About Us

UKRI - UK Research and Innovation UKRI is an organisation that brings together the seven disciplinary research councils, Research England and Innovate UK. Together, we build an independent organisation with a strong voice and vision ensuring the UK maintains its world-leading position in research and innovation.

Supporting some of the world’s most exciting and challenging research projects, we develop and operate some of the most remarkable scientific facilities in the world. We are pushing the frontiers of human knowledge through fundamental research and delivering benefits for UK society and the economy through world-class research, skills and business-led innovation.

Overview:

The MRC Laboratory of Medical Sciences (LMS) has recently established a graduate programme designed to train and develop fresh science graduates into skilled laboratory technicians.

Our 2026 graduate programme will offer aspiring scientists the opportunity to work within our Proteomics and Metabolomics research facilities to develop their technical expertise. In addition, the programme will support the professional development of successful applicants by providing a variety of growth opportunities, including conventions and workshops.

Description of the Post:

In Year 1, the post holder will be assigned to a research facility and work predominantly in that area to learn the methodologies and how the facility is managed. As the year progresses, the post holder will be given the opportunity to work with and in other research facilities to expand their knowledge and practical experience.

In Year 2, the post holder will work on an independent research project within the facility to further develop their technical skills, as well as interact across other facilities to support LMS science outputs.

The post holder will be involved in developing methods/protocols and in implementing methods or efficiency improvements that improve the Institute’s environmental sustainability.

Working relationships:

The post holder will report to the Heads of the Graduate Programme and to the Head of their hosting facility.

Main duties

• To conduct research tasks and laboratory experiments relevant to the work of the hosting research facility.
• To contribute to the work of the facility and outputs of LMS research groups.
• To pilot relevant techniques or adaptations that support environmental sustainability.

Person Specification

Education / Qualifications / Training required (will be assessed from the application form):

Essential:

• BSc in a biological science or related science area (2:1 or above), awarded in 2023 or later, or set to be awarded before August 2026

Knowledge and experience (will be assessed from the application form and at the interview):

Essential:

• Previous experience in a laboratory research environment
• Knowledge of biology, computing, and standard molecular and cellular laboratory techniques
• Knowledge of common software tools (Word, Excel, etc)
• Strong interest in medical, health, and experimental research
• Strong interest in the research fields related to the hosting facility

Personal skills / Behaviours / Qualities and competences (will be assessed at the interview):

Essential:

• Ability to grasp new concepts quickly
• Ability to follow protocols accurately and respect samples and data
• Ability to be organised and work effectively to meet deadlines

Desirable:

• Ability to problem-solve and troubleshoot techniques
• Ability to train and support others
• Highly motivated and highly committed
• Enthusiastic and keen to learn
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills
• Willing to work in a team and be cooperative
• Willingness to work with biological and clinical samples

Other Details:

Applications are welcome from candidates with BSc degrees in: biochemistry, biology, biomedical science, biotechnology, cellular biology, chemistry, computing, engineering, genetics, immunology, mathematics, microbiology, molecular biology, physics and physiology. This list is not exhaustive, so applications from candidates with other biological sciences degrees or degrees in related science areas will also be considered.

How to Apply:

Please upload your most recent CV, evidence of your Bachelor’s degree, contact details of two referees and a completed Science Technology Graduate Programme supporting statement. Incomplete applications will not be considered. For more information about the scheme, please read the Programme Handbook.

Please note:

These posts are not open to candidates who hold a standalone Master’s degree (MSc) or an Integrated Master’s degree (MSci). Applicants should only submit their application once they have uploaded a completed supporting statement and acceptable evidence of their Bachelor's degree, such as a degree certificate or official transcript. Candidates must be available for the in-person interview dates and the programme start date.

Privacy Statement

As part of the application process, submitted applications will be shared with relevant members of LMS and Imperial College London staff for the purposes of assessment and decision-making. All personal data will be processed in accordance with applicable data protection legislation and UKRI’s privacy policies.

Applications submitted without a completed supporting statement will not be considered.

1e127ede32d8f816eacfb0aed73cee11