Job description and person specification
Summary details
Unit name:
Division/Section:
Job title
*Salary range:
*Band (Grade):
*Contract type (e.g. Open/Fixed term):
*Hours (e.g. full or part time):
Detailed job description
MRC Toxicology Unit
Post-transcriptional Control of Gene Expression
Apprentice – Molecular Biology
£12,000 per annum
Apprenticeship
1 year fixed term
Full Time – 36 hours per week
Overall purpose:
The MRC Toxicology Unit is looking to recruit an apprentice to their laboratory located at the
University of Leicester. This is a unique opportunity to train within an academic environment in
medical research as an apprentice molecular biologist at one of the MRC's well established
scientific laboratories and to obtain a QCF Diploma in Pathology Support.
This is a training opportunity for someone wishing to embark on a career in scientific laboratory
support and would suit an enthusiastic individual with an interest in science and laboratory
work. The successful candidate will receive a broad introduction to work in scientific
laboratories and general laboratory training with an emphasis on molecular biology techniques
including preparation of chemical solutions, extraction of macromolecules, PCR reaction setup,
electrophoresis etc. The post holder will also be expected to perform general laboratory work
and maintenance.
Candidates must be qualified to GCSE or A-level standard in science and maths, the nature of
the work also requires dexterity, precision and attention to detail.
The apprentice will be on a 12 month placement subject to passing an initial 6 month probation
period. Completion of practical (assessment based) training in various areas and of a specified
set of written assignments will lead to a QCF Diploma in Pathology Support.
Main duties / key responsibilities:
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Preparation of standard chemical solutions
Maintaining and propagating cellular cultures
Fractionation of the biological liquids by ultracentrifugation
Protein/nucleic acid extractions
Electrophoretic resolution of macromolecules
PCR reaction setup
Database data entry
Working relationships:
The apprentice will be trained by an experienced senior scientist and will have regular
interactions with scientists and technicians in other laboratories.
Additional information:
The apprentice will take on a full structured apprenticeship programme which will involve an
assessor visiting once every 4 weeks to provide mentoring and coaching throughout the
qualification.
Equality & Diversity
MRC Job description & person specification template v1.0 (Nov10)
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The MRC values the diverse skills and experience of its employees and is committed to
achieving equality of treatment for all. Our objectives are that all individuals shall have equal
opportunities for employment and advancement on the basis of their skills, aptitudes and
abilities. The MRC is committed to the engagement and retention of the best possible talent
and to creating an environment that encourages excellence in scientific research through good
equalities and diversity leadership and management.
Corporate/Local responsibilities & requirements
The job holder must at all times carry out their responsibilities with due regard to the MRC’s:
 Code of Conduct
 Equality and Diversity policy
 Health and Safety policy
 Data Protection and Security policy
Job descriptions should be reviewed on a regular basis and at the annual appraisal.
changes should be made and agreed between the post holder and their manager.
Any
The above lists are not exhaustive and the job holder is required to undertake such duties as
may reasonably be requested within the scope of the post. All employees are required to act
professionally, co-operatively and flexibly in line with the requirements of the post and the
MRC.
Person requirements
Education / Qualifications / Training required:
Essential: Minimum 4 GCSEs (A*-C), including Maths, English & Science.
Desirable: As above but with TWO sciences
Previous work experience required:
Essential: n/a
Desirable:
Any positions of responsibility held.
Any experience of team work.
Any work that required self motivation.
Knowledge and experience:
Essential:
Desirable:
Teamwork
Personal skills/behaviours/qualities:
Essential:
Good communication Skills (both written & spoken).
Manual dexterity.
General enthusiasm.
A strong sense of responsibility.
Desirable:
An interest in biology / natural sciences.
An inquisitive nature.
Ability to use own initiative.
MRC Job description and person specification template v1.0
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