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- Tasks: Support lab operations by preparing media, maintaining equipment, and ensuring safety standards.
- Company: Join the John Innes Centre, a leading research institute in plant and microbial genetics.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, full-time hours, and a chance to work in a dynamic research environment.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in scientific research while gaining valuable lab experience.
- Qualifications: 5 GCSEs and 2 A Levels; previous lab experience is essential.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with a commitment to diversity and excellent career development opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 29050 £ per year.
Contract: 12 months, full time
Salary: £24,000 - £29,050 per annum, depending on qualifications and experience
Location: John Innes Centre, Norwich, UK
Closing date: 8 April 2026
Responsibilities
- Prepare and distribute sterile media, supplies and lab-ware.
- Wash, dry and distribute laboratory glassware.
- Process microbiological waste and other laboratory waste.
- Operate and maintain laboratory equipment such as autoclaves, dishwashers, pH meters, dispensing equipment.
- Maintain communal consumable stocks and routine equipment maintenance.
- Carry out quality assurance and health and safety procedures.
- Provide guidance, support and training to staff.
- Perform any other duties agreed with line manager.
Qualifications & Experience
- 5 GCSEs or equivalent at A*–C (including English and Maths).
- 2 A Levels or equivalent.
- Basic knowledge of the preparation of growth media (desirable).
- Previous laboratory experience (essential).
- Experience in a customer service environment (essential).
- Experience in stock management and inventory (desirable).
- Experience using laboratory equipment such as autoclaves, pH meters, etc. (desirable).
Skills & Personal Attributes
- Competent computer skills and file sharing systems.
- Understanding of quality assurance and health and safety.
- Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work in a small team.
- Independent, proactive and enthusiastic about scientific support.
- Excellent organisational and time‑management skills.
- Good written and verbal communication.
- Attention to detail and ability to move large/heavy items.
- Willingness to work outside standard hours when required.
- Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusive values.
Additional Information
This is a full-time maternity cover post expected to last for 12 months, which may be shorter or longer depending on the absent employee’s return. The position does not meet UKVI requirements to provide visa sponsorship. The Institute is an equal‑opportunity employer, a Disability Confident organisation and holds a Gold Athena SWAN award and a Stonewall Diversity Champion programme membership.
About the John Innes Centre
The John Innes Centre is an independent, international centre of excellence in plant and microbial genetics, carrying out fundamental and strategic research, training scientists and making findings available to society. It is a registered charity (No. 223852) and is grant‑aided by the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council.
Laboratory Support Technician (Maternity cover) in Norwich employer: The John Innes Centre
Contact Detail:
The John Innes Centre Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Laboratory Support Technician (Maternity cover) in Norwich
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend relevant events, and connect with current employees at the John Innes Centre. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to laboratory support roles. Think about your previous experiences and how they relate to the responsibilities listed in the job description. We want you to shine!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your skills! If you have experience with specific lab equipment or processes, be ready to discuss them in detail. Highlighting your hands-on experience can set you apart from other candidates.
✨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!
We think you need these skills to ace Laboratory Support Technician (Maternity cover) in Norwich
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience, especially in laboratory settings. We want to see how your skills match the responsibilities listed in the job description, so don’t hold back on showcasing your previous lab work!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about the role and how your background makes you a great fit. We love seeing enthusiasm, so let your personality come through!
Showcase Your Skills: Don’t forget to mention your computer skills and any experience with laboratory equipment. We’re looking for someone who can hit the ground running, so highlight any relevant technical know-how you have.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need right there!
How to prepare for a job interview at The John Innes Centre
✨Know Your Lab Basics
Brush up on your knowledge of laboratory equipment and procedures, especially those mentioned in the job description like autoclaves and pH meters. Being able to discuss your previous experience with these tools will show that you're ready to hit the ground running.
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
Since this role involves working closely with others, be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully collaborated in a team. Highlight your strong interpersonal skills and any experiences where you provided support or training to colleagues.
✨Demonstrate Attention to Detail
In a lab environment, attention to detail is crucial. Be ready to discuss specific instances where your meticulous nature helped prevent errors or improved processes. This will reassure them that you can handle the responsibilities of maintaining quality assurance and health and safety.
✨Prepare Questions About the Role
Think of insightful questions to ask about the position and the John Innes Centre. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you understand if it's the right fit for you. Ask about their approach to training and development, or how they maintain their commitment to equality and diversity.