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Biotechnologist apprenticeships

Biochemists and biomedical scientists > Biotechnologist

Science and research

Biotechnologist apprenticeships - where to start

You can get into this job through

  • a university course
  • an apprenticeship
  • working towards this role


    • University

    You'll usually need a degree in a relevant scientific subject, like: 

    • biotechnology 
    • bioscience 
    • microbiology 
    • biochemistry 
    • chemistry or chemical engineering 
    Employers in sectors like the food and drink industry, will expect you to have some knowledge of the relevant biotechnology specialism. You'll usually need, or be working towards a postgraduate qualification and have several years' experience for a research job.

    You'll usually need 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C), or equivalent, including English, maths and science and 2 or 3 A-Levels, or equivalent, including biology for a degree. You'll need a degree in a relevant subject for postgraduate study. 

    Apprenticeship
    The following degree apprenticeship may be relevant to this role: 

    • Level 6 Laboratory Scientist
    You'll usually need 4 or 5 GCSEs at grades 9 to 4 (A* to C) and A-Levels, or equivalent. 

    Work
    You could start as a lab technician and work your way up by training on the job. For example, on a part-time degree or a degree apprenticeship. 

    Professional and industry bodies
    You may find it useful to join an organisation like the Science Council for professional recognition, training opportunities and to make industry contacts.

    Biotechnologist apprenticeships - what it takes

    Skills and knowledge

    You'll need: 

    • knowledge of biology 
    • to be thorough and pay attention to detail 
    • the ability to work on your own 
    • excellent verbal communication skills
    • maths knowledge 
    • the ability to work well with others 
    • analytical thinking skills
    • knowledge of chemistry including the safe use and disposal of chemicals 
    • to be able to use a computer and the main software packages competently

    Biotechnologist apprenticeships - what you'll do

    Day-to-day tasks

    Your day to day duties will depend on your specialism. In environmental biotechnology, you could: 

    • develop micro-organisms and plants to clean polluted land or water 
    • create alternative renewable sources of energy, like biodiesel 
    • produce environmentally friendly raw materials for industry, like biodegradable plastics from plant starches 
    In industrial biotechnology, you could: 

    • clone and produce enzymes for use in manufacturing food and drink 
    • create biological detergents and dyes for the textiles industry 
    • improve animal feed 
    • develop crops that are more resistant to pests 
    • genetically modify crops to increase productivity
    In medical biotechnology and biotherapeutics, you could: 

    • study human genetics, proteins, antibodies, viruses, plants, fungi and bacteria 
    • research and treat diseases like cancer 
    • develop therapies, vaccines and hormones to treat the cause of diseases 
    • produce medicines using techniques like cell culture and genetic modification
    Working environment
    You could work at a research facility, at a university or in a laboratory. You may need to wear protective clothing.

    Career path and progression - Biotechnologist apprenticeships

    With experience, you could move into scientific journalism, quality assurance management, sales or marketing.

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    • Paid Training
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    • Great career prospects
      Employers think apprentices are 15% more employable than those with other qualifications. In fact, many large employers train their graduates and apprentices together!
    • Learn on the job
      There’s only so much you can learn when you just do a qualification. As an apprentice, you’ll also get to learn on the job - whether that’s designing amazing graphics, chopping vegetables or building engines!

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