Flexa
Mars UK • United Kingdom

Laboratory Scientist – Biochemistry/Molecular/Microbiology

Employment type:  Full time

1–2 days/week at home

Core hours 11–3

Dog friendly

Job Description

Job Description:

Laboratory Scientist – Biochemistry/Molecular/Microbiology

Based at Waltham Petcare Science Institute, Leicestershire

As a Bioscience laboratory scientist in the Waltham Laboratory you will be responsible for and carry out a variety of experimental techniques and methodologies, with a high degree of competence and technical skill, to meet the needs of research projects. The data you will produce will contribute to scientific discoveries which will support the creation of new or improved products and services that reach millions of pets across the world through our brands to make a better world for pets.

Being part of the Waltham laboratory team you will work on additional projects within the laboratory focusing on improving our health and safety, quality, engagement or equipment. These projects will need both independent and group work to deliver and continual improve our laboratory ways of working and efficiency.

What are we looking for?

  • Must have knowledge and experience of carrying out one or more of the following techniques and methods; cell culture, cell based assays, immunoassays, microbiology techniques, DNA extraction and PCR.

  • Experience of working in a laboratory environment is essential, either as part of university course or work experience. Experience of working in a research environment is highly desirable.

  • Must have excellent communication skills and ability to communicate scientific messages with accuracy and clarity.

What will be your key responsibilities?

  • Perform a variety of existing laboratory methodologies, processes and provide high quality data to meet the requirements and aims of the research project(s) as defined by the Senior Research Scientist.

  • Use scientific knowledge and understanding to provide input during project discussions with the support of Laboratory Research Scientists as required.

  • With input and guidance from the Laboratory Research Scientists or Senior Research Scientists, support with the validation of new methodologies and contribute to the development, refinement and troubleshooting of relevant methodologies.

  • Carry out maintenance of key laboratory equipment in accordance with laboratory practices to ensure optimal operation.

  • Provide training and support to other laboratory scientists on routine methodologies and laboratory ways of working.

  • Communicate research data to internal customers and stakeholders via written communication or presentation.

  • Ensure regular communication to the Principle investigator of all information relevant to progress of the research project.

  • Maintain an accurate and detailed electronic laboratory notebook of all experimental work performed according to WALTHAM guidelines.

  • Work with the wider laboratory team to drive efficiency and optimal ways of working within the laboratory.

  • Contribute to written reports and input into scientific publications in support of the principle investigator.

  • Carry out work within the laboratory in accordance with QMP and HS&E requirements. Support laboratory owners to implement and maintain quality and health and safety initiatives.

What can you expect from Mars?

  • Work with over 130,000 diverse and talented Associates, all guided by the Five Principles.

  • Join a purpose driven company, where we’re striving to build the world we want tomorrow, today.

  • Best-in-class learning and development support from day one, including access to our in-house Mars University.

  • An industry competitive salary and benefits package, including company bonus.

#LI-SS1

Mars is an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law. If you need assistance or an accommodation during the application process because of a disability, it is available upon request. The company is pleased to provide such assistance, and no applicant will be penalized as a result of such a request.

Company benefits

Open to part-time employees
Open to job sharing
Open to compressed hours
Sabbaticals
Enhanced maternity leave – 26 weeks at 90% pay
Enhanced paternity leave – 26 weeks at 90% pay
24 days annual leave + bank holidays
“Pawternity” leave
Pregnancy loss leave
Bank holiday swaps
Location
94%
Employees are very happy with their working location freedom
Hours
91%
Employees are very happy with the flexibility in the hours they work
Benefits
84%
Employees are very happy with the benefits their company offers
Work-life balance
80%
Employees feel that they can switch off quite easily from work
Role modelling
81%
Employees feel that flexible working is part of the culture
Autonomy
90%
Employees feel they have complete autonomy over getting their work done

Additional employee ratings
(these do not contribute to the FlexScore®)

Diversity
75%
Employees feel that the diversity is good and there are continued efforts to improve it
Inclusion
78%
Employees feel that the culture supports equity and inclusivity well
Culture
86%
Employees feel like it is a really great environment to work in
Mission
84%
Employees feel very excited about and aligned with the company mission
Salary
70%
Employees feel that their salary is good and matches the value they bring

Working at Mars UK

Company employees

4,000 In the UK

Gender diversity (male:female)

57:43

Office locations

London, Slough, Waltham, Castle Cary, Birstall, Plymouth

Hiring Countries

Brazil
France
Netherlands
United Kingdom
United States

Awards & Achievements

1st – Large companies

1st – Large companies

Flexa100 2024
Consumer Goods

Consumer Goods

Industry awards 2023
3rd – Large companies

3rd – Large companies

Flexa100 2023
Retail & Ecommerce

Retail & Ecommerce

Industry awards 2022