At a Glance
- Tasks: Join a team developing innovative protein-based therapeutics and gain hands-on lab experience.
- Company: UCB, a global biopharmaceutical leader focused on transforming patient lives.
- Benefits: Earn £28,000 per year, enjoy a pension plan, and access employee assistance programmes.
- Other info: Hybrid working available; excellent career growth opportunities in a dynamic lab setting.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in science while earning and learning in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Must hold a bachelor's degree in relevant scientific fields.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 28000 £ per year.
UCB are currently looking for highly motivated scientists to join the CMC Development Sciences department at UCB’s UK Research and Development Hub in Slough. Working within Biologics Process Sciences you will be part of a team of scientists developing processes for the production of novel protein-based therapeutics for areas of unmet patient need.
Qualification Requirements
- You must be a graduate with a bachelor's degree in one of the following subjects: Biotechnology, Biology/Biological Science, Chemical/Biochemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Science, Genetics.
Salary - £28,000 per annum
Benefits:
- Pension - Employee 5%, Employer 3%
- Employee assistance programme
- Onsite parking
- Onsite Canteen
- Paid sick leave
- Days off for volunteering
- Employee recognition / awards
Location - 208 Bath Rd, Slough SL1 3WE until mid 2027 where UCB will move to new site Sunninghill Road, Windlesham, Surrey, GU20 6PP
Working Hours - Monday to Friday, 09:00am – 17:30pm with a 1 hour unpaid lunch break. 10 – 4 core working hours and making up the remaining time either side of these hours. UCB offers hybrid working. This is a lab-based role requiring the majority of time onsite.
Duration - 12 months
Start Date - As soon as possible
Interview Date - As soon as possible
Closing Date for Applications - 11th June 2026
To Apply - To apply, please click the Apply Now button and complete the form. If you are having difficulty in completing this, please contact recruitment on recruitment@cogentskills.com for assistance.
Next Steps - Successful candidates will be progressed to a one-way video interview, invites will be sent via email. The video interview will be reviewed by the Hiring Manager.
Job Description - The candidate will work in a team environment, collaborating with various process scientists (upstream and downstream) and analytical scientists. The successful candidate will utilize knowledge in biochemical engineering, chemical engineering, biochemistry, biotechnology, molecular biology and cellular metabolism to aid in process development and optimization of early stage clinical projects, process troubleshooting investigations, evaluation of cellular responses to process operations, assessment of effects on product quality, and determination of process scalability.
The position is laboratory based and will involve experimentation with bench-scale bioreactors (primarily 250mL single use), 200L single use bioreactors and associated disk stack centrifugation and pilot scale equipment. The candidate will apply Quality by Design (QbD) principles utilizing Design of Experiment (DoE) methodology and be responsible for some planning of activities, analyzing laboratory data and reporting back to project leader/line manager and team members on a regular basis. The candidate will produce accurate, traceable records of work, generating documentation for experimental reports to support technology transfer and regulatory filings (Development and Technical Report writing in English).
The candidate will also be expected to contribute to scientific development and technology development projects requiring innovative research, in order to improve USP and primary recovery processes and understanding. The candidate will be a proactive individual, able to demonstrate problem-solving skills and have the ability to manage multiple tasks, with excellent communication skills.
Personal Qualities
- Ability to communicate openly and honestly
- Good record keeping and organisational skills
- Team player
- Great organisational skills and attention to detail
Things To Be Considered - Please ensure that you are willing and able to live within commutable distance of the company site before applying. This placement is located in Slough.
About UCB - UCB is a global biopharmaceutical company, with a focus on neurology and immunology. UCB’s ambition is to transform the lives of people living with severe diseases. We focus on neurology and immunology disorders – putting patients at the centre of our world. We are Inspired by Patients. Driven by Science and are now more than 9000 people in all four corners of the globe. Our medicines treat millions of people around the world, and we are engaging with patients, their families and healthcare professionals to address their unmet needs.
Science Apprenticeships: Earn While You Learn in the UK in Surrey employer: Pfizer Limited
Pfizer Limited is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity for aspiring professionals to kickstart their careers in a supportive and innovative environment. Located in Sandwich, Kent, the company fosters a collaborative work culture that prioritises employee growth through hands-on experience and comprehensive training in procurement and finance. With a commitment to developing future talent, Pfizer provides apprentices with valuable skills and insights, making it an ideal place for meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Science Apprenticeships: Earn While You Learn in the UK in Surrey
✨Join Industry-specific Groups
Get yourself involved in biotechnology forums and local groups, like those on LinkedIn or BioTech X. These platforms are buzzing with opportunities and can help you meet industry professionals who might just know about apprenticeship openings at companies like Pfizer Limited.
✨Attend Conferences and Workshops
Keep an eye out for biotechnology conferences and workshops in your area. Not only do they offer amazing networking opportunities, but they’re also perfect for learning about the latest trends and innovations in the field. Chat up professionals there; they might have leads on apprenticeship roles.
✨Utilise University Resources
If you're still at uni, tap into your career service for support! They often have partnerships with companies looking for apprentices, and they can help you prep for interviews specifically in the biotechnology sector.
✨Stay Visible Online
Showcase your passion for biotechnology on platforms like ResearchGate or your own blog. Post about your projects and insights; it helps you stand out to potential employers, including Pfizer Limited, and keeps you top-of-mind when they look for apprenticeships.
We think you need these skills to ace Science Apprenticeships: Earn While You Learn in the UK in Surrey
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Science Skills:In the world of biotechnology, we want to see your scientific side shine! Make sure you highlight any relevant coursework or lab experience in your CV. If you have hands-on experience with biotechnological techniques or tools, don’t hold back – those details will really make your application pop!
Nail That Cover Letter with Passion:Since this is an apprenticeship, let's focus on your motivation and eagerness to learn. In your cover letter, share why you're stoked about biotech and how you see yourself growing in this field. We're looking for passion just as much as experience!
Highlight Certifications and Projects:If you've completed any relevant certifications or projects related to biotechnology, make sure to include those in your application. This could be anything from courses in genetics to group projects in microbiology – they showcase your commitment to the field and your willingness to learn more.
Tailor Everything to Pfizer Limited:Do a bit of research on Pfizer Limited and personalise your application so it feels like you’re speaking directly to us. Mention any specific areas of biotech that excite you about our company. This shows you’ve put in the effort and are genuinely interested in what we do!
How to prepare for a job interview at Pfizer Limited
✨Know Your Biotech Basics
For a biotechnology apprenticeship, it's crucial to brush up on the fundamentals of biology and chemistry. Be prepared to talk through techniques and processes relevant to the field, like PCR, gel electrophoresis, or CRISPR. We want to see you can hold your own with the basics and express enthusiasm about learning more advanced concepts!
✨Showcase Your Practical Experience
If you've had any lab experience – even as part of your coursework – make sure you highlight it. Discuss any projects you've worked on or tools you've used. We love seeing hands-on skills that make you a step ahead and show you can contribute right away. Don't forget to mention safety protocols, as they're crucial in a lab environment.
✨Learn About Current Biotech Trends
Familiarise yourself with emerging trends and technologies in biotechnology—this could include topics like gene therapy, synthetic biology, or bioinformatics. Being able to discuss these will demonstrate your genuine interest in the field and show that you’re keeping up with the industry. It's a great way to impress your potential employers at Pfizer Limited!
✨Emphasise Your Learning Mindset
As this is an apprenticeship, we’re keen to know how keen you are on learning new things! Prepare to discuss how you tackle challenges and what you enjoy doing when faced with new information. Show that you're ready to soak up knowledge and just how motivated you are to develop in this role at Pfizer Limited. Enthusiasm can be just as important as experience!
