Sample Management Technician (Fixed Term)

The MRC Epidemiology Unit is seeking to appoint a Sample Management Technician.

This position will be based in the Unit's Sample Management Team, a sub-section of the Laboratory Team. The primary role of this post is to perform sample auditing, re-organising, re-arraying, re-labelling and data import (to spreadsheets and LIMS) to be done at the Unit's Sample Storage Facility at Cambridge Research Park (Waterbeach). Here samples are stored in ultra-low temperature freezers and liquid nitrogen tanks. It will be the responsibility of the post holder to assist in the storage and retrieval of samples from these vessels. The work will support the ongoing sample collection phase of the Fenland Study along with the development of a new -80°C sample storage system. There is also a requirement to transport frozen biological samples between sites using the Unit`s van. Further responsibilities would include reviewing of SOPs and risk assessments, occasional weekend and evening work, being on the on-call rota for freezer alarms and participating in the general running of the sample storage facility.

Alongside a competitive salary, University staff are eligible for a comprehensive package of benefits and services include discounts on shopping, health care, financial services and public transport. We also offer defined benefits pension schemes and tax-efficient bicycle, car lease and charity-giving schemes.

The MRC Epidemiology Unit is a department within the University of Cambridge's School of Clinical Medicine and is situated within the Institute of Metabolic Science on the Cambridge Biomedical Campus. Its mission is to study the genetic, developmental and environmental factors that cause obesity, diabetes and related metabolic disorders and develop strategies for their prevention. The Unit benefits from a number of large-scale, cross programme epidemiological studies with detailed datasets allowing a wide range of research from genetics to public health. Highly experienced information teams and other specialist teams support the scientists in the delivery of their research aims.

The successful candidate must have an HNC or equivalent level qualification in a relevant subject, strong organisational skills, a good team spirit and experience of handling biological samples. Experience of sample data management using MS Excel / Access, or a LIMS would be an advantage.

A full UK driving license is required as the role will involve the use of the Unit van to transport research samples between sites. Access to a car is preferable as the post is located at the Cambridge Research Park which is most easily accessed by car. However, this is not essential as there are buses that visit the site and a new cycle path from Cambridge.

Please contact Steven Knighton (Steven.Knighton@mrc-epid.cam.ac.uk; 07766 178870) for informal enquiries.

Fixed-term: The funds for this post are available until 31 March 2026 in the first instance.

To apply online for this vacancy and to view further information about the role, please click on the Apply button above.

Please ensure that you outline how you match the criteria for the post and why you are applying for this role on the online Application form.

Please include details of your referees, including email address and phone number, one of which must be your most recent line manager.

The closing date for applications is: 1st September 2024

The interview date for the role is: Week commencing 16th September 2024

Please quote reference SJ42730 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.

The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.

The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.