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Job description

As a Higher-Level Apprentice Laboratory Technician at FMI, you will support cutting-edge research by assisting scientists and industry partners. The role offers hands-on lab experience within a multidisciplinary team, fostering practical skills in experimental methods and emerging technologies. The two-year apprenticeship combines four days of practical training at FMI with one day of academic study per week at Southern Regional College (SRC), where you will pursue a Foundation Degree in Applied Science (Analytical or Bioscience Pathway). The programme includes structured training, mentoring, and professional development. Successful apprentices may progress into full-time Technician roles at QUB, depending on performance and role availability.

Responsibilities

• Train in biological techniques to support laboratory projects, learning appropriate methods and developing the skills to interpret results.
• Support the set-up and development of biochemical and cellular screening assays, gaining insight into how these are used to test antibodies and small molecules.
• Learn to operate, troubleshoot and carry out routine maintenance of laboratory equipment, maintaining accurate records of KPIs, performance, QC measures, faults, and reporting breakdowns.
• Assisting with routine servicing tasks and helping to keep the lab tidy.
• Learn how to monitor and manage laboratory supplies, assisting with stock checks and restocking consumables as needed.
• Observe and assist with the operation and scheduling of key laboratory equipment, learning how to use it efficiently and support bookings for colleagues/partners.
• Work collaboratively with team members, taking part in lab discussions and meetings to better understand ongoing projects.
• Help maintain communication with project partners, learning how to share relevant updates and developments.
• Learn how to record and manage experimental data accurately, using lab notebooks or digital systems, and develop skills in presenting findings during team meetings.
• Learn to prepare technical procedures, e.g. test buffers, stock solutions, culture media and replenishment of general supplies.
• Take part in relevant training to build knowledge of modern biology techniques, best practices, and drug discovery processes.
• Assist with basic administrative tasks, such as helping to organise research meetings and updating records, to gain experience in project coordination.
• Understand and follow health and safety procedures in the laboratory, including the correct use of equipment and personal protective equipment (PPE) to maintain the highest standards of health and safety compliance.
• Provide general day to day support to help the research group meet its objectives, contributing to the success of the team while developing your own skills and experience.

Skills and Qualifications

Essential Skills

• Minimum of 2 A Levels in a science subject at grades A - C (e.g. Chemistry, Biology, Physics, Maths, or Health & Life Sciences), or relevant Level 3 BTEC/OCR qualifications, or ADAL Access Diploma which contains an approved science module.
• Applicants must have attained a minimum of 96 UCAS points achieved through the completion of A Levels, National Awards, Access Diplomas or other alternative approved level 3 qualifications.
• At least 5 GCSEs at grades A - C (9-4), or equivalent, including Maths, English, and a Science.
• Must be 18 years or older by 1st July 2025.
• Genuine interest and foundational knowledge in the subject area.
• Basic understanding of health and safety regulations.

Desirable Skills

• Ability to demonstrate communication skills appropriate to a professional working environment.
• Evidence of developing/improving/enhancing skills through practical application.
• Competent in the use of Information & Technology and relevant software packages such as MS Word, Excel.
• Ability to demonstrate a methodical and logical approach to tasks.
• Ability to work on own initiative and to prioritise tasks.
• Able to demonstrate working successfully as part of a team.

Further Information

Location: Future Medicines Institute (FMI) based at Queen’s University. Applicants please note this position is under the auspices of ApprenticeshipNI provision. ApprenticeshipNI eligibility conditions apply. Please visit SRC’s course page for further details on entry requirements/equivalent qualifications. The Future Medicines Institute (FMI), based at Queen’s University Belfast, is a new research hub co-founded by leading pharmaceutical, diagnostics, and health analytics companies alongside QUB and Ulster University. It focuses on innovative solutions in precision medicine, novel therapeutics, advanced diagnostics, and healthcare technologies.