At a Glance
- Tasks: Engage in cutting-edge diagnostics and translational research during a transformative 12-week placement.
- Company: Join QIAGEN, a global leader in molecular diagnostics based in Manchester.
- Benefits: Gain hands-on experience, receive stipend support, and enhance your career in healthcare.
- Other info: Placement starts on 19 January 2026; apply by 6 October 2025.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in healthcare while working with top professionals in the field.
- Qualifications: Open to NHS healthcare professionals, PhD students, and project managers with relevant experience.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Overview
NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre (BRC) placements – QIAGEN, Manchester, England, United Kingdom.
About the opportunity
Join QIAGEN in Manchester, a global leader in molecular diagnostics, for a transformative 12-week placement designed to contribute to life-changing advances in healthcare. The Manchester site is a world-leading centre for molecular diagnostic applications, with a focus on companion diagnostics, infectious disease, and oncology. The scheme is offered in partnership with the NIHR Manchester BRC and includes four tailored opportunities.
Placement opportunities
- Diagnostic Assay Development
- Statistics and Data Science
- Clinical Affairs
- Project Management
Open to
- NHS healthcare professionals working in the NIHR Manchester BRC’s partner NHS Trusts, including clinical or biomedical scientists
- Manchester BRC postdoctoral researchers and PhD students interested in diagnostics and translational research
- Manchester BRC project managers
Position requirements
Applicants must have approval from their line manager/supervisor to apply, and successful candidates must be able to begin their placement on 19 January 2026. To support the release of employees for the duration of the 12-week placement, employers will receive backfill funding of up to £6,000 per participant, based on the employee’s current salary. PhD students may integrate the placement into their PhD programme with the agreement of their supervisor, or take a formal study interruption for its duration. In both cases, they will continue to receive their stipend. If a study interruption is taken, the 12-week period will be added to the end of their PhD programme.
Key dates
- Applications open: Monday 1 September 2025
- Application deadline: Monday 6 October 2025 (12.00pm)
- Candidate meetings: Weeks beginning 13 October and 20 October 2025
- Offers made: Monday 3 November 2025
- Placement starts: Monday 19 January 2026
How to apply
Email your CV and cover letter to Lisa Murray, BRC Education and Training Senior Manager at lisa.murray@mft.nhs.uk by 12.00pm on Monday 6 October 2025.
NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre (BRC) placements employer: QIAGEN
At QIAGEN in Manchester, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering innovation and collaboration in the field of molecular diagnostics. Our placements offer healthcare professionals and researchers a unique opportunity to engage in transformative projects that directly impact patient care, all within a supportive work culture that prioritises professional growth and development. With access to cutting-edge resources and a commitment to making improvements in life possible, joining our team means contributing to meaningful advancements in healthcare while enjoying a vibrant and dynamic workplace.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre (BRC) placements
✨Get Stuck into Biotech Events!
Jump into industry-specific events like conferences, workshops, and networking meetups in biotechnology. These are fantastic places to chat with professionals, get insights into current trends, and even meet folks from companies like QIAGEN who might be offering placements.
✨Leverage Your Uni’s Career Services
Don’t forget about your university’s career services! Many have connections with biotech firms and can help you find placement opportunities or set you up for internships. It's a great way to get your foot in the door at QIAGEN.
✨Show Off Your Lab Skills
Whether you’ve done research or had lab experience, make sure to highlight these skills in conversations. Be ready to share specific projects you’ve worked on that relate to what QIAGEN does in the biotech sector—don’t hold back!
✨Apply Early, Apply Often
Placement spots can fill up quickly, so make sure you’re on the ball. Check QIAGEN’s website frequently and apply as soon as you see something that catches your eye. We all know how crucial getting that early application in can be!
We think you need these skills to ace NIHR Manchester Biomedical Research Centre (BRC) placements
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Laboratory Skills!:In the biotech field, it's essential to highlight any lab experience you've had. Make sure to mention specific techniques or equipment you're familiar with on your CV. If you've done any projects, whether in school or elsewhere, don't forget to detail them in your application—this'll really catch our attention!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Your Passion for Biotechnology:When we read your cover letter, we want to feel your enthusiasm for the biotech field! Share why this placement at QIAGEN excites you and how it aligns with your career goals. Talk about what you hope to learn and how you can contribute—show us that you're a passionate and motivated applicant!
Highlight Relevant Coursework and Certifications:Mention any relevant biotech courses, workshops, or certifications you've completed. This will not only show your academic background but also your dedication to the field. Include grades or projects that demonstrate your knowledge, and don't shy away from talking about any team collaborations or problem-solving experiences!
Be Clear About Your Availability:Since this is a placement, make sure you outline your availability in your application. Specify when you're able to start and how many hours you can commit each week. This will help us see how you fit into our schedule at QIAGEN and allows us to plan effectively for your potential contributions.
How to prepare for a job interview at QIAGEN
✨Brush Up on Your Lab Skills
Since we're diving into biotechnology, make sure you’re up to speed with essential lab techniques like PCR, gel electrophoresis, and cell culture. Be prepared to discuss your hands-on experience with these methods, as the interviewers at QIAGEN will likely want to see how well you can apply your knowledge in a practical setting.
✨Know Your Current Trends
Biotechnology is a rapidly evolving field, so it's important to have a grasp of the latest advancements and technologies. Familiarise yourself with recent breakthroughs or ongoing research relevant to QIAGEN. This shows your passion for the field and readiness to contribute to innovative projects during your placement.
✨Show Your Willingness to Learn
As this is a placement, highlight your eagerness to learn new techniques and concepts. Be ready to discuss how you're open to feedback and growth. Interviewers at QIAGEN will appreciate someone who is not just knowledgeable but also adaptable and keen to develop in the field.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions relevant to biotechnology principles. Review basic concepts such as genetic engineering, bioinformatics, and bioprocessing. This will help us demonstrate our understanding of the core principles that drive the work done at QIAGEN, making us a more attractive candidate for the placement.
