Job Description

Location

: On-site working at our state of the art labs in Bristol, UK.

Start Date

: July 2025.

Eligibility

: Candidates must be eligible to work in the UK to apply for this role.

Who We Are

GenomeKey is a Bristol based biotech startup developing a next-generation diagnostic device for bloodstream infections, using machine learning and DNA sequencing.

Key Responsibilities

We're seeking a proactive and detail-focused

Microbiology Lab Technician

to support the critical first steps in our workflow. You will be the first point of contact for bacterial isolates received at our Bristol site, handling and preparing them for downstream sequencing.

This is a hands-on lab-based role involving sample management, microbiological techniques, and close interaction with our automated lab systems. You'll follow SOPs to the letter, ensure lab readiness, and contribute to smooth daily operations in a fast-paced, high-standards environment.

Receive and log clinical bacterial isolates, and track all samples using LIMS, maintaining complete chain-of-custody records. Routinely manipulate bacteria using aseptic technique. Load prepared samples, reagents, and consumables into liquid handling robots. Monitor robot runs, respond to system prompts or errors, and conduct routine maintenance and cleaning. Prepare and sterilise both solid and liquid media; accurately measure reagents and document preparation details (e.g., lot numbers, batch records). Carry out quality control checks on media and robotic setup. Maintain high standards of cleanliness, organisation, and biosafety including disposing of lab waste, clean work areas, and uphold lab hygiene standards. Record all lab activities--digitally and in lab notebooks--to support traceability and audit readiness. Support automation engineers and scientists to support sample throughput. Identify and flag issues such as contamination, growth anomalies, or equipment faults promptly.

Who You Are

We're looking for someone with a proactive mindset, keen attention to detail, and a solid grounding in microbiological lab techniques. You'll be dependable, meticulous, and comfortable working in a fast-moving environment.

Qualifications & Experience

We are open to varied backgrounds for this role but expect candidates to meet most of the following skills and experiences:

Essential:

Demonstrable experience working in a microbiology or molecular biology lab. Proficiency in aseptic technique and bacterial culture handling. Familiarity with subculturing, colony picking, and agar plating. Strong attention to detail and sample traceability. Experience working with tracking systems (digital or manual). Comfortable working independently and adhering to strict SOPs. Excellent communication skills both written and verbal.

Desirable:

Undergraduate degree in Biology, or related field. Familiarity with bacterial culturing conditions and incubation. Experience using barcode scanners or LIMS systems. Previous experience in a high-throughput lab (e.g., Lighthouse Labs).

Our Hiring Process

Intro call (15 minutes) Take-home task Role-fit interview (45 minutes) Final stage (45 minutes)
GenomeKey is an equal opportunities employer. We welcome applicants from all backgrounds and experiences.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Pay: 25,000.00 per year

Work Location: In person