At a Glance
- Tasks: Care for laboratory animals and ensure their welfare in a state-of-the-art facility.
- Company: Join the Babraham Institute, a leading research organisation with a collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy free parking, 25 days holiday, onsite gym, and employee discounts.
- Other info: Great career growth opportunities and a dynamic workplace await you!
- Why this job: Make a real difference in animal care while developing your skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: No experience needed for trainees; passion for animals is essential.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 30000 £ per year.
Trainee or Experienced Animal Technician
Location: Babraham Institute, Cambridge
Department: BSU (Biological Support Unit)
Contract type: Permanent
Hours: 37
Salary: Up to £30,570 per annum (depending on experience)
The Babraham Institute is AAALAC accredited and offers a state-of-the-art facility with a proven track record in providing services to world-leading research groups in academia and the commercial sector. Benefits include:
- Free parking
- Training and development opportunities
- 25 days holiday a year plus bank holidays (pro rata if applicable)
- 26 weeks of maternity leave at full pay
- 50% discount on Stagecoach travel
- Onsite bar, gym and tennis court, countryside walks
- Employee discounts and wellbeing platform
- Subsidised travel expenses for weekend overtime depending on distance travelled
We are seeking to employ either a Trainee Animal Technician or an Experienced Animal Technician into a permanent position. Career development and sideways movement within our multi-disciplined environment is encouraged. Full information on the Biological Support Unit (BSU) is available via the Institute’s website.
Overview
The Trainee position is an opportunity for those with no industry-specific experience but with a proven interest in working with animals. Trainees will be required to complete the IAT Level 2 Diploma and will attend the training to gain a Home Office Personal Licence. Upon successful completion of probation, completion of the IAT diploma, and routine use of a Home Office personal licence, the Trainee Animal Technician will be considered for promotion to the Experienced Animal Technician role (BI9).
Experienced Animal Technicians are responsible for the care and welfare of rodents housed at various levels of containment using predominantly IVCs but also flexible-film isolators and other specialist containment systems.
Responsibilities
- Care for laboratory animals in accordance with SOPs and training
- Operate within containment systems and follow safety and regulatory requirements
- Attend training and achieve required qualifications (IAT Level 2 Diploma, Home Office Personal Licence)
- Work within an overtime rota covering animal care and procedural work during weekends and public holidays
- Potentially work in other areas of the Small Animal Facility as required
Qualifications
- Trainee: no industry-specific experience required; must have interest in working with animals; must complete IAT Level 2 Diploma and training for Home Office Personal Licence
- Experienced Technician: holds or has held a Home Office Personal Licence and has weekly commitment to regulated procedures
The Institute welcomes applications from all sections of society and is a Disability Confident Employer. The closing date for applications is 6 October 2025.
NO AGENCIES PLEASE
REF-223 984
Trainee or Experienced Animal Technician in Cambridge employer: The Babraham Institute
The Babraham Institute is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and dynamic work environment for both Trainee and Experienced Animal Technicians. With a strong emphasis on employee development, you will benefit from comprehensive training opportunities, generous holiday allowances, and access to state-of-the-art facilities in the picturesque setting of Cambridge. Our commitment to employee wellbeing is reflected in our onsite amenities and discounts, making this an ideal place for those passionate about animal care and research.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Trainee or Experienced Animal Technician in Cambridge
✨Explore University Career Fairs
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✨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.
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✨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 The Babraham Institute.
We think you need these skills to ace Trainee or Experienced Animal Technician 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 The Babraham Institute.
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 Trainee or Experienced Animal Technician at The Babraham Institute.
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.
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How to prepare for a job interview at The Babraham Institute
✨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 The Babraham Institute.
✨Communicate Your Passion for Biology
As this is a full-time position, employers at The Babraham Institute 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!
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