Research Laboratory Technician

Cambridge; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 25,000 - GBP 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious research institution in Cambridge is seeking a Research Laboratory Technician to support cutting-edge plant science research. The successful candidate will develop workflows for molecular cloning and assist in laboratory operations. Strong expertise in molecular cloning and microbiology is essential, alongside excellent organisational skills. You will thrive in a busy research environment, contributing significantly to the team while ensuring safety and compliance. This fixed-term role offers family-friendly benefits and development opportunities.

Benefits

Family-friendly benefits

Development opportunities

Qualifications

• Substantial hands-on experience in a biological research laboratory.
• Strong skills in molecular cloning and microbiology.
• Ability to adapt protocols and troubleshoot technical issues.

Responsibilities

• Support research activities by developing molecular cloning workflows.
• Carry out transformations in E. coli, Agrobacterium, and Arabidopsis.
• Help maintain laboratory protocols and provide technical guidance.

Skills

Molecular cloning

Microbiology

Organisational skills

Troubleshooting

Communication

Education

HND/HNC or Level 4/5 vocational qualification

Job description

Applications are invited for a Research Laboratory Technician in the group of Professor Henrik Jonsson at the Sainsbury Laboratory, Cambridge University on a BBSRC project entitled "Tipping the balance: utilising hormonal cross-talk to control stem cell plasticity". The successful applicant will support cutting-edge plant science research on the relationship between auxin and cytokinin in shoot meristem regulation.

The role requires strong technical expertise, excellent organisational skills, and the ability to work independently while supporting the broader research team. You will contribute to the design, adaptation and delivery of molecular, microbiological and plant-based experimental workflows.

Key responsibilities include supporting research activities by developing and adapting molecular cloning workflows (Gateway, Gibson and Golden Gate), carrying out transformations in E. coli, Agrobacterium and Arabidopsis, and screening and maintaining transgenic Arabidopsis lines. The role includes growing and propagating Arabidopsis plants, and distributing seed stocks with accurate documentation. You will help maintain laboratory protocols, provide technical guidance to students and researchers, and contribute to ordering, stock monitoring and general laboratory organisation, as well as supporting health and safety procedures.

The successful applicant will have substantial hands-on experience in a biological research laboratory, with strong skills in molecular cloning and microbiology. Experience in plant handling is desirable but not essential. You will be able to adapt protocols, troubleshoot technical issues and perform precise experimental work, while also communicating effectively. Excellent organisational and prioritisation abilities are essential, along with the capacity to manage multiple tasks in a busy research environment. Applicants should hold an HND/HNC or Level 4/5 vocational qualification, or possess equivalent practical research experience.

Please complete the application form highlighting your suitability for the position and why you want to join the Jonsson group and the BBSRC project.

The Laboratory provides a welcoming and collaborative environment with a wide-range of family-friendly benefits and development opportunities. More about the Sainsbury Laboratory and details of what the University offers to employees can be found at: http://www.slcu.cam.ac.uk/ .

The post is available from May 2026.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for 3 years in the first instance.

Click the 'Apply' button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.

Please quote reference PT48623 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.