University Industrial Placement Student Review

I am assigned to a project within the team that supervises me and within this I am tasked with attending meetings, planning, completing and writing up experiments related to my project, initially being supervised then becoming more independent. I also tasked with balancing my university assignments along side with daily work load, which is valuable in learning time management. Towards the end of the project I also am involved in the data analysis of the experimental data. Mostly on a day-to-day basis most of the tasks are similar to what a standard research scientist would do with additional supervision and teaching to aid skill development.

I would say I have developed and learnt more skills in this year compared to my two years at university, particularly regarding laboratory skills and interpersonal skills. Notably, I have gained skills/experience in sterile tissue culture, immunofluorescence imaging, basic lab calculations and antibody staining among a rage of others. Furthermore, the development in my confidence and communication skills has been very significant, as I am able to now deliver messages and presentations with a clear, direct message to deliver what is needed without any divergence. Also, being able to interact with co-workers to build good working connections, and optimize my input in a team.

I am very thankful for the responsibility I was was given during my placement, as I felt like it really helpful in allowing me to integrate into the team by giving a sense of responsibility, increasing your passion and involvement in the project. Initially, my placement was very guided as I learnt the necessary skills and found my feet in the company, however as I progressed onwards, I was allowed to take on more. For example, once my basic skills where established I was asked to plan experiments and prepare suggestions regarding the next steps in the project. Also I was widely encouraged to get involved in other responsibilities outside of my project, such as mini projects around sustainability, or work within the early careers talent work.

I received a brilliant amount of support while on placement as was assigned two co-supervisors who where passionate and superb mentors. They introduced and all the background work that went into the project. We had regular meeting but where always open to have additional meetings or ad-hoc chats where needed. They encouraged questions, work outside the project to aid personal development and also general conversations around the broader field of science to understand the background. Furthermore, the wider team I was in and early careers team where phenomenal as they always welcomed questions and shadowing opportunities to learn new skills. Also, where always understanding and willing to provide a helping hand within and outside the lab. There was also a real teamwork feel to the departments meaning everyone was approachable and friendly even when they where not in your direct team.

I couldn't rate the company culture and atmosphere any more highly, as coming from academia it was a complete 360. Of course it was an extremely fast paced environment and that comes with some periods of high pressure, however it taught me the skill of prioritization. Work/life balance is highly encouraged within the company along with personal development being valued. It also feels very welcoming, and encouraging of continued learning as you are not judged for a lack of understanding from my perspecive.

My placement has been the highlight of my education experience, and has re-driven my passion to continue in science to a higher level. Being able to work in this setting was very different but I very much enjoyed my project and the science I was working in. Also, my great placement experience was highlighted and driven by the team I was working in as, they are all brilliant scientists with individual passions that come together to provide great science, also always willing to talk about the passions and pathways. It was occasion quite stressful due to university work on top of placement but the support was always there for this.

Yes

I would say learn about the company not just the science, look at there values and drivers not just their science as the why is just as important as the how. Also, in the interviews don't be afraid to show you as they don't expect you to know everything but displaying how you would approach a challenge and how you think about a problem is equally important. Furthermore, I would say go in with a open mind, even if your really unsure of your prospects, it likely has gone better than you think as long as you have put the effort in.