Laboratory Science Degree Apprentice R&D Review

Item: Laboratory Science Degree Apprentice R&D at Unilever
Rating: 4.9
Author: Anonymous

at Unilever

Degree Apprenticeship

Science

Port Sunlight

Review Submitted: March 2026

Overall Rating

4.9 /5

The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!

5/5 - Overview of Role

5/5 - Skills Development

4.8/5 - Structure and Support

Overview of Role

Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

5/5

I work within Research and Development and this involves formulating and technically assessing Beauty and HomeCare product using analytical techniques in the lab. My current role involves assessing hand dishwash products using analytical lab techniques and then carry out a statistical analysis on my results.

To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

5/5

My role is very varied, and I have the opportunity to move around the business into different roles. I am supported by my mentor, line manager and team who help me to progress through the Apprenticeship. I enjoy my role because of the different opportunities that I have presented to me.

Skills Development

Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

5/5

I have learnt a lot of new skills such as public speaking, presentation skills, data analysis and Good Laboratory Practice and I feel more confident using analytical techniques in the lab, compared to when I started the Apprenticeship. I can see how I have progressed in my development in the time that I have been at Unilever.

Structure and Support

How well organised/structured is your programme?

5/5

My course is structured over a 4 year programme where I have the opportunity to move roles throughout every academic year. There is an apprentice lead for my course who provides support, answers any queries that I have and is responsible for ensuring that I am placed in suitable roles for my skill level.

How much support do you receive from your employer?

5/5

I have an apprentice lead who is responsible overseeing the Laboratory Science Degree Apprentices. I have a manager who oversees the role that I do and a mentor who supports me in my day-to-day role. I feel very supported in my role and if I have any questions, I have a support network that I can reach out to.

How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

5/5

I have a dedicated Skills coach who checks in on me regularly and reviews my progress. We set targets on how I can progress through my role based on the different knowledge, skills and behaviours criteria that I must meet during my apprenticeship.

How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

4/5

My qualification provides me with the background chemical theories behind the work that I do. My job role enables me to see how these theories can be applied to industry.

Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)

5/5

I am part of an Outreach Team where I visit local schools and colleges to raise awareness of the different options students can take beyond school. I promote Unilever apprenticeships and Industrial Placements at career fairs and career talks. My goal is to inspire students to know that there are many paths and career choices beyond school, that doesn't involve the traditional path of going to university full time.

Recommendations & Advice

Would you recommend Unilever to a friend?

Yes

Why?

Unilever is global company and is the manufacturer of many loved brands throughout the role. I receive a lot of support in my role and have the opportunity to take-part in various events. I know that my role contributes to delivering new products to the market.

What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Unilever?

Make sure to research the company fully, know key statistical figures about the company and ensure Unilever's values align with your own. It is good to show that you have a passion for product development and driving sustainable solutions across the business.

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