Research Scientist Review

I was in a great team of people which helped me enjoy the year. Also the work was challenging, but not impossible!

My colleagues treated me just like one of them, though enjoyed making fun of how much of a baby I was compared to them :)

My manager and supervisor were always around to ask questions if needed and were very supportive and helpful.

Some days were quieter than others, but that's the nature of lab work, sometimes you are running around doing 5 things at once making sure everything is timed OK, but sometimes you have a non-lab 'writing up' day. Also depends on what other departments needed us to do.

After an initial period where I was never on my own my colleagues left me and trusted that I was capable to get done what needed to be done safely and effectively.

I think the placement was the first time I realised what all this 'stuff' I'd been learning at uni was actually used in a job. I feel really confident that in my final year research project I will be able to get on straight away without feeling lost in the lab. The extra training GSK provided was also very useful in lab techniques. I can't recommend doing a placement more, it puts things into perspective and helps you gain an broader view of your subject.

My colleagues were great: funny, jokey, but can be serious when necessary as well!

GSK has a lot of students and it is very well organised through a separate organisation. A dedicated contact for any queries within GSK was also an advantage.

Anyone in the labs there would be willing to help you out if needed. Special training courses were put on for the industrial placement students, and there was a great attitude of training the next generation of scientists.

Although I feel like I made a good impression and would be capable of working there in the future, and would have a great reference from my colleagues, I think that the employment prospects are low because they just don't seem to be recruiting many new scientists from what I could tell. In fact there was a cut back while on placement there. I just think it could be the environment of the times. Although there were a few graduate schemes these were in the business sector rather than scientific research and development.

Lots of students there so good to go out with them. My colleagues also enjoyed meeting up for the odd meal on special occasions :)

Lots of discount shops etc! Leisure park again just pretty standard things for cinema etc.

There is a couple of pubs, and one club. However, being so close to London with a great train service until 2am or so means you can have a great night if willing to make an effort.

Quite a lot of stuff going on in the surrounding area if you look hard enough!