BLOG: My Queen's apprenticeship experience – Sarah Lowe
"This apprenticeship offered the ideal balance between structured learning and real-world application, allowing me to build confidence in a professional setting while continuing my education."
A special blog for NI Apprenticeship Week by Sarah Lowe, Apprentice Technician, Future Medicines Institute (FMI).
After completing my A-levels, I knew I wanted to pursue a career in biology. I originally didn’t know if I was going to study pharmacy or would I secure employment for an HLA. After finding out about Future Medicine Institutes, I attended my interview in July 2025 and accepted the job in August 2025.
I was thrilled to have the opportunity to work for Queen's at FMI while also studying at the SRC. I knew I wanted a career path that offered practical, hands-on experience rather than purely academic learning.
This apprenticeship offered the ideal balance between structured learning and real-world application, allowing me to build confidence in a professional setting while continuing my education. For me, this wasn’t just about getting a qualification; it was about starting a career with a strong foundation of practical experience. The chance to learn from highly skilled technicians and researchers at Queen’s has been an incredible opportunity, confirming that choosing an apprenticeship was the best decision for my future.
A typical day as an Apprentice Technician is varied and engaging, especially at FMI, as I rotate between the three FMI labs in the Johnston Cancer Research Centre, the School of Biological Sciences, and the Future Medicines Institute.
My role combines routine laboratory tasks with opportunities to learn advanced techniques. I maintain stock levels and make sure the lab is in good order. This includes cleaning workspaces, emptying bins and bringing waste down to the autoclave. I also support the research team by assisting with experiments.
Recently, I’ve been trained in many biological techniques and the operation of specialised equipment, which has given me exposure to high-end machines used in cutting-edge research. Another area I have been helping with is writing SOPs and COSHH forms to maintain compliance with Queen’s high health and safety standards. Every day brings something new, whether it’s learning a new process, contributing to a project, or improving lab efficiency. This variety keeps the role exciting and ensures I’m constantly developing my skills.
The opportunity to learn from highly educated and experienced professionals is one of the things I enjoy the most. Being surrounded by researchers and technicians who are passionate about their work is inspiring, and I’ve gained so much knowledge from their guidance.
I also appreciate the balance between work and study. Through the SRC, I’ve connected with other HLA apprentices, which creates a sense of community and support. We often share experiences about what we’re learning both in college and in our respective roles, which helps me feel part of something bigger. Working at FMI gives me access to world-class facilities and resources, which makes every day exciting. I feel proud to contribute to research that has a real impact, and the collaborative environment motivates me to keep improving. Overall, the combination of professional development, academic learning, and teamwork makes this apprenticeship incredibly rewarding.
The proudest moment of my apprenticeship experience so far has been successfully carrying out a mycoplasma test. This was a significant milestone for me because it allowed me to build confidence in following a protocol and carrying out essential lab techniques under supervision. I was able to practise pipetting, serial dilutions and gel electrophoresis. I also had the opportunity to work with advanced equipment, including a PCR machine and a high-content imaging system. Seeing the experiment produce clear, reliable results was incredibly rewarding, and it has helped develop the practical skills that will benefit me throughout my career.
If I had to share one snippet of advice to encourage someone to consider an apprenticeship at Queen's, it would be to think about your learning style and career goals. If you’re someone who learns best through hands-on experience, an apprenticeship is an excellent choice. It allows you to gain practical skills while earning a qualification, making you more employable and valuable in the future. Be prepared to work hard and take every opportunity to learn from the professionals around you.
Finally, don’t underestimate the benefits of real-world experience. Working in a professional environment while studying gives you a head start in your career and helps you build confidence. If you’re motivated and eager to learn, an apprenticeship at Queen’s can open doors to exciting opportunities.