This is a 12 month fixed term contract positon. Based at Alderley Park, Medicines Discovery Catapult is a national Life Sciences service dedicated to turning drug discovery into commercial breakthroughs. We accelerate the development of science, and where there are areas of unmet patient need, we stimulate innovation. By transforming drug discovery, we can improve patient lives, increase the impact of the UK Life Sciences sector, and create a healthier society and economy. Our interventions work. Since we started, we have helped over 300 companies raise over £1bn of R&D investment. We seek passionate individuals who are eager to collaborate, innovate, and make a tangible difference in the field of drug discovery. Together, we can unlock new therapies, enhance patient outcomes, and ensure that the UK remains at the forefront of life sciences innovation. If you are ready to make an impact, we invite you to be part of our journey. The values of the Catapult are: Excellence – we continually strive to deliver the best solutions for our partners and for each other. In everything we do, we instil confidence. Integrity – Our strong commitment to what we do and why we are here drives us to do the right thing for our partners and each other. Community – We’re a strong team, we work well together, and we respect each other. Innovation - We’re driven by the need to make a difference. We constantly look for ways to drive change in our sector and how we work. Role purpose Joining the H&S and Facilities Team at MDC, the role of Senior Lab Technician is the provision of support in the day-to-day running of the of the laboratory, supporting scientists in a research laboratory environment. This role would suit an organised self-starter as there will be opportunity to provide input into the development of new procedures to ensure the smooth running of a research laboratory. Main duties and responsibilities: Contribute to H&S compliance with the completion of regular checks on equipment subject to statutory inspection (eg. Fume cupboards). Carry out daily, weekly & monthly laboratory tasks to generate and maintain quality/safety records. Maintain all lab equipment in a safe working order and take all necessary steps to ensure it is fit for purpose, including arranging servicing. Coordinating the maintenance and servicing of laboratory equipment in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and responding to system monitoring alarms. Assist staff with the operation and upkeep of laboratory equipment and provide training. Regular communication with lab users around issues and troubleshooting. Maintain the chemical inventory and provide support in the creation of COSHH assessments (supervised by H&S manager). Storage and consumables management - develop stock lists of regularly ordered items, predicting future needs for regular stock items. Support Facilities manager with asset control and record keeping. Host visiting engineers in the labs, conducting a H&S induction, and providing support for the duration of the visit. Assist the MDC Facilities Manager with lab inspections. Maintain relationships with key industry reps – e.g., sales reps. Providing technical supervision of the laboratory technician and be the main point of contact for day-to-day tasks. Use other subsidiary skills within the limits of technical competence and within the expectations of the role. Work effectively to utilise the resources available to ensure operational and cost efficiency. Undertake training in all aspects of the work, taking responsibility for keeping up-to-date in the technical skills for the post. Essential qualifications and experience: Qualification at BTEC/HNC/HND/NVQ level in a relevant biological science subject or A levels or equivalent level in a scientific discipline along with substantial laboratory experience (2 years). Knowledge and experience of upkeep of basic lab equipment, including water baths, incubators, and centrifuges and able to provide training to new users. Clear ability and interest in learning and gaining new skills; willing to undertake any training as required by the role. Demonstrable knowledge of compliance with Health and Safety Regulations, Biological Safety and relevant risk and COSHH assessments appropriate in a laboratory environment. Excellent organisational skills with the ability to prioritise a variety of work activities in a busy environment. Demonstrates numeracy, analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to identify and resolve issues effectively. The ability to work successfully both as part of a team as well as individually. Demonstrates an ability to be flexible and provide support for colleagues. Able to follow instructions with minimal supervision, and a willingness to ask for help when required. Excellent organisational and communication skills. Show initiative and judgement to solve problems. Excellent time management skills and organisational abilities. Meticulous record-keeping skills and attention to detail. Ability to adapt work schedule to encompass any urgent or unanticipated needs arising. Ability to work to deadlines and prioritise own workloads in order to meet these deadlines. Carry out COSSH and risk assessments as necessary. Highly organised and effective communicator (both verbal and written) with good customer service skills. Ability to adapt work schedule to encompass any urgent or unanticipated needs arising. IT proficiency. Enthusiastic and proactive, able to bring new ideas and be open and responsive to change. Desirable qualifications and experience: Science degree (B.Sc. biology or similar). Experience of laboratory work in a research environment. Experience of any techniques relevant to the role (e.g. molecular biology techniques, microscopy, cell biology techniques). Previous experience of working in a research laboratory setting is desirable. Willing to develop new skills and attend training courses. Hold or willing to work towards professional accreditation such as R Sci or equivalent. IOSH managing safely certification or willing to gain. Closing date: Monday 10th February 2025 Please note the closing date for applications may be brought forward if a high volume of applications are received.