Laboratory Scientist Apprentice

Immunocore is offering an opportunity for a Laboratory Scientist Apprentice to join our Formulation Development team. This role is designed for a motivated student who wishes to apply the scientific knowledge and practical skills gained through their university degree within a real‑world biotechnology and pharmaceutical environment. Throughout the apprenticeship, the student will progressively develop from performing fundamental laboratory tasks to contributing to advanced experimental studies that directly support the research and development of biotherapeutic medicines.

The role provides structured, hands‑on experience that complements academic learning and enables the apprentice to see how core scientific principles are applied within an industrial and regulated setting. The Laboratory Scientist Apprentice will work on both routine and increasingly complex experiments, with the quality and accuracy of their work directly impacting project outcomes. As confidence and scientific capability grow, the apprentice will take greater ownership of experiments, data analysis, and problem‑solving activities, culminating in a final‑year research project aligned with Immunocore's scientific objectives.

Learning Through Practical Application: A core feature of this role is the direct application of academic learning within the workplace. Concepts introduced during the degree programme – including chemistry, biochemistry, physical chemistry, and analytical science – will be reinforced through day‑to‑day laboratory activities. The apprentice will:

• Apply theoretical knowledge to practical laboratory experiments.
• Develop a strong understanding of how scientific data is generated, analysed, and used to inform decisions.
• Gain experience working within a highly regulated environment where safety, quality, and ethics are paramount.
• Learn how industrial laboratories operate, from experimental planning through to documentation and reporting.

• Perform laboratory experiments safely, accurately, and in compliance with company procedures.
• Apply scientific principles learned at university to real‑world experimental work.
• Maintain high standards of documentation, traceability, and data integrity.
• Analyse, interpret, and present scientific data in written and verbal formats.
• Work both independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Proactively identify problems and contribute to continuous improvement initiatives.
• Adhere to all safety, environmental, quality, and ethical standards.
• Develop an understanding of the business, regulatory, and quality context of pharmaceutical development.

• Apply scientific theory to laboratory experimentation and implement new processes based on literature or expert input.
• Explain and demonstrate laboratory techniques to support technical and scientific projects.
• Apply advanced scientific knowledge relevant to formulation development and biotechnology.
• Work within project management frameworks and contribute effectively to team‑based projects.
• Understand and comply with regulatory, quality, and ethical requirements.
• Analyse, interpret, and present scientific data clearly and confidently.
• Promote quality standards and continuous improvement.

Grade 5 in GCSE Mathematics or equivalent, Grade 4 in GCSE English Language or equivalent.

A-Levels equalling 104 UCAS points, including Chemistry at grade C or above plus an additional Science or Mathematics. Equivalent Level 3 qualifications (e.g., BTEC) will also be considered (with a minimum requirement of 104 UCAS points). This role is suited to a student at the start of their scientific career. Technical expertise is not expected at entry, as full training and development will be provided.

• An exceptional eye for detail and accuracy.
• A strong interest in science and laboratory‑based work.
• Curiosity and an inquisitive mindset.
• Initiative and a willingness to learn.
• Good organisational and time management skills.
• The ability to work responsibly, both independently and within a team.
• Integrity, professionalism, and respect for confidentiality.