Laboratory Scientist Degree Apprenticeship

What will the apprentice be doing?

• To assist scientists with their laboratory experiments and support the company with its key deliverables to develop, validate unique analytical assays and use the assays to analyse samples from drug development projects
• Perform general laboratory duties including stock control, consumable ordering and laboratory housekeeping
• Calibration and maintenance of laboratory equipment
• Preparation of laboratory reagents
• Use and maintenance of laboratory equipment and analytical instrumentation
• Sample management activities
• Compound management
• Working in accordance with GLP/GCP and good documentation practice
• Maintaining a clean and safe working environment at all times
• General administrative tasks

What training will the apprentice take and what qualification will the apprentice get at the end?

• The apprentices will work toward achieving a BSc (Hons) degree in Chemical Science
• Along with on-the-job training, their academic training will be conducted by the Manchester Metropolitan University
• The academic training will be performed in 1/5 of their working hours and will be a mixture of blended distance learning and annual residential sessions

What is the expected career progression after this apprenticeship?

Once qualified, the typical progression is to scientist, senior scientist and then principal scientist. Other routes open are to move away from the laboratory-based work to perform as a study director or project manager.

Requirements and prospects

Desired skills and personal qualities

Communication skills, Attention to detail, Organisation skills, Number skills, Team working

Qualifications

A Level or equivalent Chemistry (Grade C or Higher (plus 2 others)) Essential