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Healthcare Science Laboratory Technician Apprentice

Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust · Cambridge · posted 29 July 2026

Wage
£16,258 a year
Hours
37.5 hours a week
Duration
2 Years 3 Months
Level
Advanced (Level 3)
Standard
Laboratory technician (level 3)
Starts
28 September 2026
Closing date
14 August 2026
Positions
2

Apply on the official government service →No Apprentice League account needed — we never gate applications.

  • To assist with the day-to-day laboratory processes e.g., maintaining laboratory instruments, logs etc. using standard operating procedures
  • To assist with day-to-day housekeeping within the laboratory
  • Collect samples from main pathology and GP specimen reception, clinics and wards as appropriate in a timely manner
  • Requisition entry of samples in Beaker following local SOP
  • Use laboratory information system (LIMS) to record sample storage after analysis
  • Scan sample request cards and other associated paperwork into LIMS
  • Carry out routine laboratory maintenance: cleaning centrifuges, defrosting freezers, cleaning water baths, etc.
  • Carry out pre-analytical sample preparation as appropriate
  • Under supervision and where commensurate with role, carry out analytical processes using standard operating procedures
  • Under supervision, set up and carry out routine maintenance on laboratory analysers
  • Follow all health and safety procedures throughout
  • Assist in reagent stock management
  • Preparation of buffers and reagents
  • Cleaning and maintenance of pipettes
  • Record stock requirements, deliveries and maintain storeroom
  • Maintain clear, full and accurate records of work carried out
  • Liaise with senior staff concerning problems that may arise
  • Assist in the maintenance of general laboratory records and filing systems
  • Actively participate and contribute to laboratory staff meetings

Your training

  • Come and join us and be supported to earn as you learn whilst undertaking a nationally recognised qualification
  • You will study a Laboratory Technician Level 3 Apprenticeship
  • You will have regular online sessions with the training provider
  • Additional training will be given in the workplace

Where it leads

Towards the end of the apprenticeship contract, and with support from the department and a dedicated apprenticeship team, you will have gained the knowledge and experience to enable you to apply for your next step in employment. We have a high percentage of previous apprentices who have successfully gained permanent employment with us and have gone on to do the Biomedical Science Degree (Level 6) Apprenticeship.

About Cambridge University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust

Cambridge University Hospitals (CUH) NHS Foundation Trust comprises Addenbrooke’s Hospital and the Rosie Hospital in Cambridge. With over 13,000 staff and over 1100 beds the priorities of the Trust focus on a quality service which is all about people – patients, staff and partners. Recognised as providing ‘outstanding’ care to our patients and rated ‘Good’ overall by the Care Quality Commissioner, is testament to the skill and dedication of the people who work here. CUH’s values – Together- safe, kind, excellent – are at the heart of patient care, defining the way all staff work and behave. The Trust provides accessible high-quality healthcare for the local people of Cambridge, together with specialist services, dealing with rare or complex conditions for a regional, national and international population. 

Things to consider

We are looking to start a new cohort of science apprentices in East Genomics (Cambridge Genomics Laboratory).

Skills they're looking for

Communication skillsIT skillsAttention to detailOrganisation skillsTeam workingEnthusiasmPositive work ethicKeen to learnAdaptable to changeMotivatedFlexiblePunctualAbility to prioritise workloadAbility to meet deadlinesDesire to work in a laboratoryUnderstand confidentiality

Entry requirements

  • GCSE English (or equivalent) (grade 4/C or above) — essential
  • GCSE Maths (or equivalent) (grade 4/C or above) — essential
  • GCSE Science (or equivalent) (grade 4/C or above) — essential

Where you'll work

  • Addenbrookes Hospital, Hills Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB2 0QQ

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