Job Description:

Job Title: Laboratory Research Scientist

Location: Waltham, Leicestershire

Job Type: Full-time

Join our dynamic and growing team as a Laboratory Research Scientist, where you'll play a vital role at the forefront of next-generation sequencing, metagenomics and microbiome research. This is a unique opportunity to contribute to both routine, high-throughput pipelines and non-routine, innovative scientific projects.

If you’re passionate about scientific discovery, driven by challenge and ready to stretch your capabilities in a collaborative, high-impact environment – we want to hear from you.

Key Responsibilities:

Lead and execute molecular biology experiments, with a strong focus on metagenomics and microbiome research.

Operate across both routine pipelines and more traditional, non-routine project work.

Build and optimise laboratory capabilities, develop and validate new test methods and assays.

Take operational ownership of lab areas, contributing to lab efficiency and capability expansion.

Generate, analyse and interpret high-quality experimental data for internal and external stakeholders.

Maintain accurate lab records using LIMS and electronic lab notebooks.

Mentor and support colleagues, sharing expertise in molecular techniques and scientific problem-solving.

Collaborate across multidisciplinary teams to share findings and drive continuous improvement.

What You’ll Need:

Required: BSc in Biochemistry, Biology, Molecular Biology or related discipline.

Required: PhD in Molecular Biology, Molecular Microbiology or equivalent industry experience.

Solid experience in molecular biology techniques, including next-generation sequencing (Illumina NextSeq experience a plus).

Hands-on experience in microbiome and metagenomics research, including sample processing at scale.

Demonstrated ability to adapt to complex, evolving challenges and take ownership of lab spaces or programmes.

Strong analytical and troubleshooting skills with a keen attention to detail.

Familiarity with LIMS and electronic lab notebooks.

Drive, discipline and a growth mindset to take on a stretching and rewarding role.

Why Join Us?

Be part of a cutting-edge research environment tackling some of today’s most exciting scientific challenges.

Enjoy a unique balance of routine operational excellence and non-routine scientific exploration.

Opportunity to lead, innovate and shape the future of molecular microbiology and metagenomics.

Competitive salary, great benefits and the chance to work with an inspiring and supportive team.

Apply today and take the next step in your scientific career – where curiosity, capability and collaboration come together to drive real-world impact.

Apply today and shape the future of molecular biology research!

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Mars is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. If you need assistance or an accommodation during the application process because of a disability, it is available upon request. The company is pleased to provide such assistance, and no applicant will be penalized as a result of such a request.