"Translational Research Technician"

University of Leicester - Cancer Sciences

Vacancy terms: Full-time, or job share considered, fixed term contract until 31 October 2026

Salary details: Grade 4 - £24,590 to £26,707 per annum, pro-rata if part-time

Hours per week: 35

About the role

The Leicester Experimental Cancer Medicine Centre (ECMC) is part of a UK-wide network dedicated to advancing early-phase and translational cancer research. Working across the University of Leicester and University Hospitals of Leicester NHS Trust, the ECMC provides the infrastructure and expertise to deliver first-in-human trials and biomarker-driven studies. As a Translational Research Technician, you will play a vital role in supporting tissue collection activities for a range of clinical research studies and early-phase trials. This includes collecting samples from operating theatres and clinics across Leicester hospital sites, ensuring timely and accurate processing in accordance with Good Clinical Laboratory Practice (GCLP) standards. You will also contribute to maintaining laboratory facilities, monitoring equipment, and supporting training for staff and students in tissue handling and storage.

This position requires close collaboration with clinical teams and research colleagues to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements and audit readiness at all times. You will be part of a dynamic environment where flexibility is key, as sample collections may occasionally be delayed or rescheduled. Your work will directly support the ECMC’s mission to accelerate the development of new cancer treatments and diagnostics, making a real difference to patient care.

About you

You will hold a minimum of NVQ Level 3 (such as BTEC or ONC) in a relevant subject and have experience in a technical or clinical role involving human tissue samples. A sound understanding of regulatory requirements, including Good Clinical Practice and health and safety standards, is essential, along with excellent attention to detail and strong organisational skills. You will be comfortable working in both clinical and laboratory settings, including operating theatres, and demonstrate the ability to work independently as well as part of a team. Flexibility and a willingness to travel between hospital sites are important, as is a commitment to continuous professional development.

You will be motivated to contribute to research that improves outcomes for cancer patients. Experience in an NHS or clinical research environment and knowledge of GCLP standards would be advantageous, but training will be provided where necessary.

Additional information

Informal enquiries are welcome and should be made to Susan Lehmann on sl410@leicester.ac.uk

Applications for job share will be considered.

As part of the University’s ongoing commitment to professional development, this role will also be considered on a seconded basis for existing staff members. Please ensure this is discussed with your line manager prior to applying.

The University of Leicester has been changing the world, and changing people’s lives, for 100 years. When you join us, you’ll become part of a community of Citizens of Change, which includes not only our staff and our current students but also thousands of Leicester graduates around the world.

As a diverse and forward-thinking employer, we embed the principles of equity, diversity and inclusion into everything we do. That includes not just our core missions of teaching and research, but also our support for staff, students and our local community through our values of Inspiring, Impactful and Inclusive.

We’re committed to the wellbeing of all our staff and to the sustainability of our environment, on our campus and beyond.

Advert closes midnight on: 10 April 2026