At a Glance
- Tasks: Coordinate materials and manage logistics in a dynamic lab environment.
- Company: Avantor Services, a leader in laboratory support for pharmaceuticals.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience, training, and career growth opportunities.
- Other info: Join a diverse team dedicated to advancing life-changing science.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in drug development while expanding your scientific skills.
- Qualifications: HND or BSc in Life Sciences; detail-oriented and proactive mindset.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
The Opportunity
We are seeking a Material Technician to join the Drug Substance (DS) team within Biopharmaceutical Development at our client’s Cambridge Discovery Centre. This is a lab‑based, multidisciplinary role that underpins early drug development programs through material coordination, shipment logistics, internal sample management, and cold‑storage inventory ownership. The role plays a critical part in ensuring materials move efficiently, compliantly, and without delay, allowing scientists to remain focused on research and development delivery. All activities are carried out in accordance with Safety, Health & Environment (SHE) requirements and Good Laboratory Standards (GLS).
Why This Role Could Be Right for You
If you have a life sciences background and are keen to broaden your experience beyond traditional lab work into sample logistics, materials management, and cross-functional coordination, this role offers a strong development opportunity. You will apply your scientific understanding in a real-world drug development environment, while gaining hands-on exposure to shipping coordination, cold-storage inventory ownership, laboratory systems, and process improvement activities. With training and on-the-job support provided, this position is ideal for someone who is detail-oriented, proactive, and eager to learn new—but closely related—areas, building a broader skill set while remaining connected to science-driven work.
Key Responsibilities
- Material Coordination & Shipping Logistics
- Coordinate the shipment of materials for the DS group, including: Plasmid DNA, Control monoclonal antibodies, Non‑GLP and GLP toxicology lots, CLD cell lines, PPS bulk materials, Analytical samples for external assays (HCP, DNA, ProA, ISF, bioassay, density).
- Prepare, review, and manage all shipment documentation, ensuring full accuracy to prevent customs delays.
- Act as the primary liaison between Internal DS scientists, Sample Dispatch Unit (SDU), and Avantor logistics stakeholders.
- Monitor, track, and follow up on complex and international shipments, resolving SDU or customs queries to avoid project delays.
- Internal Sample & Material Management
- Oversee internal sample tracking and management, including DLIMS submissions.
- Support aliquoting and labelling activities, ensuring samples are correctly prepared for storage and dispatch.
- Maintain alignment with internal standards for sample traceability, handling, and documentation.
- Cold-Storage Inventory Ownership
- Take ownership of departmental freezer inventories (−80°C, −20°C, +4°C), including: Receipt and logging of new materials, Fulfilment of material requests, Stock tracking and usage monitoring, Supporting routine disposal activities, Supporting routine freezer cleaning.
- Ensure compliance with all cold and ultra‑cold storage standards and inventory integrity requirements.
- Systems Support & Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Act as the primary contact for scientists regarding Avantor shipping systems and storage workflows.
- Troubleshoot system or process issues and escalate where necessary.
- Collaborate with scientists, Avantor teams, and SDU to drive continuous improvement in shipping and material management processes.
Skills, Knowledge & Competencies
- Educated to HND or BSc level in a Life Science or related discipline.
- Understanding of protein structure is advantageous.
- High level of attention to detail and accuracy.
- Strong organisational, planning, and time‑management skills.
- Excellent communication skills with confidence engaging across scientific and operational teams.
- Customer‑focused, collaborative, and service‑oriented mindset.
- Flexible and proactive, with the ability to handle multiple responsibilities and priorities.
- Comfortable working independently and as part of a team.
- Knowledge and understanding of Good Laboratory Standards (GLS).
Material Technician – Lab Environment in Cambridge employer: Avantor
Avantor Services is an exceptional employer located in the vibrant Cambridge Discovery Centre, offering a unique opportunity for Material Technicians to engage in meaningful work that directly supports life-changing scientific advancements. With a strong commitment to employee growth, a collaborative work culture, and comprehensive training, Avantor empowers its associates to broaden their skill sets while contributing to critical drug development processes. Join a diverse and inclusive team where your contributions truly make a difference in the world of biopharmaceuticals.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Material Technician – Lab Environment in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the life sciences field and let them know you're on the hunt for a Material Technician role. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your knowledge of Good Laboratory Standards (GLS) and sample logistics. Be ready to discuss how your background in life sciences makes you a perfect fit for the role. Confidence is key!
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just apply anywhere—apply through our website! It shows you're genuinely interested in joining Avantor and helps us keep track of your application. Plus, it’s super easy to navigate!
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview with a thank-you email. It’s a great way to reiterate your interest in the position and remind them why you’re the best candidate for the Material Technician role. A little courtesy goes a long way!
We think you need these skills to ace Material Technician – Lab Environment in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Material Technician role. Highlight any relevant experience in lab environments, materials management, or logistics. We want to see how your background fits with what we're looking for!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're excited about this role and how your skills align with our needs. Be genuine and let your personality come through – we love that!
Showcase Your Attention to Detail:Since this role requires a high level of accuracy, make sure to demonstrate your attention to detail in your application. Double-check for typos and ensure all information is correct. It shows us you care!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role there!
How to prepare for a job interview at Avantor
✨Know Your Materials
Familiarise yourself with the types of materials you'll be handling, like plasmid DNA and monoclonal antibodies. Understanding their properties and how they are used in drug development will show your enthusiasm and readiness for the role.
✨Master the Logistics
Brush up on shipping logistics and documentation processes. Be prepared to discuss how you would manage shipment tracking and resolve customs queries, as this is crucial for ensuring timely delivery of materials.
✨Showcase Your Attention to Detail
Highlight your organisational skills and attention to detail during the interview. Provide examples from your past experiences where these skills helped you succeed, especially in lab environments or similar settings.
✨Emphasise Collaboration Skills
Since this role involves working closely with scientists and other teams, be ready to talk about your experience in cross-functional collaboration. Share specific instances where you contributed to team success and improved processes.
