This apprenticeship will be based within the Protein Mass Spectrometry team which is part of the Structural Biology department (SBB). In this role, you will learn how to use a technique called mass spectrometry, alongside a range of biochemical assays, to help identify and study proteins. You will contribute to work that characterises protein targets, tracks changes in proteins, and runs experiments to measure how proteins interact with potential drug molecules.

Job Description

The protein mass spec laboratory Scientist Apprenticeship will be embedded within our Structural Biology and Biophysics (SBB) department, where we determine protein 3D structures and study their mechanism of action. The SBB department supports drug discovery by producing and characterising protein reagents, using a range of techniques, and generating biophysical and structural data to guide hit discovery and lead optimisation.

As an apprentice, you will join our welcoming and dynamic Mass Spectrometry team, where you will learn a wide range of biochemical, biophysical, and mass spectrometry techniques to contribute to our drug discovery pipeline. With training and mentoring from experienced scientists, you will build hands on skills handling protein, practical mass spectrometry, data interpretation and experimental troubleshooting, and gain an understanding of how disease relevant proteins are used to drive drug discovery. You will be fully supported by experienced scientists and embedded within a wider drug discovery organisation, giving you exposure to how new medicines are developed. Through regular discussions, seminars and presentations—you will build your understanding of disease biology, the drug discovery process, and how scientific research translates into real world medicines.

Understanding and working to strict safety and ethical guidelines is paramount to this role. The apprentice will be expected to work both individually and as part of a laboratory team. With appropriate time, training and experience, they will be able to work with minimum supervision, taking responsibility for the quality, accuracy and recording of the work that is undertaken. They will be proactive in finding solutions to problems and helping identify ways to improve processes.

Job Responsibilities

At the end of the Apprenticeship, the Apprentice will be able to:

• Prepare for and perform laboratory tasks using the appropriate scientific techniques, procedures and methods relevant to the activities of the laboratory

• Apply knowledge of underlying scientific principles in laboratory-based experimentation and implement new processes according to the literature or input from colleagues

• Demonstrate and explain the principles of laboratory techniques and scientific experimentation to contribute to the development of scientific technical projects

• Develop and apply a theoretical knowledge of the advanced science and technology required to progress in the job role and relevant area of specialism

• Understand the business environment in which the company operates including personal role within the organisation, ethical practice and codes of conduct

• Work safely within a laboratory environment, maintaining excellent housekeeping whilst following appropriate safety, environment and risk management systems

• Promote and ensure the application of quality standards relevant to the workplace

• Work autonomously to analyse, interpret and evaluate scientific data and present the results of laboratory work and problem solving clearly and concisely in written and oral form

• Undertake continuous performance improvement within the scientific and technical environment

• Use creative thinking and problem solving to challenge assumptions, innovate, make new proposals and build on existing ideas

• Plan and prioritise tasks, review and evaluate progress against objectives and investigate alternative scenarios

• Communicate effectively using a full range of skills: speaking to a scientific and non-scientific audience, active listening, professional writing, professional body language, scientific presentation

• Demonstrate reliability, integrity and respect for confidentiality on work related and personal matters, including appropriate use of social media and information systems

• Interact effectively within a wide, multi-disciplinary project team

• Understand the impact of work on others

• Manage time effectively, being able to plan and complete work to schedule

• Able to handle change and respond to change management processes

• Take responsibility for personal development, demonstrating commitment to learning and self-improvement

Training To Be Delivered

Qualification to be delivered: Bioscience BSc

Apprenticeship Standard: Scientist

Apprenticeship level: Level 6

Training Provider: University of Kent

Delivery model: The training for this apprenticeship will be delivered online