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"Research Laboratory Technician"

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Research Laboratory Technician

Assistant staff

22 February 2026

Location

Cambridge, UK

Cambridge University

Type

Fixed-term (3 years)

Start Date

May 2026

Salary

£31,236-£35,608

Required Qualifications

Molecular cloning (Gateway, Gibson, Golden Gate)
Transformations in E. coli, Agrobacterium, Arabidopsis
Arabidopsis plant propagation and maintenance
HND/HNC or Level 4/5 qualification or equivalent experience
Microbiology and troubleshooting skills

Research Areas

Plant science
Auxin-cytokinin hormonal cross-talk
Shoot meristem regulation
Stem cell plasticity
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Research Laboratory Technician

Research Laboratory Technician

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.

More information about the Jonsson lab can be found here.

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.

All scientific enquiries should be directed to Professor Jonsson at henrik.jonsson@slcu.cam.ac.uk

For questions regarding the application process, please email HR@slcu.cam.ac.uk

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.

Key information

Department/location

Sainsbury Laboratory

Salary

£31,236-£35,608

Reference

PT48623

Category

Assistant staff

Date published

26 January 2026

Closing date

22 February 2026

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Frequently Asked Questions

🔬What are the key responsibilities of the Research Laboratory Technician?

The role supports cutting-edge plant science research on auxin-cytokinin interactions in shoot meristem regulation. Duties include developing molecular cloning workflows (Gateway, Gibson, Golden Gate), performing transformations in E. coli, Agrobacterium, and Arabidopsis, screening transgenic lines, growing/propagating Arabidopsis plants, maintaining lab protocols, ordering supplies, and ensuring health & safety. Explore similar research jobs for more opportunities.

📚What qualifications and experience are required?

Applicants need substantial hands-on experience in a biological lab with strong molecular cloning and microbiology skills. Plant handling experience is desirable. Hold an HND/HNC or Level 4/5 vocational qualification, or equivalent practical experience. Excellent organisation, troubleshooting, and communication skills are essential. Review tips in our research assistant guide.

📝How do I apply for this position?

Complete the online application form via the 'Apply' button, highlighting your suitability and interest in the Jonsson group and BBSRC project. Quote reference PT48623. Scientific enquiries to Professor Henrik Jonsson at henrik.jonsson@slcu.cam.ac.uk; application queries to HR@slcu.cam.ac.uk. Closing date: 22 February 2026. See research assistant jobs for application best practices.

💰What is the salary, contract duration, and start date?

Salary: £31,236-£35,608. Contract: Fixed-term for 3 years in the first instance. Start date: Available from May 2026. The lab offers family-friendly benefits and development opportunities. University requires UK work eligibility. Check research jobs salary benchmarks.

🌱What research areas will I support in the Jonsson lab?

Join Professor Henrik Jonsson's group on the BBSRC-funded project "Tipping the balance: utilising hormonal cross-talk to control stem cell plasticity". Focus on auxin and cytokinin in shoot meristem regulation. More on the lab at Jonsson lab page. Related insights in postdoc research guide.

🤝Is plant experience essential, and what support is provided?

Plant handling is desirable but not essential; strong molecular biology and microbiology skills are prioritised. You'll provide technical guidance to students/researchers and maintain lab organisation. The collaborative environment includes training opportunities. Learn more via research assistant jobs.
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