Science apprenticeships: what could I do?

  • Last updated 23 Jun 2022

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Calling all budding Einsteins: if you’re great at science and want to get on the career ladder then look no further.

Laboratory and science technician apprenticeships

You’ll train as a junior laboratory technician and learn practical scientific skills. The nature of your work will depend on your employer, but whether you work for a pharmaceutical company or a university, you’ll probably be part of a team of other scientists and technicians.

Your work might include:

·       helping collect and analyse samples

·       preparing cultures or specimens

·       setting up experiments

·       recording and presenting data

You might also be responsible for ordering and controlling laboratory stock and supplies, and making sure laboratory equipment is clean and in good working order.

During your apprenticeship you’ll learn about the fundamentals of science, pick up practical skills and take a qualification in applied science.

Intermediate level apprenticeship

You could train in roles like:

·       laboratory technician education science

·       laboratory technician

·       laboratory analysis technician

·       laboratory manufacturing technician

·       medical laboratory assistant

Advanced level apprenticeship

You’ll take on more specialised roles like:

·       laboratory researcher / technician

·       laboratory manufacturing technician

·       fermentation laboratory technician

Chemical science apprenticeships

Chemistry has emerged as a central science that ties together a multitude of scientific roles, and the modern world has become dependent upon chemical science for the manufacture and development of synthetic materials,  the formulation of new consumer products and the breakthrough innovation of new molecules for medicine.

Chemists are not only required to create these products, they must do so through efficient and safe means for their production, packaging, usage, and possible recycling.

As the global population has peaked, the role of the chemical scientist in food security, environmental protection and medical breakthroughs required for the growing world has significantly increased in importance.

Example units:

Inorganic chemistry

Organic chemistry

Physical chemistry

Laboratory techniques

Analysis of scientific data & information

Work-based experience

Laboratory management

Industrial chemistry

Life sciences apprenticeships

These focus on in-depth high level life sciences knowledge that is applied in a work setting, so the apprentice gains the hands-on practical experience not traditionally provided through an undergraduate degree programme.

Topics include:

Industrial microbiology

Biochemistry of macromolecules and metabolic pathways

Cell biology

Laboratory techniques for applied biology

Analysis of scientific data and information

Physiology of cellular systems in animals

Statistics for experimental design

Neurophysiology and homeostatic control of the human body

Molecular biology and genetics

The immune response system

Infectious diseases

Pharmacological principles of drug actions

Medicinal chemistry

Nanotechnology

Chemistry for applied biologists

Bioinformatics

Human health and nutrition

Physiological principles for health and social care

Quality assurance and quality control

Professional competences

Read more:

Engineering apprenticeships

Tech apprenticeships

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