Biology Research Assistant jobs

About Us

Pretoria Energy is a growing renewable energy company based near Cambridge. We work on a range of projects focused on sustainable energy, process improvement, and developing new technologies for the future.

We're looking for a hands-on and enthusiastic R&D Laboratory Technician to join our team. This is a varied role that combines laboratory work with involvement in research and development projects. Around half of your time will be spent supporting day-to-day laboratory activities, while the other half will be working alongside the Technical Director on trials, investigations, and new development projects.

The Role

With the emphasis on R&D, this is a great opportunity for someone who enjoys practical scientific work and wants to be involved in developing new ideas and technologies.

You'll work across different areas of the business, helping with testing, data collection, product and process development, and technical projects.

Main Responsibilities:

Laboratory Activities

• Carry out routine sampling and testing.
• Record and analyse results.
• Support quality control activities.
• Help monitor process performance and identify any unusual trends.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure it is operating correctly.
• Keep laboratory supplies stocked and organised.
• Ensure the laboratory is clean, safe, and well maintained.
• Produce reports and communicate results to colleagues.

Research & Development Activities

• Assist the Technical Director with research and development projects.
• Help plan and carry out trials and experiments.
• Collect, organise, and analyse project data.
• Support the development of new products, technologies, and processes.
• Research new ideas and technical solutions.
• Prepare reports and presentations for ongoing projects.
• Help identify opportunities for improving performance, efficiency, and sustainability.
• Participate in site trials and testing activities.
• Contribute ideas and suggestions for future developments.

What We're Looking For:

Essential

• Scientific qualification and relevant experience in research and development (R & D)
• Experience working in a laboratory, testing, manufacturing, or technical environment.
• Strong attention to detail.
• Good organisational and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Good written and verbal communication skills.
• Comfortable using Microsoft Office and working with data.
• Full UK driving licence.

Desirable

• Ideally, an interest and experience in anaerobic digestion
• Experience in renewable energy, environmental, agricultural, food, or process industries.
• Previous involvement in research or development projects.
• Experience analysing technical data and producing reports.

Personal Qualities

• Curious and interested in how things work.
• Practical and hands-on.
• Motivated to learn and take on new challenges.
• Able to manage a variety of tasks and projects.
• Positive attitude and willing to contribute across the business.
• Comfortable working both indoors and outdoors when required.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary depending on experience.
• Opportunity to work directly with the Technical Director on exciting development projects.
• Training and career development opportunities.
• Pension scheme.
• Holiday entitlement plus Bank Holidays.
• A varied role within a growing and innovative business.

This position would suit someone looking for a balance of practical laboratory work and involvement in new projects, with the opportunity to play an active role in the future growth and development of the business.

Application question(s):

• Do you live within 60 minutes of Chittering, CB25 9PZ?

Education:

• Bachelor's (preferred)

Experience:

• Research & development: 2 years (preferred)

Licence/Certification:

• Driving Licence (required)

Work authorisation:

• United Kingdom (required)

Work Location: In person