Finding a trainee position – advice and tips

If you have trouble finding a trainee position Make sure your CV stands out for the right reasons Your CV should be: well presented and organised checked for correct spelling tailored to the position you are applying for focused on the benefits you can bring to the role We’ve prepared a useful guide on how to put together a great CV along with links to websites with general advice and CV building tools at:

Get a recommendation If you have a good working relationship with your University tutors, ask them to write you a letter of recommendation A letter of recommendation sent along with job applications can help you get an interview You could also ask your tutor to be a referee included on your CV

Get some work experience in a lab Laboratory work experience is often key to securing a trainee position or employment in a lab Contact your local hospital training lead or lab manager about work experience opportunities Voluntary positions can be a as long as few weeks or several months

And if you can’t get work experience in a lab? Take the opportunity to gain experience of other kinds of work Show potential employers that you have a strong work ethic Gain transferable skills that will be valuable in a lab: communication, organisation, problem solving, ability to take the initiative and team working

Get volunteering Expand your skill set and enhance your CV Volunteer in the wider healthcare community to gain experience of working in a healthcare setting Voluntary roles are sometimes listed on NHS Jobs Your local NHS Trust volunteer coordinator or HR department will know of any local voluntary roles You can also find local volunteering opportunities through Do it! and Volunteering England

Get involved with public engagement Getting involved with public engagement work will develop your transferrable skills and show your enthusiasm for your subject Public engagement work will develop your communication, planning, organisational, teaching, mentoring, and social skills You can find out more at

It can also be a lot of fun!

Join a professional body Joining a professional body is a great way to show commitment to and interest in your subject Joining the IBMS will help you develop your knowledge, skills and experience. IBMS membership gives you access to advice, tips and guidance and connect you to a 20,000 strong network of professionals Join online at

Attend scientific events Scientific and healthcare events offer opportunities to network and show enthusiasm for your subject Attend University scientific society event, IBMS region and branch discussion groups or Congress IBMS Council Member, Sandra Richards recommend that you: “Take a CV or dozen to offer to people. Take peoples’ names; ask if you can visit their lab. You have to get out and network.”

Get started with CPD Getting started with CPD will help you stand out when it comes to job hunting Employers will appreciate your proactive approach to the life-long learning essential for healthcare professionals Take online courses in areas that will add value to your CV. If you can’t find a lab specific course in training, health and safety or quality, IT and other relevant online courses will help you stand out.