At a Glance
- Tasks: Handle and analyse clinical samples to support groundbreaking research in neurodegenerative conditions.
- Company: Join Scottish Brain Sciences, a leader in life sciences based at St Andrews University.
- Benefits: Enjoy 37 days holiday, private medical insurance, and a company pension.
- Other info: Fixed-term role starting March 2026, perfect for recent graduates.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in healthcare while gaining valuable lab experience.
- Qualifications: Degree in biological sciences and lab experience with automated analysers required.
The predicted salary is between 22000 - 29000 £ per year.
Are biomarkers your thing? Are you looking for a short-term role that adds long-term value to your career? We have a fixed term opportunity for a Biomarker Laboratory Research Assistant in our laboratory based at St Andrews University's campus in Guardbridge. We're offering a 12-month fixed term role starting March 2026 to cover our colleague's maternity leave. This could be a great way for you to use your skills to make a real difference.
Scottish Brain Sciences (SBS) is a Life Sciences Company with Headquarters in Edinburgh, Scotland. We deliver clinical trials of new tests and treatments for a range of neurodegenerative conditions, including Alzheimer's disease. We foster the rapid translation of research into practice (bench to bedside). Our Biomarker laboratory analyses both blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples for biomarkers related to the diagnosis and monitoring of Alzheimer's disease and related neurodegenerative conditions.
Reporting to the Biomarker Laboratory Manager, this role is responsible for handling, separation and documentation of both CSF and blood samples from a variety of clinical and research studies and you would be supporting SBS research activities by providing accurate and reliable data.
Some of what you'll be doing:
- Receiving, handling and documenting clinical samples
- Running a large multi-test, multi-sample automated auto-analyser
- Analysing plasma and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) samples using Cobas e801 auto-analyser
- Handling and separating both CSF and blood samples according to specific clinical and research protocols
- Documenting the sample information, analysis and biomarker results via our laboratory information management system (LIMS)
- Liaising with external service users (the NHS, private clinical services, academic or industrial partners) regarding sample and transportation requirements
- Providing quality control analysis according to national and international guidelines
- Ensuring laboratory Health & Safety protocols and quality controls are maintained
- Working in compliance with all relevant internal protocols and procedures and relevant regulations
- Ensuring maintenance of laboratory equipment
- Reporting any significant problems within the laboratory to the Laboratory Manager
The skills, experience, and qualifications you'll bring:
- Degree or equivalent in biological sciences
- Experience of using a large, automated analyser
- Laboratory experience involving a variety of techniques, particularly immunoassay
- Experience in handling and separating blood and/or CSF samples
- Ability to work within a small team
Even better if you have: NHS clinical laboratory experience.
Does this sound like you? We would love to hear from you. Apply with your CV and cover letter.
Please Note: This role is not eligible for sponsorship under the UK Skilled Worker visa route as we do not hold a sponsorship licence. Applicants must have the right to work in the UK at the time of application and for the fixed term period of employment.
Location: Guardbridge, KY16 0US
Job Type: Full-time – 35 hours, Fixed-term - 12 months starting March 2026
Pay: £26,000 - £35,000 per year (depending on experience)
Benefits:
- 37 days' holiday pro rata (includes public)
- Company pension
- Life insurance
- Private medical insurance
- On-site parking
Work Location: In person
Biomarker Laboratory Research Assistant employer: Brain Health Scotland Life Sciences Limited
Scottish Brain Sciences offers a unique opportunity for a Biomarker Laboratory Research Assistant at the picturesque St Andrews University campus in Guardbridge. With a strong commitment to employee growth, we provide a supportive work culture that values collaboration and innovation, alongside competitive benefits such as generous holiday allowance, private medical insurance, and a company pension. Join us to make a meaningful impact in the field of neurodegenerative research while enjoying a fulfilling career in a vibrant academic environment.
Contact Details:
Brain Health Scotland Life Sciences Limited Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Biomarker Laboratory Research Assistant
✨Get Involved in Local Research Communities
Tap into local biotechnology meetups and research forums. These are great places to mingle with industry professionals, share your passion, and even discover unadvertised job openings. It's all about getting your face known in the field!
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Curate a portfolio showcasing any research projects or internships you've completed in biotechnology. This tangible evidence of your skills can really impress employers when you chat with them at networking events or interviews. It's about making that killer first impression!
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We think you need these skills to ace Biomarker Laboratory Research Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Lab Skills:In the biotechnology field, it's super important to highlight your lab experience in your CV. Be sure to mention specific techniques or instruments you've mastered (think PCR, gel electrophoresis, etc.) and any relevant projects you've worked on. This will show Brain Health Scotland Life Sciences Limited that you have the hands-on skills they need.
Tailor Your Technical Skills:Make sure to emphasise your technical skills, especially those relevant to the biotechnology sector. Include any software tools or programming languages you've used, like R or Python for data analysis, which could be key for this role at Brain Health Scotland Life Sciences Limited.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Since this is a full-time role, your cover letter should reflect not only your passion for biotechnology but also your long-term career ambitions. Share why you're excited about the work that Brain Health Scotland Life Sciences Limited does and how you envision contributing to their goals. This shows that you’re not just looking for any job, but you're genuinely invested in this opportunity.
Include Your Papers and Projects:If you've published any papers or contributed to significant projects, mention them! These documents can boost your application and provide tangible evidence of your expertise in the biotechnology field. Don’t forget to link to any relevant publications or project summaries—this can set you apart from other candidates.
How to prepare for a job interview at Brain Health Scotland Life Sciences Limited
✨Brush Up on Lab Techniques
Since you're eyeing a full-time gig in biotechnology, make sure you're well-versed in the lab techniques relevant to the role. Be ready to talk about PCR, CRISPR, or any specific methods mentioned in the job description at Brain Health Scotland Life Sciences Limited. You might even be asked to demonstrate your understanding of these processes.
✨Know Your Bioinformatics Tools
Get comfortable with bioinformatics tools that are commonly used in the industry, like BLAST or Bioconductor. These are key in biotechnology, and having hands-on experience or at least familiarity can set you apart. Prepare to discuss any relevant projects you've worked on, especially if they involved data analysis or genomic research.
✨Show Your Teamwork Skills
Biotech often involves collaboration across multiple disciplines. Be ready to share stories that highlight your teamwork and communication skills, especially in research projects. Think about working with different teams at university or any internships – this is where you can show how well you fit into Brain Health Scotland Life Sciences Limited's culture.
✨Research Recent Biotech Innovations
Stay updated on the latest trends and breakthroughs in biotechnology. Knowing what's happening in the field can help you engage in more meaningful discussions during your interview. Bring up recent articles or advancements that excite you, especially those related to the work being done at Brain Health Scotland Life Sciences Limited. This shows your passion for the industry!
