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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage in hands-on biological product development and lab experiments.
- Company: Join Accord Healthcare, a global leader in pharmaceuticals focused on innovative medicines.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days holiday, potential for permanent roles, and tailored training opportunities.
- Why this job: Kickstart your science career with real lab experience and expert mentorship in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: 5 GCSEs and A-Levels or equivalent qualifications in relevant sciences required.
- Other info: Blended learning model with summer schools at Canterbury campus; RSci status available post-apprenticeship.
Overview
Kickstart your career in science and technology with this Degree Level Apprenticeship opportunity. From day one, you\’ll be hands-on in biological product development, gaining real lab experience in a fast-paced biopharma environment. You will carry out diverse process development experiments, learn cutting-edge methods, and grow under expert technical supervision.
Cogent Skills is working with Accord Healthcare Ltd to recruit three Degree Level Research Associate Apprentices for its Accord Biopharma London (ABL) lab in Harrow. The successful candidates will be employed by Cogent Skills Services but will undertake all on-job learning with Accord Healthcare. The ABL lab is a centre of excellence for Research and Development activities, aiming for biosimilar process development and novel biologics development for both human and veterinary use. There are three roles available: Bioanalytical Development (BDL), Upstream Process Development (UPD), and Downstream Process Development (DSP).
Delivery model: Blended learning through online and face-to-face sessions, with work-based learning and projects. There are two residential summer schools in years 1 and 2 at the university\’s Canterbury campus. This role is part of our talent planning for the future; for the right people, we are looking to continue to develop Apprentices upon successful completion of the Apprenticeship. There may be opportunities for permanent employment subject to performance, successful completion, and availability of roles. Upon completion, individuals are eligible to apply for Registered Scientist (RSci) status via a shortened route.
Responsibilities
- Conduct process development activities such as cell culture process, downstream or analytical function related work.
- Prepare and document media, feeds, buffers, and supplements accurately and in a timely manner.
- Monitor experiment performance by regularly recording parameters and responding to deviations or unexpected trends.
- Set up, operate, clean, and maintain equipment and analytical tools.
- Adhere to SOPs, good documentation practices (GDP), and good laboratory practices (GLP).
- Follow and promote all EHS procedures and safety guidelines in the lab.
- Ensure proper handling and storage of chemicals, biological materials, and lab waste; support in preparing risk assessments and COSHH.
- Take personal ownership of assigned tasks and ensure timely, high-quality execution with minimal supervision.
- Work collaboratively with peers across functions to support overall project timelines.
- Contribute to continuous improvement initiatives within the lab, including equipment maintenance and process improvements.
Qualifications and Requirements
- 5 GCSEs at grades C/4 or above (or equivalent) including Mathematics and English, plus;
- A-Levels equalling 80 UCAS points, including Biology at grade C or above plus an additional Science or Mathematics, OR
- Equivalent Level 3 qualifications (e.g., BTEC) with a minimum of 80 UCAS points, OR
- A Level 3 Laboratory Technical Apprenticeship in a relevant science discipline.
- Ability to work as part of a team; energetic, with high personal pride in work; excellent written and oral communication skills.
- Excellent organisational and administration skills; able to work accurately to deadlines; good working knowledge of MS Office in a lab environment.
- Ability to produce reliable, accurate data and to analyse and evaluate results. Logical problem solving, perseverance, and a positive attitude toward learning and change.
- Aptitude and passion for science.
Delivery and Locations
- Delivery model: Blended learning combining online and face-to-face learning with work-based projects.
- Residential summer schools: two sessions in years 1 and 2 at Canterbury campus.
- Relocation and travel requirements: candidates must live within commutable distance of the site and be willing to travel to Canterbury for summer schools; study time will form part of the working week.
Employer Information
Our business is growing, with potential opportunities for permanent employment subject to performance and role availability. Upon successful apprenticeship completion, individuals may apply for RSci status. Accord Healthcare is a global pharmaceutical company focused on generic, biosimilar, and value-added medicines across 85+ countries, with therapeutic focus in oncology, cardiology, neurology, psychiatry, diabetes, pain management, and gastroenterology. The company values development and inclusion, offering tailored training and professional development support.
Additional Information
Salary will rise in line with national minimum wage rates. Apprentices may be eligible for further wage increments based on company budgets and achievement of goals. Holiday allowance: 25 days plus bank holidays.
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Research Associate Degree Apprenticeship employer: Accord Healthcare
Contact Detail:
Accord Healthcare Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Research Associate Degree Apprenticeship
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific areas of research at Accord Healthcare, such as Bioanalytical Development, Upstream Process Development, and Downstream Process Development. Understanding these areas will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and demonstrate your genuine interest in their work.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former apprentices and employees at Accord Healthcare. They can provide valuable insights into the company culture and expectations, which can help you prepare for interviews and show that you're proactive about your career.
✨Tip Number 3
Brush up on your laboratory skills and knowledge of good laboratory practices (GLP) and good documentation practices (GDP). Being able to discuss these topics confidently will set you apart from other candidates who may not have the same level of understanding.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your passion for science and any relevant projects or experiences you've had. Be ready to explain how these experiences have shaped your interest in a career in biopharma, as this will resonate well with the interviewers at Accord Healthcare.
We think you need these skills to ace Research Associate Degree Apprenticeship
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Research Associate Degree Apprenticeship. Understand the responsibilities and qualifications required, as this will help you tailor your application.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any relevant experience you have in biological product development or laboratory work. Mention specific skills or projects that align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that showcases your passion for science and technology. Explain why you are interested in this apprenticeship and how your background makes you a suitable candidate for the role.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, carefully proofread all documents for spelling and grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in a lab environment.
How to prepare for a job interview at Accord Healthcare
✨Show Your Passion for Science
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for the field of science and technology during the interview. Share any relevant experiences or projects that highlight your interest in biological product development and how they have prepared you for this apprenticeship.
✨Demonstrate Teamwork Skills
Since the role requires collaboration with peers, be ready to discuss examples of how you've successfully worked in a team. Highlight your ability to communicate effectively and contribute positively to group projects.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Brush up on your knowledge of laboratory practices, including good documentation practices (GDP) and good laboratory practices (GLP). Be prepared to answer questions related to process development activities and analytical techniques relevant to the role.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
At the end of the interview, take the opportunity to ask thoughtful questions about the apprenticeship programme, the lab environment, and potential career progression. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.