Scientist Apprenticeship - UCB
Cogent Ssc Limited · Slough · posted 28 July 2026
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The Resolution of Inflammation Focus Area is a dynamic and multicultural team including experienced scientists ranging from cell to tissue biologists including in vitro and in vivo pharmacologists. Within this Focus Area, the Musculoskeletal Team supports the biology of the early stage drug discovery process of targets relevant to skeletal disorders.
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
Your training
Training for this apprenticeship will be completed online
Where it leads
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.
About Cogent Ssc Limited
As the specialists in skills for science and technology, our purpose is to make sure your business; your people and our industry are future ready. We are a not-for-profit charitable organisation with a family of commercially focused companies committed to supporting the skills, needs and ambitions across the UK science and technology sector.
Skills they're looking for
Entry requirements
- GCSE Min 5 inc. Maths English Science (grade 4/C or above) — essential
- A Level 2 A-levels including Bio+ another science or maths (grade Minimum of 80 UCAS points) — essential
Where you'll work
- 216 Bath Road, Slough, SL1 3WE
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