Laboratory Scientist (Chemical Science) Degree Apprentice

About us

High Force Research is an independent CRO / CDMO with the ability to address a wide range of chemistry requirements across multiple industries

We specialise in supporting projects from early stage discovery through; route design and selection, process development, optimisation, scale-up and manufacture.

Established in 1988, we have built a solid reputation recognised for our R&D flexibility and innovative approach to complex and challenging projects.

Our core expertise is in chemical research and development, process optimisation, route design, scale-up and GMP manufacture of small molecules for clinical study. We collaborate with multinationals, start-ups, and discovery groups across academia and industry in synthesising new materials for proof of concept studies. Operating predominantly in the life sciences sector, our interests include pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, synthetic biology, diagnostics and imaging, however, work also extends into other sectors e.g. polymers, semiconductors and fine chemicals.

High Force Research is a contract research and development company based in Bowburn, Durham. We are recruiting for a Laboratory Scientist (Chemical Science) Degree Apprentice working with a world class team within our on-site laboratories as part of the Quality Control (QC) team.

You will be trained to undertake practical analytical and experimental chemistry, using a variety of techniques and equipment, through hands on training in the QC laboratory, led by experienced QC Scientists. This will include interpretation of analytical data, problem solving during investigation work, and reporting results to a high quality standard. Your role, as part of a flexible team, will be to carry out laboratory work by performing QC analysis following approved methods of analysis, alongside your studies.

The academic element is based on distance learning in partnership with Manchester Metropolitan University over a period of 4 years. You will be required to complete academic studies in your own time with an additional benefit of paid study time during the working week as HFR supports your development.

During the apprenticeship, you will be permanently employed by HFR and will gain practical, hands-on experience to supporting the diverse needs of a contract research and manufacturing company which will enhance the theoretical knowledge built through your studies. The company funds your training and you will be paid an apprenticeship wage, which is reviewed as you progress through your studies.

About this course

The Laboratory Scientist (Chemical Science) Degree Apprenticeship has been developed with leading employers to equip graduates with the scientific knowledge and technical skills to start or progress a career in the chemical industry.

An innovative blend of higher education with work-based learning, it rapidly develops apprentices into confident and capable laboratory professionals. Apprentices are primarily taught through tutor-supported online study, with one residential week on campus each year. Taught units are support by work-based projects that focus on the organisation’s business context. This is a four-year course and assessment includes written exams and an end-point assessment.

Entry criteria

Candidates should be 18 years of age or over, have the right of abode or the right to work in the UK to qualify for funding, and have a minimum of 104 UCAS points at A2 (BCC) with one being chemistry. Equivalent qualifications such as BTEC level 3 Extended Diploma, DDM in a scientific discipline is also acceptable.

You must have a good technical aptitude, good communication skills and be a pro-active self-starter who can work as part of a team.

Future Development

Completion of the apprenticeship includes successful graduation with a BSc (Hons) in Chemical Science.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent, Apprenticeship

Salary: From £14,500.00 per year

Benefits:

• Flexitime

Schedule:

• Day shift
• Flexitime
• Monday to Friday

Ability to commute/relocate:

• Durham, DH6 5PF: reliably commute or plan to relocate before starting work (required)

Education:

• A-Level or equivalent (required)

Work Location: One location

Application deadline: 31/05/2023
Expected start date: 29/08/2023