About the role
We have an exciting opportunity for a proactive and organised Laboratory Assistant to join the Department of Paediatrics at the University of Oxford. Supporting a busy research laboratory, you will play a key role in ensuring the smooth day-to-day operation of laboratory facilities, helping to create a safe, efficient and well-maintained environment that enables world-leading research.
Working as part of the laboratory management team, you will coordinate routine maintenance activities, monitor laboratory equipment and consumables, and support the organisation of laboratory spaces and facilities. You will liaise with researchers, contractors and service providers to ensure equipment is maintained and repairs are completed promptly. The role also includes supporting laboratory housekeeping, waste management, stock control, freezer monitoring, and maintaining high standards of health and safety across the laboratory environment.
This is a varied and hands-on role offering the opportunity to work closely with a multidisciplinary research community, contributing to the efficient running of laboratories that support innovative biomedical research. You will be encouraged to take ownership of your responsibilities, identify opportunities for service improvement, and contribute to maintaining an environment where research can thrive.
You will be working in a growing department within the Medical Sciences Division. The Department of Paediatrics is a world leader in child health research and hosts internationally renowned research programmes in drug development, gastroenterology, haematology, HIV, immunology, neuroimaging, neuromuscular diseases and vaccinology. The Oxford Vaccine Group is a world-leading academic research group conducting clinical and translational studies to advance vaccine development working with a diverse portfolio funded by industry, government and charitable organisations.
This position is offered full-time on a fixed-term contract initially for 1 year with the possibility to extend provided further external funding is available.
About the department
The Department of Paediatrics has been honoured with the Athena Swan Gold award, a national gender equality charter, recognising the Department's innovative policies and practices. We are committed to the professional development of our staff by providing up to ten paid days annually for skill enhancement and allowing applications for additional training funding. By joining us, you will have the opportunity to contribute to a forward-thinking department.
We welcome new staff with ideas who are willing to shape the future of the department that thinks about its staff and wellbeing. In addition to the University of Oxford wellbeing resources, the Department of Paediatrics sponsors weekly exercise classes such as yoga and bootcamp sessions as well as a choir. For staff on work visas, we also offer financial assistance towards visa renewal fees. These activities are designed to promote physical and mental wellbeing among staff members.
Please visit our website to find out more about the Department.
About you
You will have previous experience supporting laboratory, facilities or building operations, with the organisational skills and practical expertise to manage a varied workload in a busy environment. You will have a good understanding of health and safety practices, experience using Microsoft Office, and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of colleagues, contractors and laboratory users. You will be a proactive and reliable team member with strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently using your own initiative. Well organised and adaptable, you will take pride in maintaining high standards across laboratory facilities and be committed to supporting a safe, efficient and collaborative research environment. Experience of laboratory or building maintenance, stock management, equipment servicing, or relevant health and safety training would be advantageous.
Application Process
You will be required to upload a CV and Supporting Statement as part of your online application. The Supporting Statement should include a cover letter and should also clearly describe how you meet each of the selection criteria listed in the job description. Click here for information and advice on writing an effective Supporting Statement.
Diversity
Committed to equality and valuing diversity.
Only online applications received before 12.00 midday on 11 November 2026 will be considered. Interviews will be held as soon as possible thereafter.
The Department of Paediatrics offers an Interview Expense Reimbursement Policy in its efforts towards equality, diversity and inclusion. Should you be invited to interview, we will share further information about the policy at that stage.