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- Tasks: Join our team as a Research Technician, supporting cancer screening through lab tasks and cell culture.
- Company: Avantor is a global leader in life sciences, dedicated to advancing science for better patient outcomes.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, pension scheme, private medical care, dental care, and an extra day off for your birthday.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cancer research while working in a state-of-the-art facility with a supportive team.
- Qualifications: Bachelor's degree in a science-related field and at least 1 year of lab experience required.
- Other info: This is a full-time, temporary position based in Cambridge, UK, with opportunities for career growth.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 42000 £ per year.
The Opportunity: Avantor is looking for an experienced and lab-savvy Research Technician (Functional Genomics) to join our team based in Cambridge, UK. In this position, you'll support the Functional Genomics Group by preparing NGS libraries using an automated liquid-handling system to aid in cancer screening efforts. You will also focus on cell biology tasks such as aliquoting and preparing reagents, managing cell culture growth, and handling consumables specific to the group.
This is a full-time, temporary (12-month) position based at The Discovery, a new state-of-the-art facility. In addition to an attractive salary, we offer multiple benefits, including a pension scheme, private medical and dental care, and an extra day off for your birthday.
Working hours: Monday to Friday, 9:00 - 17:00
The Team: You'll join a team of 10-15 associates and support them in working on well-defined projects and general day-to-day laboratory tasks. You'll belong to our business department Lab and Production Services, which supports big pharmaceutical companies and laboratories all over the world, in Research and Development within the Life Sciences industry.
What we're looking for:
- Education: Bachelor's degree in a science-related discipline (Molecular Biology preferred) with at least 1 year of laboratory experience in a relevant scientific field.
- Experience: Practical or theoretical understanding of molecular biology, cloning, and mammalian cell culture techniques. Familiarity with liquid-handling automation and its role in NGS library preparation (hands-on experience is preferred but training will be provided). Strong knowledge of mammalian cell culture techniques and the ability to support cell culture experiments. Proficiency with Microsoft Word and Excel, including experience using databases, analytical software, and presenting data in PowerPoint and spreadsheets.
How you will thrive and create an impact:
- Cultivate and maintain mammalian cell cultures, monitoring growth, measuring colonies, and ensuring optimal conditions for cell development.
- Prepare and aliquot reagents for cell culture experiments, ensuring accurate measurements and timely delivery to support ongoing research.
- Support automated NGS library preparation by becoming the team expert in handling and troubleshooting liquid-handling automation systems.
- Conduct basic analysis of cell growth data, tracking progress and identifying trends to support experimental objectives.
- Maintain accurate and detailed records of cell culture experiments, reagent preparation, and analysis to ensure data integrity and compliance with lab protocols.
- Assist with the implementation of systems related to cell growth tracking and the management of consumables specific to the group's research needs.
Research Technician in Cambridge employer: Avantor
Contact Detail:
Avantor Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Technician in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest advancements in functional genomics and NGS library preparation. This will not only help you understand the role better but also allow you to engage in meaningful conversations during interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field of molecular biology and cell culture. Attend relevant workshops or seminars in Cambridge to meet potential colleagues and learn more about the specific techniques used at Avantor.
✨Tip Number 3
Gain hands-on experience with liquid-handling automation systems if you haven't already. Consider volunteering or taking short courses that offer practical training, as this will make you a more attractive candidate.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your previous lab experiences in detail, especially those related to mammalian cell culture and reagent preparation. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've contributed to successful projects in the past.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Technician in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant laboratory experience, particularly in molecular biology and cell culture techniques. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills in handling liquid-handling automation and NGS library preparation.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your enthusiasm for the role and the company. Mention how your background aligns with Avantor's mission in cancer research and your commitment to contributing to their projects.
Highlight Relevant Skills: Clearly outline your proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and any analytical software you have used. Emphasise your ability to maintain accurate records and manage cell cultures, as these are crucial for the position.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your application materials for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail, which is essential in a laboratory setting.
How to prepare for a job interview at Avantor
✨Showcase Your Lab Experience
Be prepared to discuss your previous laboratory experience in detail. Highlight specific techniques you've mastered, especially in molecular biology and cell culture, as these are crucial for the role.
✨Familiarise Yourself with NGS and Automation
Since the position involves NGS library preparation using automated systems, brush up on your knowledge of liquid-handling automation. If you have hands-on experience, be ready to share examples of how you've used it in past projects.
✨Demonstrate Attention to Detail
The role requires maintaining accurate records and ensuring data integrity. Prepare to discuss how you ensure precision in your work, particularly when preparing reagents and tracking cell growth data.
✨Prepare Questions About the Team and Projects
Show your interest in the team dynamics and ongoing projects by preparing thoughtful questions. This not only demonstrates your enthusiasm but also helps you gauge if the environment is a good fit for you.
