Analytical Chemist Review

I really enjoyed my placement year at GSK. The whole department were very supportive and encouraging the entire time. Despite difficult circumstances (and working remotely from home), the support was always there and any team member was always happy for me to reach out to them with any queries. I really felt like I was an integral part of the team, rather than just an industrial placement student. It was a challenging placement year but definitely enjoyable.

Working as an analyst GSK did not feel like placement year at all. I was treated with the same respect and responsibility as any of my other colleagues. No matter your position there, you still feel part of the team. Colleagues at the start of the year end up becoming good friends by the end. They really helped me in making decisions regarding my future career plans, as well as helping with my university work.

My supervisor was amazing. I never felt like I was asking silly questions but did not always just give the answer straight away, rather pointing me in the right direction so that I could work it out for myself. She was always very supportive, even when we were required to work from home. We were in constant contact to ensure everything was okay but still treated me as an equal, not just a placement student.

My level of work fluctuated throughout the year. There were times when I did not have much to do so was seeking work from my team mates. Whereas, other times where I was the perfect level of busy which helped me feel motivated to do my work and learn more. However, when working from home it was more difficult to find work to do, since my job was mostly lab based so at times that was slightly boring. This was more due to the circumstances as my manager was always trying to find me any available work.

There were opportunities to take roles that involved a level of responsibility however, I did not personally take them as they did not align with my goals for the year. I was given responsibility in terms of managing my own work and ensuring I delivered on my timelines - I was never micromanaged by my supervisor, it was up to me to ensure I completed all of work on time. This suited me well as I prefer the independence.

Well the department I worked in was not really an area of chemistry really covered that much at my university, I had only previously done a five credit module on the subject. Therefore, for me it was very beneficial as it gave me an appreciation for another area of chemistry as well as gaining vital knowledge that none of my peers would have. Even my lecturers did not know much about the area so I think it will help me vastly.

The office environment varied. There would be times where the office was very quiet and everyone was working hard. Other times, the office was quite lively. However, the whole time the office was always rather relaxed atmosphere, which suited me well. The office was always full, unlike other departments which had hot desks, we each had our own desk which made it much easier to find people. A lot of meetings occurred online so there was usually a lot of chatter.

Overall, I think my placement was well organised. My supervisor was clear from the start of what my university project would be but obviously we had to adapt as the situation evolved throughout the year. I was able to work on many different projects during my time there which gave me a broad knowledge of the company and the projects currently being worked on. The only negative was that it took a long time for me to be fully trained.

There was a clear plan in terms of my development. From the start there was an interest in what areas I would like to develop through the year and anything else I would like to see. I was given contact details for people who may be able to help me. I was also encourage to attend the various lectures and seminars held at GSK which were really interesting to attend. Especially the ones that were not really related to chemistry as I had no prior knowledge of the subject.

I think future employment prospects within the organisation are very appealing. After speaking to my manager and supervisor, they intend to keep me aware of any vacancies so that I can apply after I graduate. I loved working for the company so even if I decide to go to a different department, I could still see myself working at the company. Many of my colleagues started as industrial placement students so it puts me in good stead.

I lived at home for the year so wasn't really involved much with it but I know that there was a good amount of social events for all the IP students as the community is rather large at my site.

I lived at home so this wasn't really a concern for me.

There are a lot of pubs and bars in the area but not so much any clubs, I think there is only one actual club.

There are many sports clubs run at the gym on site which are easy to join for employees as well as many other activities, such as running the London Marathon.