Laboratory Technician Apprentice (Level 3)

The successful candidate will be trained to provide technical support for parasite life-cycle maintenance in the filariasis research laboratory. They will be trained to provide routine technical support in a range of biochemical, and immunological and image-based assays in a scientific laboratory setting where needed.

Key Responsibilities:

Assist with evaluations of candidate therapeutics for filariasis:

• Assist with in vivo infection models to test new therapeutics for filariasis
• Assist in quantifying pathological changes in lymphographic images by software ‘morphometric’ analyses
• Support the research team in running biochemical and immunological assays and support with data analysis
• Stock check and inventory control of all consumables and equipment
• Washing of personnel workwear and lab coats as required
• Management of waste within the facility, ensuring close liaison with LSTM cleaning staff

Support rearing of mosquito colonies and maintaining parasite life cycle:

• Contribute to the smooth running of filariasis mosquito insectaries, including inventory control and weekly stock checks, ensuring good standards of housekeeping are maintained always
• Preparation of routine solutions used in rearing also assist in routine cleaning of the insectaries
• Cleaning of all equipment associated with rearing of mosquitoes including larval trays and adult mosquito cages to approved Standard Operating Procedure
• Provide assistance for maintaining parasite production when needed

General: 

• Prioritise, organise efficiently, work independently under provided guidance and use own initiative to balance a varied and busy workload
• Participate in staff development and training sessions as required to enhance and update skills to maintain an efficient and effective service
• Adhere to local and legal requirements. Undertake personal health and safety responsibilities in accordance with H&S legislation and LSTM’s Health & Safety Policy and procedures
• Any other duties commensurate with the grade and nature of the role
• Promote equality of opportunity and inclusive practice in all aspects of work undertaken
• Act in a manner that safeguards children and/or vulnerable adults as applicable to the role

We are seeking a highly motivated individual with a proven ability to meet tight targets and deadlines, demonstrating meticulous attention to detail and excellent prioritisation skills in a fast-changing environment. You have experience working independently and using your initiative to manage tasks effectively, even in high-pressure situations. 

Your friendly and helpful personality ensures you remain calm and courteous in demanding scenarios, and you are committed to supporting equality, diversity, and inclusive practices. While laboratory experience is desirable, a willingness to work in a hot, humid insectary and with small animal models under Home Office regulations is essential.

Laboratory Technician Level 3 Apprenticeship Standard:

• At Tiro we’re obsessed with changing lives through science and technology apprenticeships so we can’t wait to have you on board
• Over 21 months, you’ll devote a minimum of 6 hours of your working week on ‘off the job’ training
• This can include theory training (for example, virtual lessons & online learning), alongside practical training (for example shadowing, mentoring, & time spent writing assignments
• Together this will count towards a Level 3 Laboratory Technician apprenticeship
• You’ll be trained by an expert tutor from Tiro as well as an experienced mentor at LSTM who together, will make sure you develop the knowledge, skills, and work habits you’ll need to succeed in your career
• Being an apprentice is hands-on, so you’ll get the chance to learn things you might otherwise not have experienced in a university or college environment
• The best part? You’ll be earning a salary while you gain your qualifications, meaning no huge student loans to pay back at the end of the programme

• When you join the Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine the possibilities for your success are limitless
• As a successful applicant, you have the potential to secure a full-time position within the company at the conclusion of your apprenticeship
   
  Through practical training on the job, you can look forward to a range of potential career paths in industries such as manufacturing, construction, engineering, aerospace, automotive, or research and development. There is a growing demand for skilled professionals who can ensure the quality and reliability of materials used in various sectors
   
  This apprenticeship program also serves as a stepping-stone towards a rewarding career in laboratory testing, with the added opportunity for the apprentice to become a registered Science technician (RSci Tech)
   
  This apprenticeship can also help pave the way for further educational and professional advancement such as our Level 6 Bachelor of Science (BSc) Apprenticeship, enabling you to take on more specialised roles or progress into leadership positions