At a Glance
- Tasks: Support the development of life-changing medicines through laboratory experiments and analytical techniques.
- Company: Join SGS, the global leader in testing and certification with a commitment to quality and integrity.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous annual leave, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with a focus on innovation and problem-solving.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in the life sciences sector while gaining hands-on experience.
- Qualifications: Currently enrolled in a science degree with completed lab modules and essential analytical skills.
The predicted salary is between 21500 - 24789 £ per year.
We are SGS – the world's leading testing, inspection and certification company. We are recognized as the global benchmark for sustainability, quality and integrity. Our 99,600 employees operate a network of 2,600 offices and laboratories, working together to enable a better, safer and more interconnected world.
SGS’s Life Sciences services support the pharmaceutical, biotech, and healthcare sectors with expert testing, clinical research, auditing, and certification—ensuring product safety, quality, and regulatory compliance from development to market.
Join SGS Deeside and play a key role in supporting the development of life‑changing medicines. We’re looking for a proactive, detail‑driven individual to support analytical method development, formulation projects, and clinical manufacturing activities within a GMP‑regulated environment.
What You’ll Do- Carry out laboratory experiments and document work to the highest quality standards.
- Apply analytical techniques to characterise APIs and drug products.
- Support formulation development, production activities, and clinical trial supply—including packing and labelling tasks.
- Conduct forced degradation and stability studies to drive product understanding.
- Troubleshoot laboratory challenges with sound scientific reasoning.
- Work collaboratively, communicating progress to ensure project success.
- GCSE English Language (4/C+) and Maths (4/C+).
- Currently enrolled on a science degree (Chemistry, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or related) with completed laboratory modules.
- Understanding of chromatographic principles and UV spectroscopy.
- Confident with core lab techniques: volumetric prep, titration, molarity calculations.
- Developing problem‑solving skills with a willingness to learn.
- Basic MS Excel skills for data handling.
- Clear written and verbal communicator with strong attention to accuracy.
At SGS, we believe in rewarding our employees for their hard work and commitment. As part of our team, you would be eligible for a generous annual leave allowance.
Undergraduate Scientist Placement in London employer: SGS
At SGS Deeside, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work culture that fosters collaboration and innovation in the life sciences sector. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through comprehensive training opportunities and a supportive environment where your contributions directly impact the development of life-changing medicines. With competitive salaries and generous annual leave, joining our team means becoming part of a global leader dedicated to sustainability, quality, and integrity.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Undergraduate Scientist Placement in London
✨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 SGS 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 SGS.
✨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 SGS 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 SGS’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 Undergraduate Scientist Placement in London
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 SGS 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 SGS and allows us to plan effectively for your potential contributions.
How to prepare for a job interview at SGS
✨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 SGS 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 SGS. 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 SGS 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 SGS, making us a more attractive candidate for the placement.
