At a Glance
- Tasks: Support community-based infectious disease studies and contribute to impactful research.
- Company: Join Imperial College London, a top global university making a difference.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous leave, flexible working, and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive team with excellent career growth at a world-leading institution.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on pandemic preparedness and engage with diverse communities.
- Qualifications: Degree in Life Sciences, lab experience, and interest in public health research.
The predicted salary is between 35000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: Hammersmith Campus - On site only
About the role
Are you an enthusiastic early‑career scientist who wants to make a real difference in the UK’s pandemic preparedness? In this hands‑on role, you will support community‑based infectious disease studies that combine laboratory science, data analysis and public health research to strengthen the UK’s response to future outbreaks. You’ll join a supportive interdisciplinary team within the NIHR Health Protection Research Unit (HPRU) in Respiratory Infections at Imperial College London, working closely with the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).
What you would be doing
Your work will build on the HPRU’s ground‑breaking community household studies from the COVID‑19 pandemic, which defined key parameters of SARS‑CoV‑2 transmission and infectiousness and shaped national and international policy. You will help set up and deliver household and care home research studies, working with biological samples and ensuring high‑quality data collection. Your work will include performing immunology and molecular assays, managing biobank samples, and contributing to the analysis and integration of laboratory and epidemiological data. You will collaborate with nurses, clinicians, data analysts and investigators, and engage directly with study participants and communities to support trusted and inclusive research delivery.
What we are looking for
- A degree in Life Sciences, Biomedical Sciences or a related subject
- Experience handling biological samples and performing laboratory techniques (e.g. ELISA, RNA extraction, PBMC processing)
- Experience analysing biological or clinical data using programming tools such as R or Python
- An interest in infectious diseases, immunology and public health research
- Strong attention to detail and ability to work to tight timelines
- willingness to work flexibly, including late shifts
- An interest in engaging with participants and diverse communities in research
What we can offer you
- The opportunity to work on nationally and internationally impactful pandemic preparedness research
- Training and development in advanced laboratory techniques, data science and public engagement
- The opportunity to continue your career at a world‑leading institution and be part of our mission to use science for humanity
- A sector‑leading salary and benefits package, including generous annual leave and pension schemes
- Access to a range of workplace benefits including a flexible working policy from day one, generous family leave packages, on‑site leisure facilities and cycle‑to‑work scheme.
- Interest‑free season ticket loan schemes for travel.
- Be part of a diverse, inclusive and collaborative work culture with various staff networks and resources to support your personal and professional wellbeing.
Further Information
This is a full‑time post (35 hours per week), fixed‑term contract for 24 months. Please note that this role will require flexible working hours, including late shifts, to support timely sample processing and study activities. If you require any further details about the role, please contact: Dr Seran Hakki – s.hakki@imperial.ac.uk.
About Imperial
Welcome to Imperial, a global top‑ten university where scientific imagination leads to world‑changing impact. Join us and be part of something bigger. From global health to climate change, AI to business leadership, we navigate some of the world’s toughest challenges. Whatever your role, your contribution will have a lasting impact.
£41,005 to £42,755 per annum
Research Technician employer: Imperial College London
Imperial College London’s Dyson School of Design Engineering is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that fosters innovation and collaboration in the field of Fair and Responsible AI. With a strong emphasis on research impact and teaching excellence, employees benefit from extensive professional development opportunities and the chance to engage with leading external partners, all within a prestigious academic environment in one of the world's most dynamic cities.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Technician
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in your field, especially those connected to the role you're after. Attend events, join online forums, and don’t be shy about asking for informational interviews – it’s all about making those connections!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its recent projects. Show them you’re not just another candidate; you’re genuinely interested in their work, especially in pandemic preparedness and public health research. Tailor your answers to reflect that passion!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Get a friend or mentor to do mock interviews with you. This will help you articulate your experiences with biological samples and data analysis confidently, making you stand out when it counts.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search. So, get your application in and let’s make a difference together!
We think you need these skills to ace Research Technician
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience, especially in handling biological samples and laboratory techniques. We want to see how your skills align with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your background in Life Sciences or Biomedical Sciences!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your enthusiasm for the role and the impact you want to make in pandemic preparedness. We love seeing candidates who are passionate about public health and infectious diseases, so let that passion come through!
Showcase Your Data Skills:Since this role involves analysing biological data, mention any experience you have with programming tools like R or Python. We’re keen on candidates who can integrate lab and epidemiological data, so highlight any relevant projects or coursework.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother application process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets into the right hands, and we can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Imperial College London
✨Know Your Science
Brush up on your knowledge of infectious diseases, immunology, and the specific laboratory techniques mentioned in the job description. Be ready to discuss your experience with ELISA, RNA extraction, and PBMC processing, as well as how these skills can contribute to pandemic preparedness.
✨Show Your Data Skills
Since data analysis is a key part of this role, make sure you can talk about your experience with programming tools like R or Python. Prepare examples of how you've used these tools to analyse biological or clinical data, and be ready to discuss any challenges you faced and how you overcame them.
✨Engage with the Community
This role involves working closely with study participants and diverse communities. Think about your past experiences engaging with people in research settings. Be prepared to share how you would approach building trust and inclusivity in your research delivery.
✨Demonstrate Flexibility and Organisation
Given the need for flexible working hours and tight timelines, highlight your organisational skills and ability to adapt. Share examples from your previous roles where you successfully managed multiple tasks or adjusted to changing priorities while maintaining high-quality work.
