Research Technician

The Opportunity

Research Technician - Flu Biopharmaceutical Development (Flu-BPD)

Location: Macclesfield

Contract type: Permanent

Join our client’s Flu Biopharmaceutical Development (Flu-BPD) group and contribute to the scientific advancement of live attenuated influenza vaccines (LAIV). This role is ideally suited for someone with hands‑on laboratory experience and strong expertise in virology
, molecular biology
, and in‑vitro characterisation within cell‑based assay development
.

As a Research Technician
, you will support the Virology Research team in developing innovative approaches and deepening the scientific understanding required to optimise LAIV strains. Your work will centre around in‑vitro characterisation assays
, molecular techniques, and cell‑based methods to support vaccine effectiveness studies and seasonal strain development.

You will be embedded directly with the customer team and work under the day‑to‑day operational direction of the customer area lead.

• Perform reverse genetics, in‑vitro characterisation assays, and virological methods to support Flu-BPD research projects and seasonal vaccine strain development.
• Conduct molecular and cell‑based assays to support LAIV optimisation under appropriate guidance.
• Record detailed observations, analyse data, and interpret experimental results.
• Present results at internal meetings and assist in preparing technical reports, summaries, and protocols.
• Ensure all work meets required standards for documentation, safety, compliance, and good laboratory practice.
• Maintain laboratory operations including stock control, housekeeping, and supplier communication.
• Ensure accurate and timely laboratory record‑keeping; assist in reviewing and approving documentation.

• BSc degree or equivalent in Biochemistry, Microbiology, Virology, Molecular Biology, or related field.
• Masters degree preferred.

• 23 years of experience working in a laboratory environment.
• Strong background in molecular and virological techniques essential.
• Experience performing in‑vitro and/or cell‑based assays highly desirable.
• Understanding of laboratory Health & Safety regulations.
• Experience working with SOPs, SLAs, KPIs, and in regulated laboratory environments.
• GMP experience is a plus.

• Strong scientific communication skills.
• Proficiency with Microsoft O365 (Teams, Word, Excel).
• Excellent planning, documentation, and time‑management skills.
• High attention to detail and commitment to high‑quality data output.
• Ability to identify and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.

• Able to work independently and collaboratively with minimal supervision.
• Strong customer‑focused mindset; able to manage expectations and deliver to SLAs.
• Positive, reliable team member with a proactive attitude.
• Quick learner capable of supporting new activities and training others.
• Good analytical and problem‑solving abilities.
• Flexible and adaptable to changing priorities.

• Primarily laboratory‑based with some office duties.
• PPE and laboratory dress code must be followed at all times.
• Includes computer/DSE work.

Interested? Let’s talk!

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by employees assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of all responsibilities, duties and skills required of employees assigned to this position. Avantor is proud to be an equal opportunity employer.

We are an Equal Employment/Affirmative Action employer and VEVRAA Federal Contractor. We do not discriminate in hiring on the basis of sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, color, religious creed, national origin, physical or mental disability, protected Veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state/province, or local law.

If you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please contact us by email at and let us know the nature of your request and your contact information. Requests for accommodation will be considered on a case‑by‑case basis. Please note that only inquiries concerning a request for reasonable accommodation will be responded to from this email address.