At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead cell culture processes and support lab operations in a dynamic environment.
- Company: Join CancerTools.org, a non-profit dedicated to accelerating cancer research globally.
- Benefits: Enjoy a generous benefits package, career development opportunities, and a supportive work environment.
- Other info: Apply early as the vacancy may close sooner due to high demand.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in cancer research while thriving in a collaborative and innovative team.
- Qualifications: Extensive experience in cell biology and lab management is essential.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 46000 £ per year.
Overview
Senior Technician – Cell Culture
£42,000 - £46,000 plus benefits
Reports to: Lab Operations Manager
Directorate: Research & Innovation
Contract: Permanent
Hours: Full time 35 hours per week
Location: Kent Discovery Park, Sandwich, Kent (Onsite)
Closing date: 29 August 2025 23:55
This vacancy may close earlier if a high volume of applications is received or once a suitable candidate is found, therefore we strongly recommend that you apply early to avoid disappointment. Please let us know if there is anything about the recruitment process that you would like to discuss, in particular if there are any changes or adjustments that would make it easier for you to apply. Please contact recruitment@cancer.org.uk or 020 3469 8400 as soon as possible.
Visa sponsorship: You must be eligible to work in the UK to apply for this vacancy. Cancer Research UK is not able to offer visa sponsorship.
Recruitment process: Competency based interview on-site at Kent Discovery Park
About The Team
CancerTools.org, the research tools arm of Cancer Research UK (CRUK), is a non-profit, global community of cancer researchers, academic institutes, and professional societies, with a shared mission to accelerate cancer research. CancerTools.org has a history of more than 40 years of managing and providing reagents to both academic and for-profit laboratories around the world, and aims to accelerate cancer research by making research tools widely and easily available, extending CRUK’s influence to a global audience.
Responsibilities
- Planning, coordination, and supervision of cell culture lab activities
- The expansion, maintenance, quality control and cell banking of a variety of cell lines
- With support of the wider team, investigate and troubleshoot production issues
- Provide support to the Lab Operations Manager for the day to day running of the lab and deputise when required
- Maintaining clear record of cell culture documentation (protocols, CoAs, inventory, QC data, etc.)
- Support with new process development, including onboarding of new cell lines or cell line-related technologies
- Work closely with the wider operations team to ensure smooth production and despatch of research materials
- Clean and maintain laboratory facilities in line with quality and health and safety requirements
- Work in accordance with site and legislative employment policies and safety requirements.
Qualifications
- Extensive proven professional experience in a cell biology laboratory environment
- Significant experience of culturing and maintaining various types of cell lines
- Demonstrable evidence of troubleshooting and working with problematic cell lines
- Involvement with the set up and roll-out of new processes within a Cell Culture laboratory
- Experience in process development
- Previous involvement in the training and development of new starters
- Knowledge of Health and Safety protocols associated with a cell culture laboratory
- Experience in managing stock levels (consumables and cell line inventory)
- Excellent attention to detail and accurate record keeping
Organisation values
- Bold: Act with ambition, courage and determination
- Credible: Act with rigour and professionalism
- Human: Act to have a positive impact on people
- Together: Act inclusively and collaboratively
We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and cultures, in particular those from ethnic minority backgrounds who are currently under-represented, and believe that a diverse workforce will help us to beat cancer sooner.
We don’t expect everyone to meet all of the criteria listed.
If you’re interested in applying and excited about working with us but are unsure if you have the right skills and experience we’d still love to hear from you.
What will I gain?
We create a working environment that supports your wellbeing and provide a generous benefits package, a wide range of career and personal development opportunities and high-quality tools. Our policies and processes enable you to improve your work-life balance, take positive steps in your career and achieve your personal wellbeing goals. You can explore our benefits by visiting our careers web page.
How do I apply?
We operate an anonymised shortlisting process in our commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion. CVs are required for all applications; but we won’t be able to view them until we invite you for an interview. Instead, we ask you to complete the work history section of the online application form for us to be able to assess you fairly and objectively.
For more information on this career opportunity please visit our website or contact us at recruitment@cancer.org.uk.
For more updates on our work and careers, follow us on: LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X and YouTube.
There’s a place for everyone at Cancer Research UK. Our vision is to create a charity where everyone feels like they belong, benefits from and participates in, the work we do. We’re committed to creating an inclusive culture where everyone can be themselves and reach their full potential.
We actively encourage applications from people of all backgrounds and cultures, in particular those from ethnic minority backgrounds who are currently under-represented, and believe that a diverse workforce will help us to beat cancer sooner.
If you’re interested in applying and excited about working with us but are unsure if you have the right skills and experience we’d still love to hear from you. We don’t expect everyone to meet all of the criteria listed.
We want to see every candidate performing at their best throughout the job application process, interview process and whilst at work. We therefore ask you to inform us of any concerns you have or any adjustments you might need to enable this to happen by emailing recruitment@cancer.org.uk.
Unfortunately, we are unable to recruit anyone below the age of 18, so that we can protect young people from health & safety and safeguarding risks.
Seniority level
- Mid-Senior level
Employment type
- Full-time
Job function
- Research, Analyst, and Information Technology
Industries
- Biotechnology
Senior Technician: Cell Culture employer: Cancer Research Technology
At Cancer Research UK, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and dynamic work environment at our Kent Discovery Park location. As a Senior Technician in Cell Culture, you will benefit from a generous benefits package, opportunities for personal and professional growth, and the chance to contribute to meaningful research that accelerates cancer breakthroughs. Our inclusive culture fosters collaboration and innovation, ensuring that every team member feels valued and empowered to make a positive impact.
Contact Details:
Cancer Research Technology Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Technician: Cell Culture
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends and technologies in cell culture. Being knowledgeable about advancements in the field can help you stand out during the competency-based interview, showing your passion and commitment to continuous learning.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare specific examples of how you've successfully implemented process improvements in previous roles. This will demonstrate your proactive approach and ability to thrive in a dynamic environment, which is crucial for this position.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or former employees of Cancer Research UK or similar organisations. They can provide valuable insights into the company culture and expectations, helping you tailor your responses during the interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Brush up on your knowledge of Quality Management Systems, particularly ISO9001. Understanding these protocols will not only prepare you for the role but also show your attention to detail and commitment to maintaining high standards in the lab.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Technician: Cell Culture
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your extensive experience in a cell biology laboratory, particularly focusing on your skills in culturing and maintaining various types of cell lines. Use specific examples to demonstrate your troubleshooting abilities and involvement in process development.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that reflects your passion for cancer research and your alignment with the organisation's values. Mention how your previous experiences have prepared you for the role and how you can contribute to the team at CancerTools.org.
Highlight Relevant Skills:In your application, emphasise your attention to detail and record-keeping skills, as these are crucial for maintaining quality within the laboratory. Discuss any experience you have with health and safety protocols in a cell culture environment.
Follow Application Instructions:Ensure you complete the work history section of the online application form accurately, as this is essential for the anonymised shortlisting process. Double-check that all information is complete before submitting your application through our website.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cancer Research Technology
✨Showcase Your Cell Culture Expertise
Be prepared to discuss your extensive experience in cell culture. Highlight specific techniques you've mastered and any challenges you've overcome with problematic cell lines. This will demonstrate your hands-on knowledge and problem-solving skills.
✨Emphasise Process Improvement
Since the role involves developing and implementing new processes, come ready to share examples of how you've successfully improved lab processes in the past. Discuss any innovative solutions you've introduced and their impact on efficiency or quality.
✨Demonstrate Attention to Detail
Given the importance of accurate record-keeping in this role, be sure to mention your methods for maintaining meticulous documentation. You might want to provide examples of how your attention to detail has positively influenced lab operations.
✨Align with Organisational Values
Familiarise yourself with Cancer Research UK's values: Bold, Credible, Human, and Together. Prepare to discuss how you embody these values in your work and how they resonate with your personal approach to research and collaboration.
