A Lab Assistant's duties involve supporting scientists by preparing samples, running basic tests, operating and maintaining equipment, managing supplies, and ensuring a clean, safe environment, all while meticulously documenting procedures and results according to strict health and safety regulations, requiring strong attention to detail and teamwork. They handle specimen collection (like phlebotomy), labeling, processing, quality control checks, and data entry, bridging pre-analytical (specimen prep) and post-analytical (reporting) phases of lab work.