The Advanced Sample Technician will be a key member of the Compound Management team within Bicycle Therapeutics’ Scientific Operations Department, playing an essential role in the operational success of our sample archiving and delivery services. This position is responsible for the precise and timely processing, management, and distribution of valuable research samples from both internal and external sources.
As our team evolves by integrating new technologies, this role will be instrumental in the transition towards automated workflows. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in laboratory procedures, exceptional attention to detail, an interest in automation, and a proactive mindset to help shape the future of our sample management capabilities ensuring our scientists have reliable access to the materials they need to discover and develop innovative treatments for patients.
Your Responsibilities
Sample Preparation
You will provide critical technician support for sample processing and preparation, which includes:
- Processing samples arriving from external CROs
- Performing quality control checks
- Uploading data to the LIMS database
- Storing materials in an automated compound management store
- Processing samples from internal synthesis pipelines
- Solubilizing solid peptides and preparing assay-ready samples using both automated liquid handlers and manual workflows
- Storing both assay ready samples and stock batches
- Actioning requests from scientists via a ticketing system
- Preparing custom sample aliquots for specific assays
- Preparing sample sets for shipment to external partners
- Liaising with the logistics team to prepare sample shipments in accordance with standard operating procedures and regulatory requirements
- Liaising directly with scientists to discuss their support requirements.
- Ensuring that laboratories meet all Health and Safety requirements by keeping workspaces clean and tidy, writing and maintaining Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and maintaining lab records to a high standard.
Inventory Management
You will ensure that both the physical inventory and LIMS records are accurate and well maintained by:
- Applying meticulous attention to detail to ensure all sample information is accurately recorded and updated in the LIMS database
- Conducting regular inventory reviews to manage the sample lifecycle, including the timely removal of expired stock
- Promptly investigating and resolving any identified discrepancies.
Continuous Improvement
You will ensure both yourself and the Compound Management team are exploring opportunities to further enable our R&I team, by
- Contributing to the implementation and operation of automated liquid handlers to improve sample processing workflows and enhance throughput.
- Proactively identifying opportunities for process improvements and contributing to a culture of operational excellence by exploring how new automation or AI tools could benefit the team.
- Taking a proactive approach to your own professional and career development, ensuring compliance with all necessary training.
- When required, ensure the tasks of the wider team are covered during absences to maintain operational continuity.
Knowledge & Expertise
- Core Expertise: You apply developing knowledge of sample management principles to complete a broad range of routine tasks independently and are building practical experience in the role.
- Data / Insight: You perform well-defined analysis of sample data, and can identify trends and draw straightforward conclusions with guidance.
- Knowledge Sharing: You share ideas and information effectively with colleagues and project leaders, contributing to team discussions and building strong working relationships.
Job Complexity:
- Task / Project Delivery: You handle routine assignments of limited scope using established practices and can apply basic analysis to resolve straightforward issues with some guidance.
- Problem-Solving: You resolve routine problems by applying established procedures and standard analytical approaches, exercising judgment to select known solutions.
- Strategic Impact: Your reliable contributions to team activities and individual assignments, along with your shared observations, directly support team decisions.
Independence:
- Autonomy: You operate under general supervision, completing routine work with minimal oversight after initial training and receiving guidance on new or complex assignments.
- Decision Making: You can determine the methods for routine assignments and make straightforward decisions within established procedures, escalating issues when necessary.
- Leadership / Mentorship: You may informally guide or assist colleagues within the team, sharing your knowledge to help others complete tasks effectively.
Qualifications
- Experience working in a laboratory environment, preferably in a sample management, compound management, or biobanking role.
- Practical experience with aseptic techniques and the handling of biological or chemical samples (e.g., peptides, proteins).
- Experience with or an interest in learning to operate laboratory automation (e.g., liquid handlers) is highly desirable.
- Familiarity with laboratory information management systems (LIMS) and electronic lab notebooks (ELN).
- Proficient in using Microsoft Excel for data handling and scheduling.
- Strong attention to detail and a commitment to producing high-quality, accurate work.
- Excellent organisational and time management skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and requests.
- A collaborative team player with good communication skills.
- A proactive and positive attitude with a forward-thinking mindset and a curiosity for how new technologies, including AI, can improve laboratory operations.
- Pension (10% employer contribution)
- Private Medical Insurance (PMI) (including optical and dental cover)
- Health Cash Plan
- Group Life Assurance (4x basic salary)
- Group Income Protection
- Employee Assistance Program (EAP)
- Cycle to Work scheme
- Access to subsidised gym membership
- Time off (28 days annual leave in addition to bank holidays & the option to buy up to 5 additional days annually)
- Competitive reward including annual company bonus
- Employee recognition schemes
- Enhanced parental leave policies
- Flexible working environment
- State-of-the-art campus environment with on campus restaurant and Montessori nursery
- Eligibility for an option grant to subscribe to shares in Bicycle Therapeutics plc.
Bicycle Therapeutics is committed to building a diverse workforce that is representative of the communities we serve. We recognize that diverse and inclusive teams build a stronger and more innovative company. Therefore, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment, and we do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, colour, gender (including gender reassignment), sexual orientation, age, disability status, marital status, or veteran status.
Bicycle Therapeutics is committed to building a diverse workforce that is representative of the communities we serve. We recognize that diverse and inclusive teams build a stronger and more innovative company. Therefore, all qualified applicants will be considered for employment, and we do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, colour, gender, sexual orientation, age, disability status, marital status, or veteran status.