Science Technology Graduate

This two-year graduate program trains recent science graduates into skilled laboratory technicians by providing hands-on experience in biological research facilities and guiding them through an independent technical research project.

Overview:
The MRC Laboratory of Medical Sciences (LMS) has recently established a graduate programme designed to train and develop fresh science graduates into skilled laboratory technicians. Our 2026 graduate programme will offer aspiring scientists the opportunity to work within our Proteomics and Metabolomics research facilities to develop their technical expertise.

In addition, the programme will support the professional development of successful applicants by providing a variety of growth opportunities, including conventions and workshops. 

Description of the Post:

• In Year 1, the post holder will be assigned to a research facility and work predominantly in that area to learn the methodologies and how the facility is managed. As the year progresses, the post holder will be given the opportunity to work with and in other research facilities to expand their knowledge and practical experience.

• In Year 2, the post holder will work on an independent research project within the facility to further develop their technical skills, as well as interact across other facilities to support LMS science outputs. The post holder will be involved in developing methods/protocols and in implementing methods or efficiency improvements that improve the Institute’s environmental sustainability.
   

Working relationships: 

• The post holder will report to the Heads of the Graduate Programme and to the Head of their hosting facility.

Main duties 

• To conduct research tasks and laboratory experiments relevant to the work of the hosting research facility.  

• To contribute to the work of the facility and outputs of LMS research groups. 

• To pilot relevant techniques or adaptations that support environmental sustainability.

Person Specification

Education / Qualifications / Training required (will be assessed from the application form): 

Essential:

• BSc in a biological science or related science area (2:1 or above), awarded in 2023 or later, or set to be awarded before August 2026

Knowledge and experience (will be assessed from the application form and at the interview):

Essential:

• Previous experience in a laboratory research environment

• Knowledge of biology, computing, and standard molecular and cellular laboratory techniques

• Knowledge of common software tools (Word, Excel, etc)

• Strong interest in medical, health, and experimental research

• Strong interest in the research fields related to the hosting facility
  

Personal skills / Behaviours / Qualities and competences (will be assessed at the interview):

Essential:

• Ability to grasp new concepts quickly

• Ability to follow protocols accurately and respect samples and data

• Ability to be organised and work effectively to meet deadlines

Desirable:

• Ability to problem-solve and troubleshoot techniques

• Ability to train and support others

• Highly motivated and highly committed

• Enthusiastic and keen to learn

• Excellent verbal and written communication skills

• Willing to work in a team and be cooperative

• Willingness to work with biological and clinical samples

   

Other Details: 

Applications are welcome from candidates with BSc degrees in: biochemistry, biology, biomedical science, biotechnology, cellular biology, chemistry, computing, engineering, genetics, immunology, mathematics, microbiology, molecular biology, physics and physiology.

This list is not exhaustive, so applications from candidates with other biological sciences degrees or degrees in related science areas will also be considered.