National Oceanography Centre
Microbiology Technician
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Location
Southampton
Function
Digital Science
Group
Scientific and Technical Specialists
Duration
Permanent
Salary
£36,382
Closing Date
07/08/2026
Job Reference
NOC12256
Documents
Job description and person specification (PDF, 131.05kb)
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Microbiology Technician
National Oceanography Centre, Southampton
Permanent
Full time (37 hours per week)
£36,382
Who are we?
We are the National Oceanography Centre (NOC) - the UK’s leading institution for integrated coastal and deep ocean research. Through our ground-breaking research, collaboration, and game-changing innovation we work to gain a deeper understanding of our ocean, helping every living thing on our planet flourish.
We are made up of a dynamic and vibrant community focused on solving challenging long-term marine science problems, underpinning international and UK public policy, business and societal outcomes.
The ocean has the potential to provide the solutions to so many of the social, economic and environmental challenges we face worldwide. To truly harness the value of the ocean, we put ocean research, science and discovery at the heart of our culture.
Join us in shaping the future of oceanographic research and contribute your unique perspective to our organisation.
About The Role
The Scientific & Technical Specialist Group work with scientists within the NOC, as well as nationally and internationally, to develop and provide world class analytical services and methodologies, managing internationally important deep-sea sample collections and facilities, and managing all aspects of science project coordination.
We are seeking a motivated and enthusiastic Entry-Level Microbiology Technician to support research activities within the biology labs at the National Oceanography Centre. This is an excellent opportunity for a recent graduate or candidate with relevant laboratory experience who is looking to develop practical skills in microbiology, microscopy, molecular biology and chemical imaging, within an academic research environment.
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The successful candidate will assist with microscopy and chemical imaging work, the maintenance of microbial cultures, preparation of laboratory materials, preparation for and participation in oceanographic expeditions.
About You
You will be a motivated individual with an undergraduate degree in Microbiology, Biological Sciences or a related discipline, or equivalent relevant experience. You will have some practical laboratory experience in microbiological techniques, including microscopy and/or chemical image acquisition and image/data analysis.
You will be motivated to participate in oceanographic expeditions. You will demonstrate strong attention to detail, excellent organisational skills, and a commitment to maintaining high standards of laboratory safety, quality, and compliance. You will be able to work as part of a multidisciplinary team and communicate clearly with academic staff, researchers, students, and external stakeholders.
A proactive approach to problem-solving, a willingness to support research activities, and an enthusiasm for contributing to a collaborative environment are essential.
Why NOC?
We Offer a Generous Set Of Benefits, Including
- 30 days contractual annual leave, plus 3.5 extra closure days and bank holidays
- a 10% employer contribution pension scheme (with a 15% NI saving on employee contributions made above 5%, if in the salary sacrifice scheme)
- Death in Service (3 times annual salary) provided by Aviva from day one of employment, plus access to a range of other Aviva wellbeing services
- financial support for relocation
- a salary sacrifice scheme for electric / hybrid vehicles (qualifying period applies)
- access to our Employee Assistance Programme, offering free and confidential support on mental, physical, emotional, health and financial issues
- access to a flexible benefits portal offering online discounts, cashback and eGift cards
- a Cycle2Work scheme allowing employees to acquire bikes and accessories
- a great working environment with a number of social events, including summer and Christmas celebrations
- we are proud to be a Living Wage Employer
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Location
This position will be based in Southampton. The centre is well connected by public transport and has ample cycle parking in addition to free onsite car-parking with over 40 EV charging points.
Please note that due to the lab-based nature of the position the successful candidate will be required to work on site full time (Monday to Friday).
Submitting an application
Please click ‘Apply for this job’ and submit an up-to-date CV and cover letter highlighting your relevant experience and why you are interested in the position. Applications submitted without a cover letter may not be considered. If you are unable to apply online, please contact the NOC recruitment team at careers@noc.ac.uk / 07955 851648.
When submitting your application you will be asked the following:
‘In no more than 300 words please detail your experience of microscopy and/or imaging techniques.’
Before submitting your application please ensure you have reviewed the attached job description and person specification.
We are committed to fostering diversity and inclusion in our workplace. We actively encourage qualified candidates from all backgrounds to apply for this position, as we strive to create a supportive and equitable environment where all voices are valued and heard.
Those seeking employment at NOC are considered solely on their qualifications, skills and experience, without regard to gender, gender identity, age, race, religion, disability, sex, sexual orientation, relationship status, family status (including pregnancy / maternity leave) or any other protected characteristic.
There is a guaranteed interview scheme for candidates who meet the minimum criteria of the position and declare a disability.
Date advert posted: 14th July 2026.
Closing date: 7th August 2026. This vacancy may close earlier depending on the number of applicants.
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