Non-clinical Safety Placement Student Review

Daily tasks includes protocol writing, conducting research into primary literature, completing lab work (varied depending on department needs), analysing data, completing data integrity checks on data sheets. Projects vary massively but can include lab work e.g. PCR machine, cell culturing, flow cytometer, or can be more based around research into potential mechanisms for why a certain effect has been seen.

An abundance of courses available on data analysis to public speaking. Many chances to learn industry specific skills e.g. SpotFire programming for data visualization. So many chances for personal development with time allocated for this - CV writing, LinkedIn workshops, Time management seminars etc. My organisation has increased as you must prioritise work to meet deadlines, alongside completing day-to-day tasks. I have learned so many lab techniques through training and practical project work.

GSKs appreciation for placement students is very much clear and valued, evidenced through the responsibilities given to the students. I always felt supported and guided through difficult tasks where mentors and managers pushed me to reach my full potential. The projects I was directly involved with were large, and the work I completed truly made a difference to project teams. I had so much exposure to other departments in the business, representing my department.

Cannot praise my manager and wider team enough for the encouragement, guidance and approachability they showed me - everyone is so keen to help and develop you. I had a placement student buddy, and an onboarding buddy who provided a pastoral care element. Wellbeing services were always available and there are so many different ways to voice concerns or report things. The culture at GSK is transparent and welcoming, with a large feeling of camaraderie.

Pleasantly surprised with how much the impact GSK has on patients is mentioned in meetings - always aware of the value of our work which is special. Charity and fundraising events were run throughout the year. Definitely a feel of being a team and inclusivity - volunteering is encouraged, discounts and access to sports/leisure clubs and lots of virtual social experiences. Mandatory training on diversity, inclusion and speaking up. Commitment to climate change and reducing plastic.

I cannot put into words how much I enjoyed this placement. The work was stimulating and interesting, my team were inclusive and sociable and the company culture always felt welcoming. I always felt that I would be supported in my decisions and with speaking up. I had high expectations with working for GSK due to reading past student reviews, and this placement well exceeded my expectations. I would love to go back to GSK.

Yes

Really understand the core values of GSK as a whole company. Regardless of your past work experience, apply your values to why you would fit into GSK. There is such a focus on patients at GSK - you must be aware of the bigger picture of how our work contributes to society. Be yourself in the assessment centre - your assessors are human themselves!