Associate Study Manager Review

Overall has a fantastic year at GSK, feel very lucky to have worked for such a proffessional, global organisation, and improved my business and commercial skills greatly, which I can apply in future roles.

Very large company, so lots of networking and social opportunities. My immediate colleagues were very supportive and friendly. I worked with people accross the world, and despite the distance felt a good rapport and working relationship with them.

My manager supported me, in helping me experience all sides of the pharma business, not just limited to my day-to-day activities. Was exposed to a lot of aspects of clinical trials during my placement.

Helping to manage and run six clinical trials meant that no day was quiet for me! This made the time fly, and maximised my experience here, even thought the hours are sometimes long. Also got involved in other business initiatives, which allowed me to practice skills in event management, marketing, and training programmes.

I was given a huge amount of responsibility, sometimes being the only study manager for certain countries, at first it is like being thrown into the deep end, but I relished the challenges I faced. I think it was the best way to learn on the job.

The business skills were invaluable. I could also rely on my scientific background to apply in the job too. All these skills will be very important to use in future studies and employment.

In general it was a productive working environment, the offices are open-plan and hot-desking is avaliable. On Fridays the office was very quiet due to lots of people working from home.

We had some glitches in HR with a Contract Resource Organisation, but as far as organising the placement from GSK, this was very well put together.

I was able to attend all the training opportunities availiable to me, to complete my placement experience.

There are various graduate schemes availiable, had lots of careers advice and contacts whilst on placement.

There are a wide range of opportunities to mix and scoiallise with fellow placement students in all departments.

Living and working in London is amazing, although one of the most expensive cities in the world.

A half an hour train into central London, was a great location.

An on-site events team, provided opportunities to get involved in and help co-ordinate, such as a summer boat party, olympics sports day, bbq's, charity days with your departments.