Biology Laboratory Technician

Also known as:

Laboratory Technician, Biology

Introduction

Biology laboratory technicians provide technical assistance to biological scientists. They set up equipment, prepare and carry out experiments, take measurements and report on their findings. They may work in industry, higher education or for research organisations.

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Work Activities

Biology laboratory (lab) technicians help scientists to develop new processes and products, do experiments, or analyse and test biological samples.

Biology lab technicians look after the day-to-day running of the laboratory. They clean, sterilise and repair equipment such as test tubes. They monitor stock, sometimes using computers, and order replacements when necessary. They dispose of laboratory waste.

Technicians are involved in a wide variety of biological tasks and investigations. In pharmaceutical companies, they may examine how a disease develops and spreads, and help scientists to test the strength and possible side effects of a new drug.

Some technicians work in education laboratories, helping teachers and students by maintaining equipment, and setting up and clearing away experiments.

In the food industry technicians may test food safety, check for harmful micro-organisms, or control the helpful micro-organisms used to make products like bread, yogurt, cheese and wine.

In forensic science, technicians prepare samples from body fluids like blood and saliva.

Biological lab technicians monitor samples from plants and animals, including bacterial and tissue cultures. They may look after laboratory animals, or help to breed animals especially for research.

Lab technicians work at different levels. Senior technicians may do more experiments and report writing. They may also train and supervise junior staff and manage health and safety procedures.

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Personal Qualities and Skills

As a biology laboratory technician you must be thorough, methodical and accurate in setting up and carrying out experiments. You must be able to record test results, and write technical reports.

Good teamwork skills are very important, because technicians work closely with researchers, scientists, or teachers. You must be able to use complex equipment and you need IT skills for checking stock, recording results and writing reports.

Technicians are often trained in the workplace, so you must be willing to learn and develop new knowledge and skills.

Health and safety is very important as you may work with potentially dangerous substances and materials. You must follow procedures, accept health checks and use protective clothing and equipment when needed.

For some work you need good colour vision. If you suffer from allergies or asthma, some substances may cause irritation.

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Pay and Opportunities

Salaries vary depending on the company and range of responsibility.

The pay rates given below are approximate.

Biology laboratory technicians earn in the range of £14,000 - £16,500 a year, rising to around £17,000 - £25,000 a year.

Biology laboratory technicians usually work a 35-39 hour week, Monday to Friday.

There are opportunities in a wide variety of manufacturing industries, especially food and brewing, where biotechnology is used. Water companies also employ technicians. Others work in education or for research organisations.

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Adult Opportunities

It is illegal for any organisation to set age limits for entry to employment, education or training, unless they can show there is a real need to have these limits.

Some entrants have a background in laboratory work, eg, as a routine tester or assistant.

Colleges will usually consider applications from candidates who do not meet their usual entry requirements. You should check the admissions policy of individual colleges.

• 16% of laboratory technicians work part-time.
• 16% have flexible hours.
• 8% of employees work on a temporary basis.

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New Developments

Some people working in this occupation may be involved in the green jobs sector in areas such as renewable energy or waste management.