Laboratory Operations Assistant

Laboratory Operations Assistant - Service Delivery

Reports to: Quadrant Manager (Technical Team Manager)

Details of the role: This is a full-time, 18-month fixed term post, on Crick terms & conditions.

The working pattern for this role is:

• Mon-Thu 8:00-16:15 and
• Friday 8:00-16:00

Please note, the interviews will be held in the second half of January.

About us

The Francis Crick Institute is Europe s largest biomedical research institute under one roof. Our world-class scientists and staff collaborate on vital research to help prevent, diagnose and treat illnesses such as cancer, heart disease, infectious diseases and neurodegenerative conditions.

The Crick is a place for collaboration, innovation and exploration across many disciplines. A space where the brightest minds can pursue big and bold ideas and discover answers to crucial scientific questions. We support them in a dynamic environment which fosters excellence with state-of-the-art infrastructure, cutting-edge facilities, and a creative and curious culture. We ve removed traditional boundaries of departments, divisions and disciplines and instead have an open approach that supports every researcher. This gives us the freedom to take risks and carry out high-quality, pioneering research. Creating a space for discovery without boundaries helps us to turn our science into benefits for human health and the economy.

About the role

We are looking for a Laboratory Operations Assistant to join the Service Delivery Team.

As a member of the Service Delivery team, you will provide essential, routine support for the research and Science Technology Platform (STP) laboratories based at the Crick.

Working closely with our floor and quadrant managers, you ll take ownership of the day-to-day maintenance of one of our bustling science floors, with opportunities to support other areas across the institute. Your responsibilities will include managing stock, coordinating the removal of laboratory waste, and helping maintain the highest standards of lab organisation. You ll also play an important role in handling hazardous materials and assisting with chemical inventory and tracking.

This is a highly collaborative position and you ll be part of a dedicated team of Laboratory Operations Assistants and will regularly interact with researchers, operational staff, and internal service partners. Strong communication and a proactive mindset will help you thrive in this dynamic environment.

If you re interested in developing a career in laboratory operations, this role offers an excellent pathway. You ll gain hands-on experience in a world-leading research institute, with the opportunity to grow into more technical operational positions over time.

What you will be doing

As a Laboratory Operations Assistant at the Crick, you will be responsible for:

• Maintaining the organisation and cleanliness of the laboratory areas including the removal of waste.
• Assisting with, or appropriately signposting, general and laboratory queries from Science and other stakeholders, using a variety of communications media (email, Slack etc) to ensure prompt resolution of issues, queries and challenges.
• Stock management of laboratory supplies; including stock checking, updating the online/ electronic stock control book, receiving deliveries and assisting with restocking the store areas. Upholding the chain of custody from the logistics team to the researchers, ensuring cold storage items are stored correctly.
• Manage hazardous materials safely and according to protocols, including preparing hazardous waste for safe disposal.
• Support communal scientific equipment upkeep.

About you

You will bring:

• Minimum of Mathematics, science and English GCSE and/or experience gained in a relevant technical or service provision role
• Basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office.
• Able to accurately follow work instructions, record information and carry out tasks in a diligent manner.
• A proven ability to work well with a team
• Self-motivated with a flexible approach and a keen eye for detail. Able to work with minimal supervision using own initiative.

• A good communicator, able to deal confidently and diplomatically with a wide range of people at all levels.

• Ability to respond proactively to contacts in immediate area to ensure provision of service to the laboratories. Able to escalate issues as necessary to Quadrant Manager.
• As there is some heavy work involved and manual handling, candidates should be capable of daily porterage duties. The role requires walking around a large facility covering several floors.

Minimum criteria

About Working at the Crick

Our values

Everyone who works at the Crick has a valuable role to play in advancing the Crick s mission and shaping our culture!

• We are bold. We make space for creative, dynamic and imaginative ideas and approaches. We re not afraid to do things differently.

• We are open. We re highly collaborative and interactive, and make sure our activities are visible to the outside world.

• We are collegial. We show respect for one another, work cooperatively and support the wider community.

At the Francis Crick Institute, we believe that diversity and inclusion are essential to driving innovation and scientific discovery. We are committed to creating a workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered to succeed, regardless of their background, identity, or personal circumstances. We actively encourage applications from individuals of all genders, ethnicities, abilities, and experiences.

We are a Disability Confident: Committed employer and want to ensure that everyone can apply and be part of our recruitment processes and so we'll make reasonable adjustments if you need them - just let us know when you apply. If you need assistance with applying (i.e., would like to apply by phone or post) please contact us via our website.

What will you receive?

At the Francis Crick Institute, we value our team members and are proud to offer an extensive range of benefits to support their well-being and development:

• Generous Leave: 28 days of annual leave, plus three additional days over Christmas and bank holidays.

• Pension Scheme: Defined contribution pension with employer contributions of up to 16%.

• Health & Well-being:

• 24/7 GP consultation services.

• Occupational health services and mental health support programs.

• Eye care vouchers and discounted healthcare plans.

• Work-Life Balance:

• Back-up care for dependents.

• Childcare support allowance.

• Annual leave purchase options.
• Crick Networks offering diverse groups support, community and inclusive social events.

• Perks:

• Discounted gym memberships, bike-to-work scheme, and shopping discounts.

• Subsidised on-site restaurant and social spaces for team interaction.

Please note you must meet the essential criteria listed within the Role Profile, to have your application reviewed.

We reserve the right to withdraw this advert at any given time due to the number of applications received.