As an Apprentice, you will balance work-based learning with academic studies, applying theoretical knowledge to practical research challenges. Starting with building an understanding of the scientific method you will implement your new skills to contribute to the drug discovery process. You will create solid foundation in the anatomy of the skeletal tissues and the pathobiology of skeletal conditions while supporting research activities aimed at understanding the molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying human diseases.

In the lab you will learn key techniques utilised in early drug discovery including cell and tissue culture of primary cells, molecular biology, flow cytometry, histology and imaging. In addition to classic single cell 2D cultures, you will become familiar with complex in vitro models such as 3D cultures, organoids and organ on a chip, which are increasingly being used within the drug discovery process as they better mimic human physiology, improve translational relevance and enable disease modelling. You will have the opportunity to contribute to the generation of large data sets and to learn bioinformatics tools enabling analysis and visualisation of such data sets. Part of the role will require troubleshooting and optimisation of specific techniques as well as critical thinking. As part of your role, you will maintain accurate and detailed laboratory records in compliance with company standards. A dedicated supervisor and mentor will guide and support you during your time at UCB, making sure you receive all the trainings required for you to work in the lab, analyse and interpret scientific data, prepare and deliver scientific presentations.

As well as working with colleagues within the Resolution of Inflammation Focus Area, the role will also allow interaction with colleagues from other departments allowing a complete understanding of the industry working mode.

By developing your technical and soft skills you will have the opportunity to contribute to advance our early stage drug discovery efforts.

Curiosity and eagerness to learn

Critical thinking and problem solving

Integrity and ethics

Verbal and written communication skills

Candidate Requirements

Skills required

• Good written and oral communication skills
• Ability to deliver assignments to timelines
• Problem solving skills
• Good numerical and IT skills

Personal qualities

• Highly motivated
• Scientific curiosity and will to learn
• Focused and with good attention to detail
• Demonstrates reliability and integrity
• A team worker and considerate to members of team and wider organisation

Training To Be Delivered

Qualification to be delivered: BSc Applied BioScience

Apprenticeship Standard: Level 6 Scientist

Training Provider: University of Kent

Delivery model: 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 UCB

UCB is a global biopharmaceutical company, with a focus on neurology and immunology.

UCB’s ambition is to transform the lives of people living with severe diseases. We focus on neurology and immunology disorders – putting patients at the centre of our world. We are Inspired by Patients,. Driven by Science and are now more than 9000 people in all four corners of the globe.

Our medicines treat millions of people around the world, and we are engaging with patients, their families and healthcare professionals to address their unmet needs. We want to enhance our understanding of disease and the real-life experiences of patients so that our teams can deliver the right drug and the right care to the right patient.

UCB is continuously working to advance science and embrace new knowledge. We are leveraging scientific advances and skills in areas such as genetics, biomarkers and human biology. Patients inspire us to bring them value through cutting-edge science, innovative treatments, and practical solutions – so that they and their carers can get on with their lives.