Laboratory Technician (Plasmid Production)

Setting the pace. Pioneering technologies. Reaching targets.

Laboratory Technician (Plasmid Production)

£35,000 - £40,000 plus benefits

Reports to: Operations Manager (Cancer Tools)
Directorate: Research & Innovation
Contract: Permanent
Hours: Full time 35 hours per week
Location: Kent Discovery Park, Sandwich, Kent, CT13 9FF. On site
Closing date: 2 March 2025 23:55

This vacancy may close earlier if a high volume of applications is received or once a suitable candidate is found, therefore we strongly recommend that you apply early to avoid disappointment.

Recruitment process: Competency based interview, in person at the lab.

Please note: You must be eligible to work in the UK to apply for this vacancy. Cancer Research UK is not able to offer visa sponsorship.

At Cancer Research UK, we exist to beat cancer.

Cancer Research UK are looking for a skilled Lab Technician, with experience in a plasmid production laboratory environment, to join our Cancer Tools team based within our cell culture facility at the Kent Discovery Park.

This is a unique opportunity to join a new plasmid production facility within the existing CancerTools lab space. The Laboratory technician - plasmid production will be a key member of the laboratory team, bringing their technical and practical skills to an exciting role. Your day-to-day work will involve the production of bacterial cultures containing plasmids, whilst supporting the supply of research tools to a global community. You will also be involved in the day-to-day running of the plasmid production laboratory space, including ordering supplies and cleaning. The role will require work to be carried out within a Quality Management System (ISO9001) and the successful candidate will have a willingness to learn new skills, have good record keeping, a flexible approach and good attention to detail.

This is a great opportunity to join a small team that make a big difference, allowing you to stretch yourself and develop a breadth of experience whilst being surrounded by people as dedicated to beating cancer as you.

What will I be doing?

• Planning, coordination, and delivery of cell culture lab activities
• The growth, maintenance, quality control and storage of a variety of plasmids / bacterial cultures
• With support of the wider team, investigate and troubleshoot production issues
• Provide support to the lab team with the day to day running of the lab and deputise for the senior technician when required
• Maintaining and generating clear records of plasmid production processes (protocols, certificates of analysis, inventory transactions, QC data, etc.)
• Support with new process development, including onboarding of new plasmid products or related technologies
• Work closely with the wider operations team to ensure smooth production and despatch of research materials
• Maintain laboratory facilities in line with quality and health and safety requirements

What are you looking for?

• Professional experience in a microbiology laboratory environment, including culturing and maintaining various types of bacteria
• Ability to think creatively to solve problems (preferred)
• Knowledge of health and safety requirements associated with a microbiology laboratory
• Experience in managing stock levels (consumables and product inventory)
• High attention to detail and accurate record keeping

We’re looking for people who can believe in and embody these organisation values and can use them to drive forward progress against our mission to beat cancer.

What will I gain?

We create a working environment that supports your wellbeing and provide a generous benefits package, a wide range of career and personal development opportunities and high-quality tools. Our policies and processes enable you to improve your work-life balance, take positive steps in your career and achieve your personal wellbeing goals.

How do I apply?

We operate an anonymised shortlisting process in our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion. CVs are required for all applications; but we won’t be able to view them until we invite you for an interview. Instead, we ask you to complete the work history section of the online application form for us to be able to assess you fairly and objectively.

For more information on this career opportunity please visit our website or contact us at recruitment@cancer.org.uk.

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We want to see every candidate performing at their best throughout the job application process, interview process and whilst at work. We therefore ask you to inform us of any concerns you have or any adjustments you might need to enable this to happen. Please contact recruitment@cancer.org.uk as soon as possible.

Unfortunately, we are unable to recruit anyone below the age of 18, so that we can protect young people from health & safety and safeguarding risks.