Biology laboratory scientist (SBB) degree apprenticeship- Vertex Pharmaceuticals

This apprenticeship will be based within the Protein Mass Spectrometry team which is part of the Structural Biology department (SBB). In this role, you will learn how to use a technique called mass spectrometry, alongside a range of biochemical assays, to help identify and study proteins. You will contribute to work that characterises protein targets, tracks changes in proteins, and runs experiments to measure how proteins interact with potential drug molecules.

Qualification Requirements

• 5 GCSEs (or equivalent) grade A*-C (4-9) including Maths, English and Science
• A minimum of 80 UCAS points from a minimum of 2 A-level subjects including Biology (or equivalent, e.g. BTEC) and an additional Science or Maths

Salary £20,000 per annum

Benefits

• Holiday Allowance - 28 Days Holiday Allowance, plus Bank Holidays
• Pension - Employee 5%, Employer 3%
• Employee assistance programme
• Onsite parking
• Onsite Canteen
• Days off for volunteering
• Employee recognition awards
• Away days / company parties

Location 86-88 Jubilee Avenue, Milton Park, Abingdon, Oxfordshire, OX14 4RW, UK

Working Hours Monday to Friday, 08:30am – 17:30pm with a 1 hour unpaid lunch break. Flexible hours / working available.

Duration 5 years

Start Date September 2026

Interview Date May 2026

Closing Date for Applications 23rd April 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 Responsibilities

• Prepare for and perform laboratory tasks using the appropriate scientific techniques, procedures and methods relevant to the activities of the laboratory
• Apply knowledge of underlying scientific principles in laboratory-based experimentation and implement new processes according to the literature or input from colleagues
• Demonstrate and explain the principles of laboratory techniques and scientific experimentation to contribute to the development of scientific technical projects
• Develop and apply a theoretical knowledge of the advanced science and technology required to progress in the job role and relevant area of specialism
• Understand the business environment in which the company operates including personal role within the organisation, ethical practice and codes of conduct
• Work safely within a laboratory environment, maintaining excellent housekeeping whilst following appropriate safety, environment and risk management systems
• Promote and ensure the application of quality standards relevant to the workplace
• Work autonomously to analyse, interpret and evaluate scientific data and present the results of laboratory work and problem solving clearly and concisely in written and oral form
• Undertake continuous performance improvement within the scientific and technical environment
• Use creative thinking and problem solving to challenge assumptions, innovate, make new proposals and build on existing ideas
• Plan and prioritise tasks, review and evaluate progress against objectives and investigate alternative scenarios
• Communicate effectively using a full range of skills: speaking to a scientific and non-scientific audience, active listening, professional writing, professional body language, scientific presentation
• Demonstrate reliability, integrity and respect for confidentiality on work related and personal matters, including appropriate use of social media and information systems
• Interact effectively within a wide, multi-disciplinary project team
• Understand the impact of work on others
• Manage time effectively, being able to plan and complete work to schedule
• Able to handle change and respond to change management processes
• Take responsibility for personal development, demonstrating commitment to learning and self-improvement

Candidate Requirements

• Good written and oral communication skills
• Good ability to multitask
• Problem solving skills
• Good numerical and IT skills
• Attention to detail
• Teamworker and considerate to members of team and wider organisation
• Highly motivated and drive to develop oneself
• Demonstrates reliability and integrity
• Enthusiasm

Training To Be Delivered

• Qualification to be delivered: Bioscience BSc
• Apprenticeship Standard: Scientist Apprenticeship level: Level 6
• Training Provider: University of Kent
• Delivery model: The training for this apprenticeship will be delivered online

Future Prospects Upon successful completion of the apprenticeship you will be eligible to apply for other positions within the business. The training will expose the apprentice to a wide range of skills and competencies which would make them well placed for further study or suitable for many job opportunities in the life sciences sector.

Things To Be Considered

• Please ensure that you currently live within or can relocate to a commutable distance of the site
• The individual will be working within a laboratory environment and must therefore adhere to site dress code procedures and personal hygiene standards during testing activities (e.g. correct use of PPE such as laboratory coats and glasses; and removal of all jewellery and make-up upon entry into controlled clean room areas).
• The individual will be required to handle hazardous materials (e.g. chemicals, microorganisms) and so must adhere to the relevant procedures.

About Vertex Pharmaceuticals Vertex is a global biotechnology company that invests in scientific innovation to create transformative medicines for people with serious diseases and conditions. The company has approved therapies for cystic fibrosis, sickle cell disease, transfusion-dependent beta thalassemia and acute pain, and it continues to advance clinical and research programs in these areas. Vertex also has a robust clinical pipeline of investigational therapies across a range of modalities in other serious diseases where it has deep insight into causal human biology.