Industrial Placement Student Review

Heavily lab focused, conducting a range of experiments and working on data analysis. These experiments form part of a larger project which I work on and am responsible for. Occasional meeting during the week, albeit in some departments you are given a tablet to do these simultaneous to lab work. There is often weekly team meetings and internal conferences held.

I have further developed my existing lab techniques knowledge and have had the opportunity to learn new techniques/principles. I have been exposed to some new statistical and data analysis softwares. I have also had a chance to use automated equipment to help streamline and accelerate data collection.

Yes: I was responsible for my project and doing experiments single handily from early on the placement. However, often I felt there was a lack of autonomy and it tended towards being told to do things, and ideas were shut down without discussion. It was clear the project was heavily tailored to what my supervisor wanted to achieve, rather than encouraging scientific curiosity.

I was given basic guidance from my line manager. However, I strongly did not feel supported throughout. In particular, with academic components of the placement I was given little time to focus on write ups and received unemphatic messages surrounding workload. It felt I was there to 'work' rather than 'learn' so felt the academic nature of the programme was lost.

Generally, I got on well with my team and there were opportunities (COVID permitting) to have team lunches/events. There were also events held by AZinspire, although with high workload I was unable to take advantage of those. I did have a volunteering day, which was a nice gesture and facilitated team bonding.

Personally, I would not go back to AZ. I felt the workload was unrealistic, general lack of support for students and felt my wellbeing suffered (which was brought up with academics from my university). I think with more appreciation and understanding of the dual nature of being a placement student (i.e., typically academic components are intertwined with 'work') would set clearer boundaries and expectations.

No

Ensure university requirements for the placement year are clearly communicated to AZ supervisor and they are willing to provide support. Enthusiasm and passion for science is key for application process. I believe the placement does allow for you to find your feet and interests, and this can help plan career prospects and directions.