Trainee Technician (Fixed Term)

Applications are invited for a trainee laboratory technician to support the research work in the Loke Centre for Trophoblast Research (Loke CTR), starting in early July 2026. This is an exciting opportunity for somebody passionate about getting started in scientific research to join a vibrant and friendly team of researchers in the heart of Cambridge and work in a state-of-the-art laboratory.

About the role

The role will support the research activities of the groups operating in the Loke CTR shared laboratory space based in the department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience (PDN). There are 6 research groups based permanently in the shared lab space, led by Prof Kathy Niakan, Prof Bill Colledge, Prof Erica Watson, Dr Thorsten Boroviak, Dr Courtney Hanna, and Dr Claire Senner. The role will provide direct support for approximately 30 researchers across these groups, including the Loke CTR Next Generation Fellows.

This is an exciting role with varied responsibilities. You will support our tissue culture facilities, a molecular biology lab, histology preparation room, and placental, endometrial and human embryo shared facility. You will provide laboratory housekeeping to ensure a well-functioning laboratory environment, including performing tissue culture, histology and molecular biology techniques, preparing stock solutions, monitoring and replenishing stocks, and contributing to the health and safety culture of the research groups. You will also provide support for the Biology of the Human Uterus in Pregnancy and Disease Tissue Bank, which is used by Loke CTR researchers across the University with an interest in pregnancy and early development. Find out more about the role in this short video about a day in the life of one of our previous Trainee Technicians: https://www.technicians.admin.cam.ac.uk/career-development/day-life-project.

The Loke Centre for Trophoblast Research (Loke CTR)

The Loke CTR is a centre of excellence to promote scientific study of the placenta, early development and maternal-fetal interactions during pregnancy. The Loke CTR unites 30 group leaders across 10 departments and affiliated institutes and provides diverse opportunities for scientific interaction through events, training and shared state-of-the-art facilities to support world leading trophoblast-related research across Cambridge. To find out more about the Loke CTR please visit our website at: https://www.trophoblast.cam.ac.uk/.

What you will need

You should be educated to a minimum of A-level or NVQ level 3 in a biological or other related subject and/or relevant laboratory experience in molecular biology. You should have a good understanding of molecular biology and previous research experience would be an advantage.

Good communication skills and the ability to work effectively within a team are essential. You should have meticulous documentation and note-keeping skills and be able to manage your time and work effectively.

Contract details

The position is flexible to suit individual needs. We will make an appointment for a minimum of 1 year in the first instances and welcome applications from candidates interested in full-time work or part-time work for a minimum of 4 days per week. Due to the nature of the work, you will be required to work on site. The salary for this role is £25,249.

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

How to apply

On the online form, in the suitability for the role section, you should explain the reasons for your application and how your knowledge, skills and experience match the requirements of the role. The full contact details for two referees should be provided. Please note that we will assume that you are happy for us to approach your referees at any stage, unless you indicate otherwise in the space provided on the form.

Closing date: midnight on 19 April 2026.

Interviews are expected to be held on 12 May 2026.

For an informal conversation about the role, please contact Erin Slatery, Loke CTR Executive Manager (execmgr.lokectr@pdn.cam.ac.uk). If you have any queries about the recruitment process, please contact Harriet Jipps, (pdnhr@pdn.cam.ac.uk).

Please quote reference PM48881 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

Department of Physiology, Development and Neuroscience

Salary

£25,249

Reference

PM48881

Category

Assistant staff