Technical Assistant Apprentice

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About the opportunity

QIAGEN Manchester is a world-leading centre for molecular diagnostics, developing innovative solutions that support personalised healthcare in areas such as oncology and infectious diseases. As an Apprentice Technical Assistant, you’ll begin your career in a hands-on laboratory environment, gaining practical experience while working alongside experienced colleagues. Full training will be provided, starting with the foundations of high-quality laboratory work, including goods-in, sample handling and storage, before progressing to support an R&D project. Working as part of a small and supportive project team, you’ll build your skills across a range of molecular biology workflows and contribute to the development of new diagnostic products designed to address important medical needs.

Successful candidates will enroll on the Scientist (Biological Scientist) Degree pathway at Manchester Metropolitan University

The closing date for applications is Monday 23rd November, midday. Interviews will be held in Manchester on Wednesday 9th December.

Your tasks include

• Carrying out the practical elements of studies which can include: DNA and RNA extraction using manual extraction kits and or automated instruments; PCR manual setup and or using automated instruments; NGS library preparation; sequencing; precision serial dilutions; handling and processing of biological samples
• Conducting general maintenance and lab safety activities (equipment maintenance, consumable orders, receipt of material, lab stocking, housekeeping and similar activities)
• Supporting the planning, execution and reporting of laboratory work and experiments
• Accurate recording of laboratory work and experiments in laboratory notebooks or worksheets
• Adherence to COSHH and Health & Safety requirements
• Working as part of the product development team to ensure a safe and efficient laboratory environment

Your profile

• Proven organisational skills, self-motivated with attention to detail
• Able to communicate effectively
• Accountable, with a commitment to high quality work supporting medical device development in a regulated environment
• An awareness of and ability to learn different laboratory techniques. Relevant laboratory techniques may include: Next Generation Sequencing (NGS); processing biological samples; DNA extraction using manual extraction kits and or automated instruments; PCR manual setup and or using automated instruments
• Proficient in MS Office packages (e.g. Excel, Word, Outlook and PowerPoint)
• Satisfy Manchester Metropolitan University Scientist (Biological Scientist) Apprenticeship Entry requirements:

- be 18 or older (on 1st September 2027)

- have the right of abode and right to work in the UK to qualify for funding

- meet programme entry requirements:

- Applicants should have a minimum of 104 UCAS tariff points including 3 A Levels (1 must be Grade C in Biology) or an equivalent level 3 qualification, eg BTEC Extended Diploma (Scientific Discipline) DMM and above or the T Level Science with Merit.

- Applicants with other level 3 qualifications, including other BTECs or the Level 3 Laboratory Technician apprenticeship will be considered on an individual basis through the non-standard entry route. This comprises a knowledge assessment as part of the application process.