At a Glance
- Tasks: Prepare and analyse samples for vital food safety research projects.
- Company: Fera Science, dedicated to making the world healthier and safer.
- Benefits: 25 days holiday, flexible hours, on-site gym, and volunteering opportunities.
- Other info: Inclusive workplace with excellent career development and support.
- Why this job: Join a mission-driven team and contribute to sustainable solutions for future generations.
- Qualifications: Chemistry-related degree and a passion for sustainability.
The predicted salary is between 25000 - 32000 £ per year.
Fera Science is on the lookout for talented graduates to join us in 2026 to make an invaluable contribution to our Food Safety & Biosecurity! As a graduate, you will begin your career as an assistant scientist where you will work closely with the scientists and technical specialists in your area, preparing and extracting samples from various sources for chemical analysis to provide both qualitative and quantitative information on chemicals present, contributing to vital commercial research projects on food safety. Possible areas of expertise include chemical safety, environmental fate, ecotoxicology, pesticides, authenticity, formulations, veterinary medicines, contaminants, and packaging.
What you'll be doing:
- Prepare samples ready for analysis using established techniques according to standard operating procedures.
- Extract and clean-up samples in preparation for analysis.
- Be aware of and follow the appropriate quality assurance and safety procedures.
- Be responsible for laboratory facilities (which include daily equipment checks, instrument maintenance and general laboratory housekeeping).
- Support sample prep during busy periods - log samples onto the Laboratory Information Management System (LIMS) and prepare samples when required.
- Operate analytical instrumentation such as HPLC.
What we're looking for:
- Graduates with a keen interest in creating a more sustainable world for generations to come.
- Scientific related qualification, preferably chemistry related.
- Practical IT experience, in particular Microsoft Packages such as Word and Excel.
- Experience of working in a laboratory is desirable, but not essential and we can teach you!
- Ability to keep clear written records.
- Self-motivated and have an ability to develop good working relationships with colleagues and other team members.
- A methodical approach to work and attention to detail is key.
- Experience of operating within a quality system (e.g. UKAS, GLP etc.) would be beneficial.
What’s in it for you?
- Fera Science is situated on a purpose-built site close to the city of York, where our staff enjoy state of the art facilities including an onsite gym, staff restaurant and tranquil gardens for those sunny lunches!
- 25 days’ holiday (rising to 29) with the opportunity to buy extra leave.
- Flexible working hours, on-site gym, restaurant, and free parking.
- The opportunity to take a paid day out of the office, volunteering for our charity partners or a cause of your choice.
- Company matched pension, life assurance, a cycle2work scheme, 15 weeks’ fully paid maternity, adoption and shared parental leave, paternity pay of two weeks…and plenty more.
- Voluntary benefits designed to suit your lifestyle – from discounts on retail and socialising, to health & wellbeing, travel and technology.
- Access to our Employee Network Groups, which represent every strand of diversity and allow colleagues to connect and learn from each other on an open, inclusive platform.
What we hope you’ll do next:
Choose ‘Apply now’ to register your interest. If you have any questions you’d like to ask before registering, you can contact recruitment@fera.co.uk.
We’re an equal opportunity employer, which means we recruit and develop people based on their merit and passion. We’re committed to providing an inclusive, barrier-free recruitment process and working environment for everyone. If you need the job description or application form in an alternative format or if you’d like to discuss other changes or support you might need going forward, please email at recruitment@fera.co.uk and we’ll get back to you.
The Company
At Fera, we’re making the world a better, healthier and safer place. We’re a joint venture partnership between Bridgepoint and Defra and we’re working proactively to protect the world we live in and the food we eat. Our teams are investigating plant and bee health, crop protection and sustainable agriculture. Join us and discover better as you deliver world-class science for the future.
The Benefits
- On-site Gym
- Shopping & Transport Discounts
- Voluntary Benefits to suit your lifestyle
- LTIP/share scheme
Graduate Opportunities Chemistry - Register Your Interest in York employer: FERA
Contact Detail:
FERA Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Graduate Opportunities Chemistry - Register Your Interest in York
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to alumni from your university or connect with professionals in the field on LinkedIn. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insights into the company culture at Fera Science.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by brushing up on your technical knowledge and understanding of food safety and biosecurity. We recommend practising common interview questions and having examples ready that showcase your skills and passion for chemistry.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of a follow-up! After an interview, send a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It shows your enthusiasm and keeps you fresh in their minds.
✨Tip Number 4
Make sure to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about Fera Science and what we stand for.
We think you need these skills to ace Graduate Opportunities Chemistry - Register Your Interest in York
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for chemistry and food safety shine through! We want to see how your interests align with our mission at Fera Science, so don’t hold back on sharing what excites you about this field.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight relevant experiences and skills that match the job description. We’re looking for graduates with a scientific background, so emphasise any coursework or projects related to chemistry or laboratory work.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your written application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon unless it’s relevant. We appreciate a methodical approach, so structure your application logically to make it easy for us to read.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, if you have any questions, feel free to reach out via email before applying – we’re here to help!
How to prepare for a job interview at FERA
✨Know Your Chemistry Basics
Brush up on your chemistry knowledge, especially in areas like chemical safety and environmental fate. Be ready to discuss how your academic background relates to the role and any relevant projects you've worked on.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Lab Procedures
Since you'll be preparing samples and following standard operating procedures, it’s a good idea to review common lab techniques. If you have experience with HPLC or similar instrumentation, be prepared to talk about it!
✨Show Your Team Spirit
Fera Science values collaboration, so think of examples where you've worked well in a team. Highlight your ability to build relationships and support colleagues, especially during busy periods in the lab.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions about Fera's projects or their approach to food safety and biosecurity. This shows your genuine interest in the company and the role, making you stand out as a candidate.