At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare samples and operate cutting-edge lab instruments for environmental analysis.
- Company: Join a leading life sciences organisation committed to impactful research.
- Benefits: Enjoy 27 days annual leave, flexible working, and health support.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with opportunities for growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a difference in environmental science while gaining hands-on lab experience.
- Qualifications: Passion for chemistry, attention to detail, and teamwork skills required.
The predicted salary is between 22200 - 23300 £ per year.
Salary - £26,206 - £27,808
Permanent
Closing date for applications: 30 November 2025 with interviews taking place in early December. We reserve the right to close this advert early if we find the right candidate, so we encourage you to apply early.
Are you fascinated by life sciences or chemistry and eager to get hands‑on experience in a lab? Do you care about the environment and want to use your skills to contribute to meaningful research? We have an exciting opportunity for an entry‑level Laboratory Assistant to join our Analytical Chemistry Group in Lancaster. This is a unique opportunity to analyse inorganic, organic and stable isotope analytes in a wide range of environmental samples, contributing to the understanding of a multitude of environmental questions.
You’ll be working in world‑class laboratories (accredited to ISO17025:2017), using cutting‑edge instruments and contributing to the delivery of high‑quality chemistry data, analysis, and results for a wide range of science areas. You will be joining an established, diverse, and busy team where you will be responsible for:
- Preparing materials, equipment, and resources for laboratory analyses
- Sample management and preparation (drying, weighing, grinding), sample extraction and clean up
- Operating, maintaining, and troubleshooting laboratory instruments used in the analysis of alkalinity, pH, TC and TN, etc.
- Procurement - purchasing general equipment and reagents
- Uploading data into Microsoft Excel, plotting, and calculating results
- General laboratory housekeeping duties including: safe storage of chemicals, maintaining a safe and tidy laboratory environment, washing and cleaning of instruments, ensuring the supply of consumable items, stock rotation, waste disposal
- Adherence to COSHH and Risk Assessment guidelines
Qualifications
- A keen interest in chemistry and life sciences
- Previous experience working in a busy laboratory, preparing and managing samples
- The ability to work independently, with good time management skills
- Excellent communication skills and attention to detail
- A team‑oriented approach and be able to work collaboratively with others
- Working knowledge of Microsoft Excel
- Knowledge of health and safety best practice within a laboratory environment, or able to follow health and safety protocols
Benefits
- 27 days annual leave (rising to 29 days after 5 years’ service) plus 3 days for Christmas closure
- 10% employer pension contribution
- Flexible and hybrid working arrangements (role dependant)
- Peer reward and recognition scheme
- Dental insurance, gym/fitness discounts, retail discount portal
- Enhanced maternity and paternity leave
- 24‑hour, 365‑day support with physical, mental, social, health or financial issues and much more...
If this opportunity resonates with you and aligns with your personal career goals, the team would love to receive your application. Please apply by submitting your CV along with a covering letter that highlights any qualifications, skills or experience you believe are relevant to this role.
At UKCEH, we are committed to fostering an inclusive and equitable workplace where everyone – regardless of background, identity, ability, or circumstance – has the opportunity to thrive. As a Disability Confident employer, we actively encourage applications from neurodivergent candidates and those with disabilities. We are happy to provide any adjustments or support you may need throughout the application process – please don’t hesitate to reach out. So, if you’re excited about this role but your experience doesn’t align perfectly with every requirement, we’d love to hear from you anyway. You may be just the right fit for this role or another within our wider team.
Please note: Unfortunately, we are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this role and this does not qualify for endorsement to support a Global Talent Visa application. If you are considering pursuing self‑sponsorship, please indicate this in your application so we can take it into account during the recruitment process.
Laboratory Assistant in Lancaster employer: UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology
At UKCEH, we pride ourselves on being an excellent employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that values diversity and collaboration. As a Laboratory Assistant in Lancaster, you will benefit from flexible working arrangements, generous annual leave, and a comprehensive benefits package, all while contributing to impactful environmental research in state-of-the-art laboratories. We are committed to your professional growth, providing opportunities for skill development and recognition within a dynamic team dedicated to advancing life sciences and chemistry.
Contact Details:
UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Laboratory Assistant in Lancaster
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the company! Research their projects and values, especially in environmental science. This will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your lab skills! If you can, brush up on sample preparation and instrument operation. Being able to discuss your hands-on experience confidently can really set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current employees or alumni who work in similar roles. They can provide insider tips and might even refer you internally, which can give you a leg up in the application process.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and contributing to meaningful research.
We think you need these skills to ace Laboratory Assistant in Lancaster
Some tips for your application 🫡
Get Your CV Spot On:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Laboratory Assistant role. Highlight any relevant experience, especially in lab settings, and don’t forget to showcase your attention to detail – it’s key for this job!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about chemistry and life sciences, and how your skills align with what we’re looking for. Keep it concise but impactful!
Show Off Your Team Spirit:We love a team player! In your application, mention any experiences where you’ve worked collaboratively. It’s important for us that you can work well with others in our busy lab environment.
Apply Early!:Don’t wait until the last minute to submit your application. We might close the advert early if we find the right candidate, so get your application in through our website as soon as you can!
How to prepare for a job interview at UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology
✨Know Your Chemistry
Brush up on your chemistry knowledge, especially around inorganic and organic analytes. Be prepared to discuss how your interest in life sciences aligns with the role and how you can contribute to meaningful research.
✨Showcase Your Lab Skills
Highlight any previous lab experience you have, particularly in sample preparation and instrument operation. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've managed samples or troubleshot equipment in the past.
✨Demonstrate Attention to Detail
Since this role requires excellent attention to detail, prepare to discuss situations where your meticulousness made a difference. Use examples that showcase your methodical approach to tasks in a controlled environment.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Health and Safety Protocols
Understand COSHH and Risk Assessment guidelines as they are crucial in a lab setting. Be ready to talk about how you ensure safety in your work and how you would maintain a tidy laboratory environment.
