The Level 7 Research Scientist Apprenticeship with MSc in Biosciences is a prestigious and challenging programme that blends academic excellence with real-world experience. Designed for aspiring scientists, this apprenticeship offers the unique opportunity to gain a Master’s degree while working in a cutting-edge research environment. It is ideal for individuals passionate about biological sciences and eager to make a meaningful impact in scientific research, whether in academia, industry, or government sectors.
This apprenticeship is tailored to equip you with the critical thinking, technical expertise, and analytical skills required to innovate in the biosciences sector. You’ll engage with advanced topics such as genomics, microbiology, pharmacology, and molecular biology while working on live research projects alongside experienced scientists.
The integrated approach ensures that you develop both the theoretical knowledge of a Master’s qualification and the hands-on skills essential for senior research roles. With strong emphasis on professional development, this programme is an ideal route for those looking to gain recognised qualifications, enhance their career prospects, and contribute to the advancement of science.
You will need exposure to relevant workplace experience in order to gather evidence that meets the Knowledge, Skills, and Behaviours outlined in the Professional Standard.
While Maths and English Functional Skills are optional, you will need the following qualification to be eligible:
The Level 7 Research Scientist Apprenticeship offers a unique opportunity to earn a Master’s degree in Biosciences (MSc) while gaining hands-on experience in a professional research environment. You'll work alongside experienced scientists on real-world projects in state-of-the-art laboratories, applying academic knowledge to practical challenges. This apprenticeship model provides a financially accessible route into advanced scientific careers, while also building strong industry connections through mentorship and collaboration. Upon completion, you'll be well-positioned for senior roles across sectors such as pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, healthcare, and academia.
During the apprenticeship, you’ll develop a wide range of skills that employers are looking for. You’ll master advanced lab techniques, learn how to analyse complex data using tools like R and Python, and manage your own research projects from start to finish. You’ll also build confidence in problem-solving, critical thinking, and communicating scientific ideas clearly. By the end of the programme, you’ll not only have a Master’s degree but also the practical experience, industry insight, and confidence to take on senior roles and shape the future of biosciences.
Advanced Concepts in Cellular Biology – 20 credits
This module provides you with an in-depth understanding of cellular organisation and functions in both eukaryotic and prokaryotic organisms. You’ll gain hands-on experience with essential laboratory techniques commonly used in cellular biology research.
Diagnostic techniques (optional) – 20 credits
You’ll gain knowledge and understanding of traditional and modern diagnostic chemical and biochemical methods such as proteomics, immunohistochemistry and immunocytochemistry, flow cytometry, real-time PCR, FTIR or NMR. These are valued across a range of industries including healthcare, pharma and biosciences.
Advanced Analytical Science (optional) – 20 credits
This module is an option for those who wish to develop knowledge of the available range of techniques for analysing chemical substances as well as the theoretical background to these. Knowledge of analytical science is valued in a range of other disciplines in science including environmental science, forensics, healthcare, drug development and synthetic chemistry. Analytical scientists work to develop affordable rapid analysis for early diagnosis in disease epidemics such as Covid-19. This module involves both the study of scientific theories of analysis as well as the practical skills involved in collecting accurate and reliable data.
Molecular Biology and Genomics – 20 credits
This module provides an advanced insight into molecular biology and genomics, the foundations of which are used in medical and industrial techniques. You’ll learn the genetic theory and application for all aspects of genomics and how to develop and test well-designed genomic hypotheses.
Toxicology and Environmental Change – 20 credits
This module will use different approaches to allow you to gain an advanced understanding of toxicology, the metabolic processes involved in the metabolism of drugs in the human body and the impact of various toxic compounds on the environment, including human health. You’ll improve your data collection and critical analysis skills and your ability to propose solutions to specific environmental or occupational health problems.
Bioinformatics – 20 credits
This module takes an interdisciplinary approach to introduce you to bioinformatics, combining biological knowledge with computational skills to analyse large biological databases. You’ll learn to use programming languages like R for statistical computing and data visualization while gaining insight into data collection and analysis methods used in genomics and pharmaceutical research.
Preparation for Research – 20 credits
The module will provide you with a valuable skill set required to plan, design, execute and report the findings of a substantial research project. You’ll be supported to postulate research questions, propose hypotheses, obtain ethical authorisation, carry out literature searches, calculate costs of projects and to select appropriate laboratory techniques. As well as the preparation of formal scientific reports, you’ll gain experience of processing and presenting data. You’ll develop skills in leading programmes of research or experimentation to achieve required goals and your confidence in designing processes and procedures which translates science into action will be enhanced as a result.
Dissertation – 60 credits
The Dissertation module will provide the chance to conduct a substantial, original research project, which will develop your skills in time management and production of the project. You will analyse and present your data, drawing justified conclusions based on your work. Opportunity will be given to develop a project of interest with the specialist support of appropriately qualified and experienced staff members, in the University Centre Leeds or in the workplace.
During the third year of your apprenticeship, you will prepare for the End Point Assessment.
You will meet with your Apprenticeship Assessor every 4 weeks, remotely, for approximately one hour. During this session, your assessor will help you gather workplace evidence and link your curriculum learning with the knowledge, skills, and behaviours (KSBs) that make up the apprenticeship standard.
You'll also complete a minimum of six hours of off-the-job training (OTJT) each week. Your Assessor will provide guidance on suitable activities, including applying learning from curriculum sessions, shadowing colleagues, attending webinars, or workplace events.
Curriculum sessions are held weekly at the University Centre, running from September to July (excluding school holidays). These sessions are designed to support your progression through the MSc Biosciences. All learning resources and materials will be accessible online.
This programme is available for either fully remote delivery, or face-to-face learning.
Upon successful completion of this apprenticeship, you will be responsible for managing different streams of work and leading on/designing and carrying out trials of process and procedures and translation of science to action, alongside also designing, developing, implementing and evaluating various changes required by the business.
Job opportunities this apprenticeship may open include:
