Research Technician

About the role

The University of Leicester is seeking a Research Technician to join the Leicester Cancer Research Centre within the Division of Cancer Sciences. This fixed‑term, full‑time post (job share considered) is funded by Cancer Research UK and will support the delivery of key grant milestones for the multicentre phase 2/3 COLO‑PREVENT clinical trial, which recruits high‑risk patients through the NHS Bowel Cancer Screening Programme.

The study investigates whether repurposed drugs or dietary agents may help to prevent colorectal polyp development.

The post holder will be responsible for the coordination, verification, logging and storage of clinical samples received from up to 60 trial sites across England and Wales, ensuring full regulatory compliance at all times. Working closely with the Principal Investigator, Trial Manager and wider trial teams, the role will provide essential laboratory and sample‑related support, contribute to audit readiness, and assist with regulatory documentation, ethics submissions and reporting.

The role operates within a quality‑managed clinical research environment and requires excellent organisation, attention to detail and a strong commitment to good clinical and laboratory practice.

You will have a technical or scientific education to ONC or NVQ level 3, or equivalent experience within a clinical trial or research setting, and experience of working with human samples in a quality‑managed environment. You will demonstrate a sound understanding of regulatory requirements, including Good Clinical Practice, health and safety regulations and the governance associated with human tissue. Strong written and verbal communication skills, good IT skills and the ability to work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary research team are essential.

You will be highly organised, able to manage competing priorities and committed to maintaining high standards of accuracy and compliance. The University of Leicester encourages inclusive, inspiring and impactful work, and expects candidates to reflect these values while supporting the University’s commitment to equity, diversity, academic freedom and freedom of speech within the law. This role may involve work within NHS settings and is subject to the relevant research governance and DBS requirements.

Full time, or job share considered, fixed term contract until 30 November 2026. Applications for job share will be considered.

Competitive salary package, excellent pension scheme and generous annual leave allowance, along with opportunities to develop your career in a supportive and collaborative environment.