On-site; GBP 23,000 - 28,000

Job description

MicrobesNG is a genome sequencing facility dedicated to providing microbial sequence data to our expanding global customer base. We currently sequence over 25,000 genomes each year from a wide variety of medical, agricultural and environmental microbes including bacteria, fungi and viruses.

This is an exciting time to join MicrobesNG, a start-up company, with a close knit group of employees that are working towards providing new services and analyses. As an employee centric company we are proud to foster a culture that is supportive, friendly and highly collaborative.

We are looking for a Full Time Laboratory Technician to work as a member of the Laboratory Team in the delivery of sequencing services for our customers. In particular, to be responsible for reception of samples and deliveries, preparation and processing of samples, including some laboratory procedures and analysis. The ideal candidates would have the interpersonal skills required to work in a team environment to ensure samples are processed within expected turnaround times.

Working hours will be 9.30/10am-5.30/6pm (Initial training will take place between 9am - 5pm)

Main Duties And Responsibilities

• To carry out reception, preparation, processing and storage of samples (DNA and microbial/biological samples).
• To undertake all tasks within or linked to the laboratory adequate to the level of training received from trained members of the team and management.
• To receive and correct storage consumables and chemical reagents.
• To carry out laboratory analysis of samples as part of internal QC processes.
• To validate and accurately record data in analog and electronic platforms, ensuring all records are accurate and kept up to date.
• To understand and interpret protocols and Standard Operating Procedures, being able to assist with draft preparation and updating of these documents.
• To help through operating best practice in order to meet internal quality standards.
• To prepare buffers and reagent aliquots required for day to day operations.
• To understand and adhere to health and safety procedures ensuring that UK health and safety legislation is maintained.
• To ensure that the working environment is kept clean and tidy, with due attention to the careful maintenance of laboratory equipment and fittings.
• To uphold and follow the correct waste disposal procedures.
• To carry out activities flexibly and reliably, working as part of a team, supporting others and taking responsibility for the success of the team, ensuring that turnaround time targets are achieved.
• To provide a high level of internal communications (occasionally emailing external customers).
• To maintain a flexible approach to work to assist other departments as and when required.
• To actively engage in the Personal Development Process and undertake all required training as identified by your line manager.
• Any other duties and responsibilities as reasonably outlined by your line manager from time to time.
  
  

Requirements

Essential

• NVQ, BTEC/ONC at level three or equivalent level three qualification and specific relevant experience in an appropriate subject.
• GCSE level 2 (A*- C) or equivalent level 2 qualification in English and in Mathematics, Chemistry or Biology.
• Accuracy and attention to detail is paramount due to the data entry aspect of the position.
• Strong communication skills both written and verbal.
• Adequate knowledge of IT systems like Microsoft/Open Office, Google Suite, etc.
• Positive service attitude and shows courtesy in dealing with others.
• Ability to organise and manage own workload and demonstrate flexibility in terms of work practices/requirements.
• Ability to work under minimal supervision but function as part of a team.
  
  

Desired

• A BSc in a biological science or equivalent professional qualification in an appropriate subject.
• Experience of working in a laboratory environment, particularly microbiology or molecular biology.
• Practical experience in extraction, quantitation and manipulation of nucleic acids in particular from microbial organisms.
• Working knowledge of Good Laboratory Practice and/or relevant UKAS standards (ISO 15189, ISO/IEC 17025).
  
  

Benefits

• Fair pay (£23,000 - £28,000 FTE based on experience)
• Full Time
• 38 days holiday (inclusive of bank holidays)
• Generous Employer Pension Contribution into NEST scheme
• Training and development
• An Employee Wellness & Prosperity Programme
• An opportunity to work in an industry supporting life- and world-changing science
  
  

Applications will be reviewed as received and we encourage early applications prior to the closing date of 22nd April 2025. We reserve the right to close this post at any time.