Materials Science Degree Apprenticeship

Supports the development and testing of advanced ceramic materials through laboratory work, research projects, and practical materials science experience while studying for a degree apprenticeship.

Ready to turn your curiosity into real-world innovation?
Kickstart your career with Lucideon’s Materials Science Degree Apprenticeship – where cutting-edge technology meets hands-on experience, and your ideas can make a genuine impact.

Why Lucideon?

At Lucideon, you won’t just study materials science – you’ll live it.

You’ll be involved in the development and characterisation of advanced ceramic-based materials, including 3D printing, ceramic matrix composites (CMCs) and geopolymers. Working in our state-of-the-art laboratories, you’ll gain experience across a range of processing routes and testing techniques while contributing to live, commercially relevant projects in sectors including Aerospace, Energy, Healthcare, Automotive and Nuclear.

This is your opportunity to apply theory in real-world settings, contributing to the development and commercialisation of advanced ceramic materials and technologies.

What You’ll Be Doing

As part of our team, you’ll:

• Gain hands-on laboratory and project experience from day one

• Work alongside experienced and world-leading scientists and engineers

• Contribute to meaningful R&D projects that drive innovation

• Build skills in materials science, equipment operation, and project management

• Experience the journey from concept through to commercial application

No two days are the same – the variety and exposure in this apprenticeship is genuinely unique.

Your Apprenticeship Journey

You’ll study for a Materials Science Technologist Degree Apprenticeship with the University of Derby, starting September 2026, combining academic learning with practical experience:

• 80% on-site at Lucideon – getting stuck into real projects

• 20% off-the-job learning – university study and independent development including face to face delivery with lectures and workshops

• Supported by a structured training programme and university partnership

• Completion over 48 months plus an End Point Assessment (EPA) with an external assessor

Who We’re Looking For

We’re looking for people who are:

• Naturally curious and hands-on

• Eager to learn, with a passion for science and innovation and a pro-active approach to learning

• Confident working both independently and as part of a team

• Strong communicators who enjoy collaborating across disciplines

• Analytical thinkers with a problem-solving mindset

If you enjoy figuring out how things work – and how they can work better – you’ll thrive here.

Qualifications

You’ll need:

• 2 A Levels (Grade B or above) including Maths plus Chemistry, Physics, or Engineering
  or equivalent (e.g. relevant T Levels)

• 5 GCSEs at Grade 6/B or above, including Maths and English and a either Physics or Chemistry

Experience (Desirable)

Any exposure to laboratory work, engineering, or materials science is a bonus – whether through education, projects, or work experience.

Ready to Start Your Journey?

This is more than a degree apprenticeship – it’s your chance to build a career at the forefront of materials science.