At a Glance
- Tasks: Support plant science research by preparing materials and managing laboratory tasks.
- Company: Join Niab, a leader in crop transformation and plant science.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, generous sick pay, and comprehensive training.
- Other info: Located near Cambridge with great transport links and free parking.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in plant science while working in a dynamic lab environment.
- Qualifications: A-levels in biology or chemistry; lab experience preferred.
The predicted salary is between 24455 - 24455 £ per year.
Location: Park Farm, Histon, Cambridge, CB24 9AT
Starting Salary: £24,455 per annum, depending on experience.
Contract: Permanent
Working hours: 37 hours per week (Monday–Friday)
Closing date: 30 April 2026
About the Role
We are looking to recruit a Tissue Culture Laboratory Assistant to work in our Crop Transformation department. The team provides specialist tissue culture and transformation expertise to academic collaborators and commercial partners across a wide range of crop species. In this hands‑on laboratory role, you will support the smooth running of the Crop Transformation Group by ensuring essential materials, equipment and consumables are prepared, maintained and available.
Your key responsibilities will include:
- Preparing glassware, media and tissue culture stocks
- Managing stock control, including ordering chemicals and consumables
- Operating the autoclave for sterilisation and GM waste disposal
- Assisting with GM plant care, seed harvest and seed processing
- Supporting general laboratory, growth room and glasshouse tasks as required
You will work across laboratory, growth room, glasshouse and office environments at our Park Farm campus. The role involves regular use of laboratory equipment such as a media maker and autoclave, and occasional manual handling of items up to 25 kg.
About You
We are seeking someone who is enthusiastic, organised and keen to contribute to plant science research. You will have:
- A‑levels or equivalent in biology, chemistry or related science subjects
- Experience working in a laboratory environment
- Good verbal and written communication skills
- Strong numeracy and literacy
- Excellent attention to detail and accuracy
- Competency with Microsoft Office (e.g., Word, Excel)
- Good colour vision and manual dexterity
- A positive attitude towards working with GM crops
It would be an advantage if you also have experience in aseptic technique, media preparation or stock control.
Location
The role is based at Niab’s Park Farm Campus, Histon, Cambridge, CB24 9AT — just 4 miles from Cambridge city centre. The site offers free on‑site parking and is well connected by cycle routes and regular bus services to the city centre and railway station. It is also close to Junction 32 of the A14, with easy access to the M11, A10 and A11.
Benefits
Benefits include 25 days holiday plus public holidays and 3 days off during the Christmas period, generous sick pay, attractive pension scheme, income protection, life assurance, employee discount scheme and a comprehensive training programme.
Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
Niab actively promotes equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society. As a Disability Confident Employer, we have a positive approach to employing people living with a disability. Niab is an equal opportunities employer and welcomes applications from all suitably qualified candidates. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities and do not discriminate on the grounds of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation, or any other characteristic protected under the Equality Act 2010.
Niab reserves the right to withdraw or close this vacancy at any time.
Tissue Culture Laboratory Assistant in Cambridge employer: NIAB
At Niab, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that fosters employee growth and development. Located at our Park Farm campus in Histon, Cambridge, we provide a range of benefits including generous holiday allowances, a comprehensive training programme, and a commitment to equality and diversity, making it an ideal place for those passionate about plant science research to thrive.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Tissue Culture Laboratory Assistant in Cambridge
✨Explore University Career Fairs
University career fairs are gold mines, especially for biology roles. We should hit up these events, connect with potential employers like NIAB, and get the inside scoop on full-time opportunities. Plus, it's a fab way to showcase our passion for the field!
✨Join Biology Communities
Get involved in local biology associations or online forums—these are great for networking and hearing about job openings before they hit the mainstream. Engaging in meaningful discussions can help us stand out and get noticed by hiring managers in the biology sector.
✨Attend Industry Conferences
Plan to attend biology-related conferences or workshops. These events are perfect for making connections, learning about the latest research, and even finding out which companies, like NIAB, are expanding and hiring full-time positions. Don't forget to bring your business cards!
✨Show Off Your Research Skills
When you land that interview, be ready to flaunt your research experience and practical skills. Discuss any lab work, projects, or internships that demonstrate your expertise in biology. We want to make sure the interviewers see exactly why we're a great fit for the role at NIAB.
We think you need these skills to ace Tissue Culture Laboratory Assistant in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Lab Skills:In the biology field, it's super important to highlight any relevant lab skills. Make sure to include techniques you’ve mastered, like PCR or chromatography, right in your CV. This helps us see your hands-on experience and how you can contribute at NIAB.
Tailor Your Cover Letter with Passion:When writing your cover letter, let your enthusiasm for biology shine through! Share specific examples of projects or research that fuel your passion. It’s the perfect way to convey your motivation and fit for the role of Tissue Culture Laboratory Assistant at NIAB.
Include Relevant Certifications:If you’ve got any certifications related to biology—like Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) or even specific software for data analysis—be sure to mention those. They can really set you apart from other applicants and show us you’re dedicated to your professional development.
Highlight Team Projects and Communication Skills:Biology often involves collaboration, so don’t shy away from mentioning any team projects you've worked on in your CV. Emphasise how you communicated findings or contributed in group settings. This gives us insight into how you’d fit into our team at NIAB.
How to prepare for a job interview at NIAB
✨Brush Up on Your Technical Knowledge
Get ready to dive deep into the scientific concepts related to your field! For a biology role, you'll likely face questions about experimental design, data analysis techniques, and possibly even lab protocols. Make sure you're clear on your coursework and any practical experiences you've had.
✨Show Off Your Lab Skills
Hands-on experience can make or break an interview in biology. Be prepared to discuss your previous lab work, including techniques like PCR, gel electrophoresis, or microscopy. Bring a portfolio of your lab reports or relevant projects to really impress the hiring team at NIAB.
✨Communicate Your Passion for Biology
As this is a full-time position, employers at NIAB are looking for someone who is not just qualified, but truly enthusiastic about biology. Be ready to share specific moments or projects that ignited your interest in the field. A personal story can really set you apart!
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Don’t underestimate the power of behavioural questions! Expect to discuss situations from your studies or internships where you showed teamwork, problem-solving, or conflict resolution. This is your chance to show that you're not only a great biologist but also a great colleague!
