Laboratory Technician [Biotechnology/Plant Science]

Job Title: Laboratory Technician

Location: Initially University Park, University of Nottingham, then moving in 2026 to new lab facilities in Nottingham or Loughborough.

Type: Full-time preferred; part-time may be considered

About NetZeroNitrogen Ltd

NetZeroNitrogen (NZN) is a pioneering biotech company developing a bacterial biofertilizer that improves plant health, increases crop yields, and reduces reliance on synthetic fertilizers. Our vision is to become a global leader with a portfolio of biological products that provide sustainable food security. Simply put, NZN products offer farmers a highly effective, natural, and cost-efficient alternative to synthetic fertilizers.

We have a small, expert team with over 20 years of combined experience, successfully translating biological nitrogen-fixation technology into commercial products. Joining NZN means being part of a mission-driven team tackling one of the biggest challenges of our time: climate change.

The Role

We’re looking for a versatile Laboratory Technician to join our team. You’ll start by supporting research staff with microbiology and plant experiments and will grow into managing prep room operations once we move lab. This is a hands-on, dynamic role where no two days are the same, and your contributions will directly impact the company’s mission.

What You’ll Do

• Assist research staff with microbiology and plant experiments, including sowing, irrigation, and seedling sampling.
• Prepare culture media, reagents, bead tubes, and plant growth substrates.
• Maintain lab equipment and cleanliness: autoclaves, glassware, benches, microwaves, centrifuges.
• Track consumables and lab stocks, refill supplies, and label materials accurately.
• Conduct routine equipment checks and maintain logs of work.
• As the lab expands in the near future: oversee prep room operations, manage inventory, support research staff, and improve lab processes while maintaining safety standards.

About You

The right candidate is enthusiastic, proactive, and thoughtful – someone who genuinely cares about their work and colleagues. Being successful in this role is as much about attitude as skills: you should be flexible, considerate, collaborative, and motivated to contribute to a mission-driven team. You’ll have:

• Previous lab experience, ideally in microbiology or plant work.
• Core lab skills: media preparation, aseptic techniques, autoclaving, and glassware handling.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and reliability.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a small, hands-on team.
• Flexibility as responsibilities evolve with the lab move.

What We Offer:

• Competitive salary (£27,000 to £32,000, depending on experience).
• Employee share options, pension, private medical insurance, 36 days paid leave, flexible working.
• Exposure to cutting-edge biotech research and product development.
• Opportunities to take on increasing responsibility and grow with the company.
• A supportive, collaborative, and dynamic team environment where your contributions have real impact.

Application Process

Send your CV and a brief cover letter explaining your experience and interest in NZN. Please include your CV and cover letter in the same file when submitting. Shortlisting will start in early January with interviews soon after.

Other Information

• You must have the right to live and work in the UK; please consult the Home Office website for guidance.
• Industry: Biotechnology
• Employment Type: Full-time preferred; part-time may be considered