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- Tasks: Learn lab skills and contribute to groundbreaking drug discovery projects.
- Company: Join AstraZeneca, a leader in life-changing medicine and innovation.
- Benefits: Earn a competitive salary while gaining a fully funded degree.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in healthcare while kickstarting your career.
- Qualifications: GCSEs and A-levels in relevant subjects required; enthusiasm for science is key.
- Other info: Dynamic apprenticeship with excellent growth opportunities in a supportive environment.
The predicted salary is between 24570 - 24570 £ per year.
Starting base salary of £24,570 + 11% benefits fund + bonus.
At AstraZeneca, we put patients first and strive to meet their unmet needs worldwide. We’re deeply committed to our strategy of being a great place to work, fostering an environment where everyone can be among inclusive, supportive individuals with curious minds. You’ll be backed and encouraged to speak up, ask questions, and share ideas to push the boundaries of science and continuously learn and explore.
As part of our Early Talent Programme, you’ll be involved in projects and learning opportunities that have real impact from day one, helping us to provide life-changing medicine to patients all over the world.
Cambridge is one of the most exciting bioscience hotspots in the world. The Discovery Centre (DISC), located at the heart of the Cambridge Biomedical Campus, is designed to play a central role in our mission to deliver life-changing medicines to patients.
The Functional Genomics department in AstraZeneca’s Centre for Genomics Research helps discover new drug targets by using advanced screening and validation technologies. As a Laboratory Science Apprentice, you’ll learn hands-on lab skills and develop digital skills in data analysis while contributing to next-generation phenotypic screening platforms that identify and validate novel drug targets.
What you’ll do:
- Learn and perform lab experiments: Build skills in cell biology and molecular biology; help develop, optimise, and run cell-based and phenotypic assays.
- Support innovation and optimisation: Keep up to date with new scientific approaches in CRISPR screening, genome engineering, and functional genomics.
- Collaborate and communicate: Work within cross-functional teams, share results clearly, and build networks across different disease areas and scientific disciplines.
Training and Development:
AstraZeneca will sponsor you through your Laboratory Science Degree with one of our university providers – North Eastern University London. The apprenticeship combines working, earning a full-time salary, with fully funded part-time learning (on average 1 day/week). This will give you the opportunity to gain a Level 6 Lab Science degree qualification, just as you would if you went to university full-time, with the advantage of gaining relevant work-life skills.
Skills and Capabilities:
- Enthusiastic individuals who are keen to learn and with a genuine scientific curiosity.
- Able to act independently but also to work and contribute in a team environment.
- Good organisational skills with excellent attention to detail & a proactive approach to problem solving.
- The ability to work on multiple tasks and understanding how to prioritise.
- Excellent verbal and written communication and interpersonal skills.
Entry Requirements:
- Five GCSEs (or equivalent) grades 9 to 5 including Maths, English and Science.
- To have achieved or predicted to achieve a minimum of 104 UCAS points at A-level (grades BBB) with at least one subject being Biology or an equivalent (e.g. BTEC DMM/T-Levels considered).
Open and close dates:
Opening date of advert: 12th January 2026
Closing date of advert: midnight 15th February 2026
Successful candidates will be asked to attend a virtual Assessment Day 18th March 2026. Should you require any reasonable adjustments or accommodations, please let us know on your application.
This is a 3.5-year fixed term contract opportunity. Start date for the apprenticeship programme is 7th September 2026.
AstraZeneca is proud to be ranked as a Top 100 ‘Best Student Employer’ in the UK by HIGHERiN. We welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of characteristics.
Level 6 Laboratory Scientist Degree Apprenticeship – Centre for Genomics Research in Cambridge employer: AstraZeneca
Contact Detail:
AstraZeneca Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Level 6 Laboratory Scientist Degree Apprenticeship – Centre for Genomics Research in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know AstraZeneca! Research their values, projects, and culture. This will help you tailor your conversations during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current employees on LinkedIn or attend industry events. Building relationships can give you insider info and might even lead to a referral, which is always a bonus!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the virtual Assessment Day by practising common interview questions and scenarios related to lab work. Think about how you can demonstrate your enthusiasm and scientific curiosity – they want to see your passion!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining AstraZeneca and ready to take that first step towards an exciting career.
We think you need these skills to ace Level 6 Laboratory Scientist Degree Apprenticeship – Centre for Genomics Research in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Science: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for science shine through! We want to see your genuine curiosity and eagerness to learn. Share any relevant experiences or projects that highlight your interest in laboratory work and genomics.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to fit the role. Highlight skills and experiences that align with the responsibilities mentioned in the job description. This shows us that you’ve done your homework and are genuinely interested in this apprenticeship.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your writing clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read. Avoid jargon unless it’s relevant, and make sure to proofread for any typos or grammatical errors before hitting send!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our official website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and the application process there.
How to prepare for a job interview at AstraZeneca
✨Know Your Science
Brush up on your knowledge of cell biology, molecular biology, and CRISPR-Cas9 techniques. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show your genuine scientific curiosity and enthusiasm for the role.
✨Showcase Your Team Spirit
Prepare examples of how you've successfully worked in teams before. AstraZeneca values collaboration, so demonstrating your ability to communicate and contribute within cross-functional teams will set you apart.
✨Be Proactive and Detail-Oriented
Think of instances where you've taken initiative or solved problems effectively. Highlighting your organisational skills and attention to detail will resonate well with their expectations for a Laboratory Scientist Apprentice.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare insightful questions about the apprenticeship programme and the Centre for Genomics Research. This shows your interest in the role and helps you understand how you can make a positive impact from day one.
