The pathway
How you actually get there, here
How you become one varies far more by country than what one does. This is the UK route. Most people take one of these ways in; the right one depends on where you're starting from.
- 1
Lab Assistant / Technician
0-2 yearsSkills to master
- Basic lab techniques, equipment handling, safety protocols, accurate record-keeping.
You're ready to move on when
- Consistently performs routine lab tasks with high accuracy and minimal supervision.
- Demonstrates a strong understanding of lab safety and GLP principles.
- Proactively identifies and escalates issues, showing good problem-solving instincts.
- 2
Administrative Support / Logistics Coordinator
1-3 yearsSkills to master
- Inventory management, procurement processes, vendor communication, organisational skills.
You're ready to move on when
- Manages complex logistics or inventory systems efficiently and accurately.
- Communicates effectively with suppliers and internal teams.
- Shows initiative in optimising administrative processes.
- 3
Recent Science Graduate (BSc/MSc)
0-1 yearSkills to master
- Application of theoretical knowledge to practical lab settings, understanding of research methodologies, data handling.
You're ready to move on when
- Demonstrates strong academic performance in relevant science subjects.
- Has practical lab experience from university projects or internships.
- Eager to apply scientific understanding in an operational context.