Laboratory technician

Are you looking for a hands-on science role? As a laboratory technician, you'll perform a range of tasks to support scientists and their research.

In this role, you'll mainly do laboratory-based tests, research and investigations. You could work across lots of different areas such as forensic science, scientific analysis, the health service, education or climate change response.

Laboratory technicians play a key role in vital scientific projects. For example, you might work to diagnose diseases, measure pollution levels or develop exciting new products.

You'll likely work as part of a team alongside scientists and other technicians. With experience, you may supervise laboratory support workers or junior technicians. Laboratory technicians must have a good awareness of health and safety regulations.

Your tasks might include:

• setting up experiments or investigations – you'll also prepare solutions, cultures or specimens

• carrying out risk assessments for laboratory activities

• collecting and analysing samples then recording and presenting data

• doing audits and ordering stock

• disposing of chemicals and waste products in a safe way

• making sure that equipment is clean and in good working order

If you work in education, you'll also set up equipment and demonstrate experiments.

In this job, you may do work that helps the environment. You could:  

• test environmental samples for pollution levels 

• follow green practices such as disposing of chemicals in a way that protects the environment 

Find out more about green jobs. 

• Not Just Lab Coats – explore different career options across science, manufacturing and technology

• Science Council – learn more about science-based careers, including science technician