Research Laboratory Technician; Part Time

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.

• Support the lab’s research through ant colony husbandry, administrative and molecular biology support.
• Maintain ant colonies, assist with molecular biology experiments, and ensure the lab is well‑supplied with consumables.
• Maintain accurate documentation, prepare and update risk assessments, help train new lab members, and liaise with other research groups and departmental technical staff.

• Hold a qualification equivalent to an HND/HNC, a level 4/5 vocational qualification, or possess an equivalent level of practical experience.
• 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.
• 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.
• 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 required.

• Supportive, team‑oriented research environment that values creativity, interdisciplinarity, curiosity, collaboration, open science, and inclusivity.
• Opportunities to contribute to cutting‑edge research on fundamental questions about evolution and resource allocation; may include international fieldwork.
• Role based on‑site in the Department of Zoology; remote work not possible.
• Fixed‑term funds available for up to 48 months.
• Health assessment required after offer acceptance.
• Interview expected during week commencing Monday 23 March 2026 (subject to change); may be conducted remotely under exceptional circumstances.
• Flexible working requests will be considered.
• Applications from internal candidates willing to second from current role welcome.

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.

Informal enquiries are welcome and should be directed to:
Dr Adria LeBoeuf [].

If you have any queries regarding the application process, please contact Paulina Lasocka [email: ].

Please quote reference PF48789 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.