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Laboratory technicians support laboratory-based scientific investigations by undertaking a range of routine technical tasks and experiments.

Laboratory technicians are the backbone of a scientific research lab. Their work is almost entirely laboratory-based and technicians may work alone or as part of a team of scientific staff. They can work in most areas of science including forensics, health and manufacturing.

The area a laboratory technician works in will largely dictate the work they do. If they’re in a medical environment, they might be analysing body fluids or tissues, conducting blood tests and examining cells. If they work for a food and drink manufacturer, they might be testing food and drink samples to detect contamination or ensure quality.

Typical responsibilities of a lab technician include:

• conducting and supporting scientific investigations and experiments

• planning, setting up and undertaking controlled experiments and trials

• recording and analysing data

• demonstrating procedures

• collecting, preparing and/or testing samples

• maintaining, calibrating, cleaning and testing sterility of the equipment

• providing technical support

• presenting results to senior staff

• writing reports, reviews and summaries

• keeping up to date with relevant scientific and technical developments

• supervising staff

• carrying out risk assessments

• ordering and maintaining stock and resources

Qualifications and training required

Both university graduates and school leavers can become lab technicians. Graduates will need a degree in a relevant scientific subject such as biology, biochemistry, chemistry or physics. They will typically start off as a laboratory technician and work their way up to a more senior research and development role.

Key skills for laboratory technicians

• Independence

• Meticulous attention to detail

• Excellent written and oral communication skills

• Good teamworking skills

• Analytical skills

• Time management

Typical employers of laboratory technicians

• Environmental agencies

• Specialist research organisations or consultancies

• Universities

• Hospitals and clinics

• The Civil Service

• Water companies

• Pharmaceutical companies

• Chemical companies

• Food and drink companies