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- Tasks: Gain hands-on experience in a molecular biology lab and support real client testing.
- Company: Join SGS, the global leader in testing, inspection, and certification.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, generous leave, discounts, and health initiatives.
- Other info: Experience excellent career growth opportunities in a supportive team.
- Why this job: Kick-start your scientific career with practical skills in a fast-paced environment.
- Qualifications: Ideal for students in Biology, Molecular Biology, or related fields.
The predicted salary is between 19747 - 23132 £ per year.
We are SGS – the world’s leading testing, inspection and certification company. Our brand promise – when you need to be sure – underscores our commitment to trust, integrity and reliability. 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.
Role: Undergraduate Laboratory Assistant Placement
Job Type: 12 months temporary contract (This role is for undergraduate students, looking for a one year industry placement)
Location: Glasgow
Hours: 35 hours, Monday to Friday
Salary: £19,747- £23,132 (salary dependent on minimum wage for age group)
Industry: Life Science
Kick-start your scientific career with hands-on experience in a real molecular biology environment. Are you an undergraduate looking for a placement that will genuinely develop your scientific and laboratory skills? Join us for 12 months and become a key part of our Molecular Biology team, supporting real client testing, preparing essential reagents, and learning how a high-quality GMP/GLP laboratory operates.
What you’ll be doing:
- Maintaining clean, organised, and fully stocked molecular biology laboratories
- Preparing key reagents, including primers, probes, HP DNA/RNA, buffers, nuclease‑free water and mastermix
- Supporting daily lab operations such as fridge/freezer checks, defrosts, and Virkon preparation
- Assisting with documentation, SOP updates, and reagent expiry management
- Working safely and accurately within GLP/GMP‑compliant processes
- Gaining exposure to PCR workflows, including preparation of positive controls and bioanalytical buffers
Why this placement is valuable:
- Working inside a regulated, fast‑paced molecular biology laboratory
- Developing practical skills relevant to PCR and bioanalytical testing
- Understanding the importance of contamination control in pharmaceutical testing
- Becoming confident in laboratory organisation, compliance, and quality systems
Qualifications:
This placement is ideal for students studying Biology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biomedical Science, or related degrees.
What you’ll bring:
- A proactive, positive attitude
- Strong organisation and attention to detail
- Good communication skills
- Genuine interest in laboratory work and developing new skills
- School-level Biology or Chemistry (Standard Grades or Higher)
Additional Information:
- Generous Annual Leave allowance, plus bank holidays
- Retailer Discounts
- Christmas Vouchers
- Health & Wellbeing initiatives
- An additional day off for your birthday
- Discounted Gym Membership
SGS is an Equal Opportunity Employer, and as such, we recruit, hire, train, and promote persons in all job classifications without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, national origin, disability, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetics, status as a protected veteran, or any other characteristics protected by law.
APPLY NOW for full consideration, if you are selected for an interview, or further consideration, we will be in touch with you directly.
Undergraduate Laboratory Assistant Placement in Glasgow employer: TargetJobs UK
Contact Detail:
TargetJobs UK Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Undergraduate Laboratory Assistant Placement in Glasgow
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your university's career services or professors who might have connections in the industry. They can help you get your foot in the door and might even know about openings before they're advertised.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for those interviews! Research SGS and understand their values, especially around sustainability and quality. Be ready to discuss how your skills align with their mission and what you can bring to the Molecular Biology team.
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your passion for lab work! During interviews, share specific examples of your hands-on experience or projects related to molecular biology. This will demonstrate your genuine interest and commitment to the field.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining SGS and taking that next step in your scientific career.
We think you need these skills to ace Undergraduate Laboratory Assistant Placement in Glasgow
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that are relevant to the Undergraduate Laboratory Assistant role. Highlight any lab work, coursework, or projects that showcase your interest in molecular biology and attention to detail.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your genuine interest in the placement and how it aligns with your career goals. Don’t forget to mention why you’re excited about working at SGS and what you can bring to the team.
Showcase Your Skills: In both your CV and cover letter, be sure to highlight your organisation skills and proactive attitude. Mention any relevant lab techniques or experiences, especially those related to PCR workflows or compliance with GLP/GMP processes.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for the best chance of being considered. It’s straightforward and ensures your application goes straight to us, so we can review it promptly!
How to prepare for a job interview at TargetJobs UK
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your molecular biology basics and any relevant lab techniques. Familiarise yourself with PCR workflows and the importance of GLP/GMP compliance. This will show that you're genuinely interested and prepared for the role.
✨Show Your Enthusiasm
During the interview, let your passion for laboratory work shine through. Talk about any relevant projects or experiences you've had, and express your eagerness to learn and grow in a real-world lab environment. A positive attitude can go a long way!
✨Ask Smart Questions
Prepare some thoughtful questions about the team, the lab's operations, or the specific projects you'll be involved in. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the placement is the right fit for you.
✨Demonstrate Your Organisation Skills
Since the role involves maintaining a clean and organised lab, be ready to discuss how you manage your time and tasks effectively. Share examples from your studies or previous experiences where you successfully kept things organised under pressure.