UK Biobank
Lab Sample Assistant
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Application Deadline: 16 August 2026
Department: Lab
Location: Cheadle
Compensation: £25,000 / year
Description
Help move one of the world's largest biological sample collections.
Every breakthrough made using UK Biobank's data begins with something incredibly important: the biological samples that researchers rely on to advance our understanding of disease, prevention, and treatment.
We're looking for Laboratory Sample Assistants to join us on a 6 Month Fixed-Term Contract, supporting one of the largest biological sample relocation projects in the world.
Working within our busy laboratory environment, you'll help manage the movement, storage, and preparation of millions of biological samples as we continue to develop our state-of-the-art laboratory facilities. Every sample you handle has the potential to contribute to life-changing medical research, making accuracy, teamwork, and attention to detail at the heart of everything you do.
If you're looking for a hands-on laboratory role where your work has genuine purpose and you'll be part of a major scientific project, we'd love to hear from you.
Can you do it?
As a Laboratory Sample Assistant, you'll support the safe handling and movement of biological samples throughout their lifecycle, ensuring they remain protected, traceable, and available for researchers around the world.
Working as part of a high-performing laboratory team, you'll be responsible for:
- Retrieving samples from automated storage systems, freezers, and liquid nitrogen tanks.
- Carrying out quality control checks.
- Preparing and shipping biological samples to support research activities.
- Supporting the transfer of samples into new storage locations as part of one of the largest laboratory relocation projects of its kind.
Alongside sample handling, you'll help maintain a safe, organised laboratory environment, supporting equipment maintenance, following Good Laboratory Practice, and contributing ideas that improve the way we work.
Whether you're starting your laboratory career or already have experience working within a scientific environment, this is an excellent opportunity to develop your skills while supporting research that has a global impact.
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You will be responsible for:
- Handling biological samples throughout the sample lifecycle, ensuring they are managed safely, accurately, and in accordance with laboratory procedures.
- Picking samples from automated storage systems, freezers, and liquid nitrogen (LN2) tanks.
- Performing quality control checks to maintain sample integrity and traceability.
- Preparing and shipping biological samples to support research activities.
- Retrieving biological samples manually from cold storage, including working within a -20°C environment.
- Supporting a safe and efficient laboratory environment by maintaining high standards of housekeeping and Good Laboratory Practice.
- Undertaking routine laboratory equipment maintenance activities.
- Identifying opportunities for process improvements and contributing to continuous improvement initiatives.
Is this 'you'?
To be successful, you will have:
- GCSE and A-Level in Biology or Chemistry (or equivalent).
- Experience of working to Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) or equivalent documented processes.
- Proven ability to communicate effectively as part of a team.
- Experience using Microsoft Office applications, including Word and Excel.
- Willingness and ability to work in a -20°C environment.
- Excellent attention to detail.
- A proactive approach with a willingness to learn and contribute to continuous improvement.
This is a 6 Month Fixed-Term Contract.
Working hours are 35 hours per week, working 5 days out of 7 on a rotating rota.
This role is fully onsite at Spectrum Way, Greater Manchester, supporting a busy laboratory operation.
Our passion for diversity and equality
Creating a work environment for all employees that is welcoming, respectful, engaging, and enriched with opportunities for personal and professional development.
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We actively welcome applications from people with disabilities, long-term health conditions, neuro-divergent candidates, and those with diverse thinking styles. We are committed to making reasonable adjustments throughout our recruitment process and in the workplace so that everyone can perform at their best. If you require any adjustments during the recruitment process, please contact Tommy Wilson Jobs@ukbiobank.ac.uk so we can support you.
Your Wellbeing Matters to Us
Our wellbeing score on Indeed is rated as 77% (High), reflecting how people experience working here day-to-day. Colleagues often highlight a strong sense of purpose, supportive team culture, and the opportunity to grow.
There’s a real focus on learning, flexibility, and feeling valued whether that’s developing new skills, contributing ideas, or building a career within Laboratory Operations.
- 14.5% employer contribution to the USS Pension Scheme
- Healthcare Cash Plan to help cover everyday healthcare costs
- 26 days' annual leave, plus bank holidays, increasing to 30 days with length of service
- Buy up to 5 additional days' annual leave through our Holiday Buy Scheme
- A paid day off for your birthday
- Enhanced maternity, paternity, adoption, and shared parental pay
- Up to 6 months' full sick pay
- Subsidised lunch when working on site
- Life Assurance
- Cycle to Work Scheme
- Season Ticket Loan
- Training and development opportunities, including a £500 annual personal development allowance
- Paid professional subscriptions, where applicable
- Employee Discounts Portal
- Wellbeing support, including an Employee Assistance Programme
- Free annual flu vaccination and Hepatitis B vaccination, where applicable
- An active social committee with regular social events
- Free on-site parking*
- Payroll Giving (Give As You Earn)
*Available at applicable locations.
The job advert closing date may change, so early applications are encouraged.
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