Support Officer

Healthcare Science Support Officer (Laboratory Assistant) – UK Health Security Agency (UK Based Applicants)

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is recruiting Healthcare Science Support Officers (Laboratory Assistants) to join its Microbiology team at Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge. This permanent opportunity offers excellent Civil Service benefits, flexible working options, and the chance to support vital laboratory services that contribute to patient care and public health.

Job Summary

If you’re looking to build or advance your laboratory career in the UK healthcare sector, this is an excellent opportunity to join UKHSA.

As a Healthcare Science Support Officer (Laboratory Assistant), you will provide laboratory support to scientific teams by processing patient samples and assisting with microbiology services that aid clinical diagnosis.

The laboratory operates a 24/7 service, and successful applicants will work a 37.5-hour rotating shift pattern.

Job Details

• Job Title: Healthcare Science Support Officer (Laboratory Assistant)
• Employer: UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA)
• Reference Number: 470395
• Location: Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge, England
• Salary: £27,335 – £28,442 per annum (pro rata)
• Job Grade: Administrative Officer (AO)
• Contract Type: Permanent
• Working Pattern: Full-time, Part-time, Flexible Working, Job Share
• Vacancies: 2
• Department: Microbiology Laboratory
• Application Deadline: 11:55 PM (UK Time), Tuesday, 14 July 2026

About the Role

Successful candidates will support microbiology laboratory operations by handling specimens, preparing samples and reagents, maintaining equipment, performing administrative duties, and assisting Biomedical Scientists with laboratory testing.

You may also rotate across different microbiology laboratory units and occasionally provide emergency cover across laboratories in the East of England.

Key Responsibilities

• Receive and process laboratory specimens.
• Prepare patient samples and laboratory reagents.
• Perform accurate data entry and clerical duties.
• Handle telephone enquiries and provide laboratory results.
• Support hospital wards, GPs and other healthcare providers.
• Monitor stock levels and prepare laboratory orders.
• Clean and disinfect laboratory equipment and work areas.
• Perform routine equipment maintenance.
• Carry out manual, semi-automated and automated laboratory tests.
• Safely dispose of patient samples and laboratory waste.
• Operate autoclaves and assist with waste management.
• Carry out portering duties and exchange gas cylinders.
• Follow all laboratory health and safety procedures.

Additional Duties

• Process microbiology specimens.
• Sub-culture laboratory samples.
• Clean and maintain laboratory equipment.
• Assist Biomedical Scientists with laboratory analysis.
• Operate automated laboratory systems.
• Participate in Quality Assurance (QA) and Quality Control (QC).
• Support UKAS accreditation activities.
• Assist with audits, research projects and clinical trials.
• Prepare bacteriological culture media.
• Work within Containment Level 2 and Level 3 laboratories.

Essential Requirements

Applicants should have:

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong computer and data entry skills.
• Good telephone communication skills.
• Ability to work effectively within a team.
• Good organisational and prioritisation skills.
• Ability to work independently.
• Strong problem-solving skills.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality.
• Good attendance and timekeeping.
• Flexible approach to work.
• Ability to follow written laboratory procedures and protocols.

Desirable Requirements

• Previous laboratory experience.
• Experience working within a healthcare environment.
• Previous employment experience.
• Evidence of ongoing training and professional development.

Salary and Benefits

Successful applicants will receive:

• £27,335–£28,442 annual salary.
• Civil Service Pension with 28.97% employer contribution.
• Flexible working opportunities.
• Learning and development programmes.
• Career progression opportunities.
• Inclusive working environment.
• Paid annual leave and Civil Service employee benefits.

Working Pattern

• 37.5 hours per week.
• Permanent contract.
• Rotating 24/7 shift pattern.
• Office/Laboratory-based role.
• Hybrid working is not available.

Selection Process

Stage 1

• Online application form.
• Employment history.
• Supporting statement (maximum 750 words).

Applicants should clearly demonstrate how they meet the essential criteria.

Stage 2

Shortlisted candidates will attend a competency-based interview where knowledge, skills and experience will be assessed.

Security Requirements

Successful candidates must:

• Pass a Criminal Record Check.
• Obtain Counter Terrorist Check (CTC) clearance.
• Complete Baseline Personnel Security Standard (BPSS) checks.

Applicants are normally expected to have lived in the UK for the previous three years to obtain CTC clearance.

Important Information

• Visa Sponsorship: Not stated in the advert.
• Certificate of Sponsorship (CoS): Not specified.
• Remote Working: Not available.
• Location: Addenbrooke’s Hospital, Cambridge.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted before:

11:55 PM (UK Time), Tuesday, 14 July 2026

Why Apply?

This is an excellent opportunity to join one of the UK’s leading public health organisations. You’ll gain valuable laboratory experience, support essential microbiology services, and enjoy excellent Civil Service benefits with opportunities for long-term career progression.