Eve Martin, Research Laboratory Technician

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What I do

I work in a laboratory, helping to keep things running smoothly behind the scenes so the scientists can focus on their research.

I do things like preparing the lab equipment, making up solutions that help grow cells, organising deliveries and helping to fix things when they break. My work ensures the lab is ready for important science to happen.

Alchemab Therapeutics does research into why some people’s immune systems are better than others at fighting diseases. We then use this information to help find new medicines for diseases that are difficult to treat.

Research Laboratory Technician Eve, in the lab, wearing a lab coat, safety glasses, and latex gloves, working with chemicals in a fume cupboard.

How I became a technician

For my GCSEs, I chose history, geography, French, photography and sport. After school, I went to sixth form where I did a biology A-level, and BTECs in sport and health and social care.

I also completed an EPQ, which is an Extended Project Qualification, where you research a topic you’re interested in. Mine was about how growing up with a dog can affect a child’s development.

How I became a technician

I went to university to study biomedical science, but I left during second year. It just didn’t feel right for me at the time. That was a scary decision, but it turned out to be the right one in the end.

I went travelling on my own around Central and South America. While I was away, I read a book about DNA and realised how interesting biology actually was.

How I became a technician

I knew the best way for me to get into science was through an apprenticeship, so I started looking online for opportunities. I applied for this apprenticeship while I was on a bus in Peru!

When I got back to the UK, I was offered the position and a few months later, I started my new role.

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A typical day in my working life

I usually get to the lab at around 8am, which is a bit earlier than most people. That gives me time to get things started while it’s quiet and ensure everything is ready when those who use the equipment arrive.

One of these jobs is preparing media, which is the name we give to the nutrient-rich jelly that we pour into petri dishes, so that cells can grow.

A typical day in my working life

Making media can take all day, so it’s good to start early! I mix it, sterilise it, cool it, add antibiotics and then pour it out in a totally clean environment so it’s free from any bacteria.

I also check the laboratory helpdesk to see if anyone’s logged problems, like broken equipment. I might need to book a repair or send off equipment to be fixed.

A typical day in my working life

My job involves keeping track of everything that’s going in and out of the lab and making sure it’s recorded properly, so I need to book in deliveries and prepare outgoing shipments.

I also regularly check the labs to make sure everything is stocked and working properly.

A typical day in my working life

I work closely with another lab technician, and we plan our work together. I usually finish around 4pm, but every day is a little different.

I love that it’s a mix of routine tasks and unexpected challenges.

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What I love about my job

I love being surrounded by people who are really knowledgeable and passionate about what they do. It makes me want to keep learning and improving.

Everyone is always curious and no one acts like they know everything, no matter how experienced they are. It feels like we’re all learning together.

I also like the balance between routine and variety. There are set tasks that always need doing, but you never know what problems might come up.

Some days are calm and others are full of surprises. It keeps the job interesting and enjoyable.

The skills I use most

Time management is a big one. Some tasks take hours, so I’ve got to plan my day carefully. I use alarms, my notepad and sticky notes to keep track of everything.

I also need to be adaptable because plans can change quickly if something changes, or a delivery arrives late.

Being precise is really important too, especially when you’re measuring out chemicals or preparing media, because everything has to be accurate.

I use problem solving a lot too, like when I’m working out how to . I’ve got to be ready to find solutions quickly, on the spot. If equipment isn’t working, the work of the lab will slow down.

I love being surrounded by people who are knowledgeable and passionate about what they do.

Some days are calm and others are full of surprises. It keeps the job interesting and enjoyable.

Changing the path I was on felt scary, but it wasn’t a failure. It helped me find something better.

A little more about my everyday role

The best bits about working in a team

Everyone in my team is really helpful and easy to talk to. I feel comfortable asking questions, which is great because there’s so much to learn. No one makes me feel silly for not knowing something.

We all support each other and work together to make sure everything in the lab runs smoothly. It feels like a proper team, where everyone works together rather than doing things on their own. That makes a huge difference, especially when you’re new and still learning.

My favourite piece of equipment

I enjoy working in the hood where we pour media. It’s a special enclosed workspace that keeps everything clean and sterile.

It makes you feel like you’re doing something very important and scientific!

What I like to do in my spare time

I do gymnastics, but just for fun, not competitively. I also enjoy running, reading and baking.

I’ve always liked creative and hands-on activities, and that hasn’t really changed since I was younger.

My school days

At school, I was really sporty. I did gymnastics, netball and played hockey for my school team. I also loved doing creative things like photography and baking. I was always busy with different activities.

Back then, I didn’t really know what I wanted to do. At one point I thought I might become an Olympic gymnastics coach! Science wasn’t a big focus for me at school, but I’ve definitely found my way back to it. It goes to show that you don’t have to have everything figured out early on.

The most exciting thing I’ve achieved so far in my job

Getting this apprenticeship felt like a huge achievement. I didn’t think I would get it, so being offered the role felt amazing.

Being here has opened up loads of opportunities, and I feel lucky to be part of it all. It’s been really rewarding to start something new and realise it’s the right fit.

A surprising fact about my job

Most people don’t realise how important the behind-the-scenes work is. If technicians didn’t prepare the laboratory, fix the equipment or sort the deliveries, the science research wouldn’t be able to happen.

We don’t wear lab coats all the time, but we’re a crucial part of the team.

The advice I’d give to someone younger

Just try things. You never know if something’s right for you unless you give it a go. And if something doesn’t work out, that’s OK too. It’s fine to change direction.

Changing the path I was on felt scary, but it wasn’t a failure. It helped me find something better. It’s better to try and find out than always wonder 'What if...?'