At a Glance
- Tasks: Join our Finance team to support day-to-day operations and collaborate with diverse stakeholders.
- Company: EMBL-EBI, a world-leading scientific research environment with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Generous salary, flexible working, private medical insurance, and 30 days annual leave.
- Other info: Diverse teams drive innovation; we welcome applicants from all backgrounds.
- Why this job: Kickstart your finance career with full training in a dynamic and supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Basic bookkeeping qualification or equivalent; strong attention to detail and communication skills.
The predicted salary is between 31587 - 31587 £ per year.
We are looking for a motivated and detail-oriented Accounts Assistant to join a busy and collaborative Finance team supporting a world-leading scientific research environment. Based in Hinxton, the Finance team provides local financial support and processing services for EMBL-EBI, while working closely with colleagues at EMBL headquarters in Heidelberg, Germany. This is an excellent opportunity for someone looking to develop a career in finance, whether you already have accounts payable experience or are seeking an entry-level role with full training provided. Reporting directly to the Finance Supervisor, you will work with a wide range of internal and external stakeholders and play a key role in supporting day-to-day finance operations.
Key responsibilities:
- Processing of non-purchase order invoices using File‑Maker and SAP
- Bank account reconciliations
- Credit control activities
- Processing staff expenses and reimbursement requests
- Timesheet control and administration
- Supplier and vendor checks
- Insurance claims
- Cost centre transfers
- Grant audit requests
- Monitoring the finance mailbox
Qualifications:
- Qualification in basic bookkeeping or equivalent
- Previous accounts payable experience (for Grade 3 appointments)
- Good working knowledge of Microsoft Word and Excel
- Credit control experience
- Strong problem‑solving skills
- Excellent attention to detail
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
- Fluent English skills
- Ability to work independently as well as part of a team
- Experience using SAP and/or Workday is an advantage
Contract length and salary:
- Contract length: 3 years, renewable to a maximum of 9 years.
- Salary: Grade 2, monthly salary from £2,632.25 after tax, excluding personal pension and insurance contributions. Plus generous benefits.
Why join us:
At EMBL-EBI you can apply your talent and passion to accelerate science and tackle some of humankind's greatest challenges.
Benefits:
- Financial incentives: monthly family and child allowances, annual salary review, pension scheme, death benefit, long‑term care, accident‑at‑work and unemployment insurances
- Flexible working arrangements – including hybrid working patterns
- Private medical insurance for you and your immediate family (including all prescriptions and generous dental & optical cover)
- Generous time off: 30 days annual leave per year, in addition to public holidays
- Campus life: free shuttle bus to and from work, on‑site library, subsidised on‑site gym and cafeteria, casual dress code, extensive sports and social club activities (on campus and remotely)
- Family benefits: on‑site nursery, 10 days of child sick leave, generous parental leave, holiday clubs on campus and monthly family and child allowances
Diversity and inclusion:
At EMBL, we believe that diverse teams drive innovation and scientific excellence. We encourage applications from candidates of all genders, identities, nationalities and/or any other diverse backgrounds.
How to apply:
To apply please submit a cover letter and a CV through our online system. Applications will close at 23:59 CET on the date shown below. We aim to provide a response within two weeks after the closing date.
Closing Date: 09/06/2026
EMBL is a signatory of DORA. Find out how we apply DORA principles to our recruitment and performance assessment processes here.
Accounts Assistant employer: 1000 European Molecular Biology Laboratory
At EMBL-EBI, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment in the heart of scientific research. Our Finance team not only provides comprehensive training and development opportunities for aspiring finance professionals but also boasts generous benefits such as flexible working arrangements, private medical insurance, and extensive family support. Join us in Hinxton to contribute to groundbreaking science while enjoying a vibrant campus life and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
Contact Details:
1000 European Molecular Biology Laboratory Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Accounts Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the finance field, especially those who work at EMBL-EBI or similar organisations. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that might just land you that Accounts Assistant role.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by brushing up on your knowledge of SAP and File-Maker. We all know that showing you’re familiar with the tools they use can really set you apart from other candidates. Plus, it shows you’re serious about the job!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of follow-ups! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation. It’s a simple gesture that keeps you fresh in their minds and shows your enthusiasm for the position.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us. So, don’t wait – get your application in today!
We think you need these skills to ace Accounts Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Tailored Cover Letter:When writing your cover letter, make sure to highlight your relevant experience and skills that match the Accounts Assistant role. We want to see how you can contribute to our Finance team, so don’t hold back on showcasing your passion for finance!
Show Off Your Attention to Detail:As an Accounts Assistant, attention to detail is key! Make sure your CV and cover letter are free from typos and errors. We appreciate clarity and precision, so take the time to proofread your application before hitting send.
Highlight Your Team Spirit:We love a collaborative spirit! In your application, mention any experiences where you’ve worked well in a team or supported colleagues. This will show us that you’re ready to jump into our busy Finance team and contribute positively.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our online system! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your CV and cover letter. Plus, it ensures you’re considered for the role in a timely manner, so get clicking!
How to prepare for a job interview at 1000 European Molecular Biology Laboratory
✨Know Your Numbers
Brush up on basic bookkeeping principles and be ready to discuss your understanding of accounts payable processes. Familiarity with tools like SAP or File-Maker will give you an edge, so make sure to mention any relevant experience.
✨Showcase Your Attention to Detail
As an Accounts Assistant, attention to detail is crucial. Prepare examples from your past experiences where your meticulous nature helped avoid errors or improved processes. This will demonstrate your suitability for the role.
✨Communicate Clearly
Strong communication skills are key in finance roles. Practice explaining complex financial concepts in simple terms. Be prepared to discuss how you've effectively communicated with stakeholders in previous roles or during your studies.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions ready about the Finance team’s operations or the company culture. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.
