The life sciences industry develops products through research aimed at improving the health and well-being of both humans and animals. The qualifications required will vary significantly depending on the type of role you want to pursue. Here's a breakdown by area:
Science/Laboratory Roles: Typically, you’ll need a Level 7 or Level 8 degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Microbiology, or related fields. For certain positions, a doctorate may also be required. The level 6 and level 7 Lab apprenticeship are new pathways into Lab roles for more information visit. (inset link
Quality Assurance Roles: A level 7/8 degree, or master’s in chemical, mechanical, process, project, quality, or manufacturing engineering is generally necessary.
Quality Control Roles Depending on the position, you’ll typically need a level7/8 degree, or master’s in chemistry, Biochemistry, Microbiology, or a related field. Relevant lab or science experience may also be acceptable, provided you have a solid understanding of industry regulations.
Clinical Research/Clinical Trials Roles: A level 8 degree, master’s, or PhD in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmacy, Pharmacology, Microbiology, or related fields is usually required. Medical doctors or those with healthcare qualifications (such as nursing) are also in demand for these roles.
Engineering Roles: These generally require a level8 degree or master’s in an engineering discipline such as chemical, mechanical, process, project, automation/instrumentation, calibration, quality, or manufacturing engineering.
Manufacturing/Production Operator Roles: In the past, these roles often didn’t require third-level qualifications, but now, many companies prefer candidates with a level5 or level 6 in a manufacturing discipline. However, requirements can vary between companies.
Validation Roles: Typically, a qualification in mechanical, process, quality, or manufacturing engineering is needed. Alternatively, a background in trades such as pipe welding or fitting, supported by a relevant certificate, may also be acceptable.
Maintenance Roles: A level 8 degree, or master’s in engineering (mechanical, automation, instrumentation, calibration, process, project, quality, or manufacturing) is usually required. For entry-level technician roles, relevant industry experience can sometimes substitute for formal qualifications.
The laboratory apprenticeships are, “earn while you learn” higher certificate and degree programmes that combine paid on the job training with academic study. These two and three-year programmes are suitable for leaving certificate students or those with an equivalent qualification, who have an interest in pursuing a career in science. The laboratory apprenticeships lead to a Level 6 Higher Certificate in Science as a Laboratory Technician and a Level 7 Ordinary Bachelor of Science Degree as a Laboratory Analyst.
Who is the apprenticeship for?
The Laboratory Apprenticeship programmes are suitable for:
Full details on the laboratory apprenticeships can be found here.
Interviews with people working in the sector:
The industry encourages people to return to the workforce.
