University Industrial Placement Studentship (Biopharmaceuticals & Oncology R&D)) Review

My role involved the development and validation of cell-based assays. This involves daily lab activities such as cell culture and banking, reagent prep, dealing with compounds and running cellular and biochemical assays to answer relevant questions. This research generates a lot of data, which means that most time outside of the lab involves some form of data analysis or write-up activities. Other day-to-day activities involve attending and presenting at meetings, whether this be with a team, departmental or specialised group of individuals.

Developed existing presentation and scientific writing skills. Developed primary and secondary research skills. Learnt many new lab techniques including cell culture and running cell-based assays. Built a solid knowledge of life in industry and the activities which people undertake in industrial roles.

Yes, but not enough to cause undue stress. I was often trusted to guide the directions of my research, with guidance form my supervisor, and was trusted to plan and execute my own day-to-day activities. I was expected to prepare slides and presentations to deliver research to teams, managers and wider audiences.

A lot, anything I needed from supervisors or managers was available to me.

Generally, the atmosphere was great.

I absolutely loved my placement experience and felt it was a massively valuable experience.

Yes

Prepare well, ask lots of questions in the interview and show a general interest in your interviewers. Try not to be overpowering in group sessions, but don't fade into the background.