Engineering Intern Review

I work on solo R&D projects relating to superconductivity. I design and perform these experiments myself, but some interns are working in a team on more complex projects. I also have some programming tasks, which are mostly data analysis in python or Matlab.

I have learned a great deal of programming techniques, especially in AI and Matlab. I started knowing very little about MRIs or superconductors, and am now confident when purchasing superconductors and talking with professionals about the technology. My experimental design has improved, and I have learned a lot about electronic metrology (thermocouples, gaussmeters etc.). Soft skills like delivering presentations and communicating technical ideas have also been developed.

I was given full ownership over the projects I worked on, but the projects are future-proofing R&D work so there is little time pressure for getting them finished. I had to design all experiments, circuits, jigs etc. myself, and purchase the required parts. The coding projects were more guided, with a short informal meeting with someone every few days where I was given a few concrete goals for the next few days.

As much as I asked for. The company gave me a short brief for my projects and left me to complete them, but I could ask for help from anyone at any point and everyone was more than willing to discuss and offer advice. This was one of the best parts about working here: all employees are passionate and are more than happy to discuss what they do.

The company has seemed very friendly and relaxed, at least for the interns. The work we are given is difficult and requires significant effort, but I haven't had to work to a deadline or been forced to work overtime. Everyone seems passionate and friendly, even the big scary welders :)

I've thoroughly enjoyed it. I was lucky enough to get given projects which excited and challenged me, and it was a pleasure to work through them. I have learned a tremendous amount about electromagnetism, MRI and programming, and would gladly work here again. Some of the projects other interns have been assigned sound a bit dull to me though, so I would make sure to let the company know of any areas you want to work in: they have been more than happy to assign projects to people who ask for them.

Yes

Let them know of any specific areas of interest you have before joining, so that you are more likely to get a project you find interesting. Don't be afraid to ask people if you are unsure of anything or are just curious about how a specific process/ concept works: they are more than happy to help. Start looking for accommodation early: it can be difficult to find somewhere, especially for summer internships as most places have a minimum tenancy of 6 months.