21 September, 2022

The Department of Physical Sciences welcomed the first cohort of apprentices on the BSc Laboratory Analyst programme as part of the ibec Laboratory Apprenticeship initiative.

This innovative three-year course allows candidates to gain an academic qualification, hands-on experience and on-the-job training in the laboratory. Apprentices spend Monday to Wednesday working with host companies Ornua, Dairygold, Hovione, BioMarin, Carbery and BASF, while Thursdays and Fridays are spent at Bishopstown Campus attending lectures and laboratory practicals.

It also enables employers to expand their talent pool, providing a consistent pipeline of highly motivated employees. Each apprentice is assigned a company-based Industrial Mentor, who plays a vital role in ensuring the required learning outcomes are achieved and that each candidate becomes an effective contributor to the organisation.

Apprentices have settled in well to college life and their new roles, and had the opportunity to get to know their Mentors at a special on-campus 'Meet & Greet' breakfast during their Induction Week.

Feedback so far indicates that the combination of academic theory and work-based learning is a win-win for both companies and apprentices, and plans are already in place for expansion of the programme next year due to increased interest from companies wishing to be involved.

Learn more about Laboratory Apprenticeship here

BSc Laboratory Analyst apprentices pictured with Industry Mentors and Department of Physical Sciences staff at the 'Meet & Greet' breakfast. 

If you feel your organisation could benefit from a collaboration with MTU students, lecturers or researchers email the Extended Campus at extended.campusCork@mtu.ie to explore your options.

Check out our database of case studies, illustrating previous important industry partnerships by clicking here.

Subscribe to our newsletter to keep up to date with all news involving collaborations with external organisations and MTU students, lecturers and researchers: click to subscribe.