Research Laboratory Technician (Part Time, Fixed Term) Part-time

Research Technician Position

An 80% FTE Research Technician position is available in the Social Fluids Laboratory, led by Dr Adria LeBoeuf, in the Department of Zoology at the University of Cambridge. This position is part of a BBSRC-funded project investigating metabolic cooperation between bodies. The project examines how organisms mobilise and package their own resources for transfer to others, using ants as a model system.

The successful applicant will support the lab's research through a combination of ant colony husbandry, administrative and molecular biology support. Key responsibilities include maintaining ant colonies, assisting with molecular biology experiments, and ensuring the lab is well-supplied with consumables. The technician will also maintain accurate documentation, prepare and update risk assessments, help train new lab members, and liaise with other research groups and departmental technical staff.

Applicants should hold a qualification equivalent to an HND/HNC, a level 4/5 vocational qualification, or possess an equivalent level of practical experience. They must have practical experience in laboratory technician or biological scientific research work, including insect husbandry and maintaining accurate records and documentation. Essential skills include excellent organisational and coordination abilities, a proactive approach with the ability to anticipate needs, strong communication skills, and the capacity to work effectively both independently and as part of a team. Candidates should be reliable and conscientious in performing repetitive tasks, able to follow standard operating procedures accurately, and proficient with basic computer tasks such as data entry and inventory management. An understanding of laboratory health and safety and experience with risk assessment procedures are essential. Desirable skills include experience with basic molecular biology techniques, knowledge of insect biology and behaviour, and the ability to train or demonstrate techniques to others. Occasional weekend work is also required.

The successful candidate will join a supportive, team-oriented research environment that values creativity, interdisciplinarity, curiosity, collaboration, open science, and inclusiveness. The Social Fluids Lab offers opportunities to contribute to cutting-edge research on fundamental questions about evolution and resource allocation. There may be opportunities to participate in international fieldwork, though this is not required.

The role will be based on site in the Department of Zoology. Work cannot be undertaken remotely.

Interview date: Interviews are expected to take place in Cambridge during the week commencing Monday, 23 March 2026 (subject to change) and may be conducted remotely under exceptional circumstances.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available for up to 48 months.

Once an offer of employment has been accepted, the successful candidate will be required to undergo a health assessment.

Applications are welcome from internal candidates who would like to apply for the role on the basis of a secondment from their current role in the University.

Flexible working requests will be considered.

We particularly welcome applications from candidates from a BME background for this vacancy as they are currently under-represented at this level in our Department.