At a Glance
- Tasks: Support research with microbiology and plant experiments in a dynamic lab environment.
- Company: Join NetZeroNitrogen, a pioneering biotech company focused on sustainable agriculture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, employee share options, flexible working, and 36 days paid leave.
- Other info: Be part of a mission-driven team with opportunities for growth and collaboration.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on climate change while developing innovative biofertilizer solutions.
- Qualifications: Previous lab experience in microbiology or plant work and strong organisational skills.
The predicted salary is between 27000 - 32000 £ per year.
Location: Initially University Park, University of Nottingham, then moving in 2026 to new lab facilities in Nottingham or Loughborough.
About NetZeroNitrogen Ltd
NetZeroNitrogen (NZN) is a pioneering biotech company developing a bacterial biofertilizer that improves plant health, increases crop yields, and reduces reliance on synthetic fertilizers. Our vision is to become a global leader with a portfolio of biological products that provide sustainable food security. Simply put, NZN products offer farmers a highly effective, natural, and cost-efficient alternative to synthetic fertilizers.
We have a small, expert team with over 20 years of combined experience, successfully translating biological nitrogen-fixation technology into commercial products. Joining NZN means being part of a mission-driven team tackling one of the biggest challenges of our time: climate change.
The Role
We’re looking for a versatile Laboratory Technician to join our team. You’ll start by supporting research staff with microbiology and plant experiments and will grow into managing prep room operations once we move lab. This is a hands-on, dynamic role where no two days are the same, and your contributions will directly impact the company’s mission.
What You’ll Do
- Assist research staff with microbiology and plant experiments, including sowing, irrigation, and seedling sampling.
- Prepare culture media, reagents, bead tubes, and plant growth substrates.
- Maintain lab equipment and cleanliness: autoclaves, glassware, benches, microwaves, centrifuges.
- Track consumables and lab stocks, refill supplies, and label materials accurately.
- Conduct routine equipment checks and maintain logs of work.
- As the lab expands in the near future: oversee prep room operations, manage inventory, support research staff, and improve lab processes while maintaining safety standards.
About You
The right candidate is enthusiastic, proactive, and thoughtful – someone who genuinely cares about their work and colleagues. Being successful in this role is as much about attitude as skills: you should be flexible, considerate, collaborative, and motivated to contribute to a mission-driven team.
You’ll have:
- Previous lab experience, ideally in microbiology or plant work.
- Core lab skills: media preparation, aseptic techniques, autoclaving, and glassware handling.
- Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and reliability.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a small, hands-on team.
- Flexibility as responsibilities evolve with the lab move.
What We Offer:
- Competitive salary (£27,000 to £32,000, depending on experience).
- Employee share options, pension, private medical insurance, 36 days paid leave, flexible working.
- Exposure to cutting-edge biotech research and product development.
- Opportunities to take on increasing responsibility and grow with the company.
- A supportive, collaborative, and dynamic team environment where your contributions have real impact.
Application Process
Send your CV and a brief cover letter explaining your experience and interest in NZN. Please include your CV and cover letter in the same file when submitting. Shortlisting will start in early January with interviews soon after.
Other Information
You must have the right to live and work in the UK; please consult the Home Office website for guidance.
Industry: Biotechnology
Employment Type: Full-time preferred; part-time may be considered.
Laboratory Technician [Biotechnology/Plant Science] in Mansfield employer: NetZeroNitrogen
Contact Detail:
NetZeroNitrogen Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Laboratory Technician [Biotechnology/Plant Science] in Mansfield
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the biotech field, especially those at NetZeroNitrogen. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights that a job description just can't.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your microbiology and plant science knowledge. Be ready to discuss how your skills can directly contribute to NZN's mission of sustainable food security.
✨Tip Number 3
Show your enthusiasm! When you get the chance to speak with the team, let them know how passionate you are about biotechnology and how excited you are to be part of their mission-driven approach.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining the NZN team.
We think you need these skills to ace Laboratory Technician [Biotechnology/Plant Science] in Mansfield
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to explain why you're excited about the role at NetZeroNitrogen and how your experience aligns with their mission. Keep it concise but impactful!
Tailor Your CV: Don’t just send out the same CV for every application. Highlight your relevant lab experience, especially in microbiology or plant work, and make sure to showcase those core lab skills that NZN is looking for.
Show Your Enthusiasm: Let your passion for biotechnology and sustainability come through in your application. NZN wants someone who genuinely cares about their work and the environment, so don’t hold back on expressing your motivation!
Follow Submission Guidelines: Make sure to combine your CV and cover letter into one file before submitting. It’s a small detail, but it shows you can follow instructions and pay attention to detail, which is super important in a lab setting!
How to prepare for a job interview at NetZeroNitrogen
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your microbiology and plant science knowledge. Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in biotechnology, especially related to biofertilizers. Being able to discuss relevant topics will show your passion and expertise.
✨Show Your Enthusiasm
NetZeroNitrogen is all about tackling climate change, so let your enthusiasm shine through! Share why you're passionate about sustainable agriculture and how you can contribute to their mission. A genuine interest can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Prepare for Practical Questions
Expect questions that assess your core lab skills, like media preparation and aseptic techniques. Be ready to provide examples from your previous experience where you've successfully applied these skills. This will demonstrate your hands-on capability.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few thoughtful questions prepared. Inquire about the lab's future projects or how they envision the role evolving with the new facilities. This shows you're not just interested in the job, but also in the company's growth.