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- 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
Contact Detail:
Brain Health Scotland Life Sciences Limited Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Biomarker Laboratory Research Assistant
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the life sciences field, especially those who might know about opportunities at Scottish Brain Sciences. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to a foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for that interview! Research common questions for laboratory roles and think about how your experience with automated analysers and sample handling fits in. We want you to shine when it’s your turn to impress!
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for biomarkers! When you get the chance to talk about your interest in neurodegenerative conditions, let your enthusiasm show. It’s all about making a connection with the team at SBS.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Biomarker Laboratory Research Assistant
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in biological sciences and laboratory techniques. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your expertise in handling blood and CSF samples!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're passionate about biomarkers and how this role fits into your career goals. We love seeing enthusiasm, so let your personality come through!
Follow the Application Instructions: When applying, ensure you send your CV and cover letter as specified. We appreciate attention to detail, so double-check that everything is in order before hitting send. Applying through our website is the best way to go!
Showcase Teamwork Skills: Since you'll be working within a small team, highlight any previous experiences where you've collaborated effectively. We value teamwork at StudySmarter, so let us know how you can contribute to our lab environment!
How to prepare for a job interview at Brain Health Scotland Life Sciences Limited
✨Know Your Biomarkers
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of biomarkers, especially those related to neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer’s disease. Being able to discuss specific examples and their implications in research will show your passion and expertise.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Lab Protocols
Since the role involves handling blood and CSF samples, it’s crucial to understand the relevant clinical and research protocols. Review standard operating procedures and quality control measures to demonstrate your readiness to comply with laboratory standards.
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Be prepared to talk about your experience with automated analysers and any laboratory techniques you've used, particularly immunoassays. Highlighting your hands-on experience will reassure them that you can hit the ground running.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the team dynamics, ongoing projects, or how they measure success in the lab. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.