Research Scientist Degree Apprenticeship

Program Overview

The Research Scientist Degree Apprenticeship MRes at Aston University is a three-year part-time program that combines theoretical and practical training in Biosciences research. It aims to develop graduate scientists into skilled researchers, providing mentorship, guidance, and opportunities to conduct original research projects. The program includes four core taught modules and a final research project, and assessment is based on a combination of class tests, coursework, presentations, and practical assessments. Graduates earn an MRes Research Scientist and an apprenticeship certificate, and the program is fully funded with a salary paid throughout the duration of study.

Program Outline

Research Scientist Degree Apprenticeship MRes at Aston University

Degree Overview:

This postgraduate Level 7 apprenticeship program aims to develop graduate scientists into skilled researchers. It provides mentorship and guidance from experts, sharing theoretical and practical knowledge.

Program objectives:

• Enable you to conduct an extensive laboratory-based project in Biosciences.
• Advance your theoretical and practical knowledge within Biosciences research.
• Train you in Biosciences laboratory skills and good laboratory practice.
• Develop transferable skills such as communication, time management, teamwork, and data analysis.
• Equip you with an informed and critical appreciation of scientific developments in Biosciences research.
• Enhance your commercial and leadership skills.

Outline:

• This part-time program spans three years with four core taught modules and a final research project.
• Each module runs for 12 weeks:
• Essential laboratory skills:
Learn and refine practical skills like cell culture, PCR, and ELISA. (2 weeks on-campus)
• Professional research and communication skills:
Hone written and oral communication, present research findings, and publish in peer-reviewed journals.
• Research competency assessment: Evaluation of your research skills, including literature review, experimental design, data analysis, and scientific communication.
• Research project: Conduct original, rigorous research aligned with your employer's industry focus.
Design experiments, analyze results, present findings, and gain experience as an independent researcher.

Assessment:

• Combination of class tests, coursework, presentations, and practical assessments.
• End point assessment (EPA): Professional discussion showcasing your achievements and a presentation demonstrating the impact of your project.

Teaching:

• Blended learning through on-campus and distance learning.
• Short blocks of lectures and online learning via a virtual learning environment offering access to study materials, journals, databases, and more.
• Support from a professional skills coach, an academic, and a professional supervisor.

Careers:

This program can advance your career in research if you already work in bioscience or biomedical laboratories.

Other:

• Aston University offers full access to all facilities available to regular students, including libraries, labs, study spaces, and cafes.
• Entrance requires a professionally recognized bachelor's degree in a STEM subject.
• Government eligibility criteria should be met.
• You will earn a salary while studying, so there is no need for student loans.
• The funding band for this program is £18,000.

You will not have to pay tuition fees as a Degree Apprentice as the cost is met by the UK government and your employer. The funding band for this Degree Apprenticeship is £18,000. This is the full cost of your apprenticeship which may be paid for using your employer's apprenticeship levy, or training and development budget.