Higher Level Apprentice – Lab Technician, QUB
- Posted by Fearghal Quinn
- Posted in Careers Blog
The Future Medicines Institute (FMI), based at Queen’s University Belfast, is a new research hub co-founded by leading pharmaceutical, diagnostics, and health analytics companies alongside QUB and Ulster University. It focuses on innovative solutions in precision medicine, novel therapeutics, advanced diagnostics, and healthcare technologies.
As a Higher-Level Apprentice – Laboratory Technician at FMI, you will support cutting-edge research by assisting scientists and industry partners. The role offers hands-on lab experience within a multidisciplinary team, fostering practical skills in experimental methods and emerging technologies.
The two-year apprenticeship combines four days of practical training at FMI with one day of academic study per week at Southern Regional College (SRC), where you will pursue a Foundation Degree in Applied Science (Analytical or Bioscience Pathway). The programme includes structured training, mentoring, and professional development.
Successful apprentices may progress into full-time Technician roles at QUB, depending on performance and role availability.
Start date is 1 September 2026.
About the person:
The successful candidate must have, and your application should clearly demonstrate that you meet the following essential criteria:
- Minimum of 1 A-Level in a science subject at grades A*-C (e.g. Chemistry, Biology, Physics, Maths, Health & Life Sciences), or relevant Level 3 BTEC/OCR qualifications, or ADAL: Access Diploma which contains an approved science module.
- Applicants must have attained a minimum of 48 UCAS points achieved through the completion of A Levels, National Awards, Access Diplomas or other alternative approved level 3 qualifications.
- At least 5 GCSEs at grades A*-C (9-4), or equivalent, including Maths, English, and a Science.
- Must be 18 years or older by 1st July 2026.
- Genuine interest and foundational knowledge in the subject area.
- Basic understanding of health and safety regulations.
To be successful at shortlisting stage, please ensure you clearly evidence in your application how you meet the essential and, where applicable, desirable criteria listed in the Candidate Information.
Fixed term contract posts are available for the stated period in the first instance but in particular circumstances may be renewed or made permanent subject to availability of funding.
What we offer:
Beyond a competitive salary, the University offers an attractive benefits package including a holiday entitlement of up to 8.4 weeks a year, pension schemes and development opportunities. We support staff wellbeing with flexible working options, work-life balance initiatives and support for physical and mental health. You can find more detail on all of this and more at https://www.qub.ac.uk/directorates/HumanResources/pay-reward-and-benefits/
Queen’s University is committed to promoting equality of opportunity to all. We subscribe to Equality Charter Marks such as the Diversity Charter Mark NI and Athena Swan and have established staff networks such as iRise (Black, Asian, Minority Ethnic and International Staff Network) and PRISM (LGBTQ+) which help us progress equality. For further information on our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, please visit www.qub.ac.uk/diversity.
Application closing date: 06/04/2026
Salary: £28,133 per annum
Click here for further details and application
