Microbiological Research Technician

Our client in Cardiff, a specialist Microbiological Testing and Consultancy company, is working with us on an exclusive basis to recruit a motivated and enthusiastic Microbiological Research Technician to join their team on a permanent basis.

This is an exciting opportunity to support their Research Scientist in the development of new products and services within their newly created, state-of-the-art Research Facility at their Head Office in Cardiff.

Please note: This is a site-based role and applicants must currently live within a reasonable commuting distance of Cardiff. Relocation candidates or applicants who do not currently reside locally will not be considered.

You will play an important role in supporting laboratory-based research and development activities. You will work closely with an experienced team, contributing to investigations, experimental work, and the ongoing development of innovative microbiological solutions.

Key Responsibilities

* Conduct microbiological and scientific investigations to support the R&D programme.
* Accurately record experimental data in laboratory notebooks and electronic systems.
* Analyse and interpret data using appropriate software and statistical methods.
* Assist in preparing technical reports and documenting findings.
* Plan and organise laboratory work effectively, managing time and resources efficiently.
* Maintain stocks of laboratory consumables, chemicals, and microbiological media.
* Prepare culture media, reagents, and sterile materials, and conduct quality control checks.
* Operate and monitor laboratory equipment following documented procedures.
* Complete documentation and maintain records in line with the QMS.
* Help maintain the R&D laboratory suite to a high standard.
* Carry out environmental monitoring of the R&D suite.
* General laboratory cleaning and disinfection.
* Preparation and disposal of laboratory waste.

About You

We are looking for someone with a genuine passion for microbiology and scientific research, who enjoys working both independently and collaboratively within a close-knit team environment.

Essential Skills & Experience

* Must currently reside within a reasonable commuting distance of Cardiff and be able to attend the laboratory on a full-time basis.
* Degree-level qualification in Biological Science (BSc, HND or equivalent).
* Previous hands-on experience working within a commercial, industrial, clinical, environmental, food, pharmaceutical, testing, or other professional laboratory environment.
* Practical microbiology laboratory experience involving the preparation, handling, processing, testing, analysis, or investigation of samples as part of a paid employment role.
* Experience working in a research or testing laboratory environment.
* Good understanding of standard microbiological analytical methods.
* Experience with aseptic technique, culture preparation, serial dilution, and viable counting.
* Understanding of QA/QC principles.
* Strong organisational and time management skills.
* Excellent attention to detail and accuracy in recording results.
* Good communication skills, both written and verbal.
* Strong numeracy and IT skills.
* Ability to work proactively, use initiative, and solve problems effectively.

Important Requirement

Candidates must have gained practical laboratory experience within a professional working environment. Experience gained solely through university laboratory classes, undergraduate projects, dissertations, MSc research projects, or academic study will not be considered sufficient for this role. Applicants must be able to demonstrate previous workplace experience of handling, testing, processing, analysing, or investigating samples within a laboratory setting.

Desirable

* MSc or MRes in Biological Science.
* Experience with molecular microbiology techniques such as DNA extraction, PCR, and sequencing.
* Bioinformatics experience.

Salary & Benefits

* Starting salary of £30,000 with strong opportunities for salary progression through continued development and growth.
* 35-hour working week (Monday to Friday, 9:00am - 5:00pm).
* Modern, state-of-the-art laboratory and research facilities.
* Generous annual bonus scheme and enhanced pension.
* 24 days annual leave plus bank holidays.
* Private Healthcare provided through BUPA.
* Annual BUPA health check.
* Ongoing training, development, and career progression opportunities.
* Regular staff social events and team activities.

If you are looking to develop your career within a forward-thinking scientific environment and want to contribute to meaningful research and innovation, we would love to hear from you.