Analytical Scientist Review

I found working for MSD an enjoyable experience. I had the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities, and this enabled me to build on my skills gained at university. I enjoyed being able to put into practise the knowledge gained in my university course and adding to it. I worked in an analytical science position, which enabled me to both work in the laboratory and office. I enjoyed experiencing both, and particularly enjoyed being able to undertake laboratory work to assist projects being worked on by others in the department.

I felt like a very valued member of the team. I was able to work effectively with my colleagues on a regular basis and was trusted to perform a range of tasks. I felt like one of the team from early on in my placement.

The support I received from my placement supervisor was excellent. My supervisor was very helpful in all areas of my placement and was approachable if I had any questions or queries. Regular meetings were set up to discuss my project work and any requirements my university had. I felt that the guidance my supervisor and management was very good, as they always had time available to help if needed.

Mostly, there was a good balance. The work load was dependent on the types of projects currently being undertaken in the department. I had an individual research project to undertake, which I was able to work on when there was not a large influx of work from elsewhere in the department. As my placement was both laboratory and office based, there was a good balance between the amount of time spent in both areas. Some days were quiet, however this enabled me to work on my individual project more. There was never a day where there was nothing to perform.

I was given a reasonable amount of responsibility. I was trusted to perform sufficient tasks, however I never felt overwhelmed with being required to do something too difficult or challenging. I think I had a good level of responsibility for a student.

The skills will definitely aid me in the future. My knowledge of the pharmaceutical industry has increased tremendously, and I have learned a lot about the work involved in developing new pharmaceutical drugs. I have gained so many skills, ranging from extensive laboratory skills, to presentation, time management and problem solving. These will benefit me enormously in the future, both in my final year at university and in whatever career I pursue after my degree.

The atmosphere was fairly quiet, however that did not make it dull in any way. It was very enjoyable working with the people in my department, as they were all so approachable and social. Regular work outings enabled us to socialise as a team outside of the office, which helped make the general office atmosphere very good.

Very well organised on the whole. The only small downfall was the initial training took a while, however this was not unexpected based on the extent of the training required. There was an excellent structure to what was expected of me, and my individual research project was organised and discussed prior to me starting in my role. This made it easier upon starting, as I knew almost straight away what one area of my work was going to be for the whole year.

There were so many opportunities for training and development offered. A huge variety of training sessions, courses and online resources were provided on a very regular basis. I was encouraged to participate in training I thought would benefit my current or future work. A lot of time and effort was input into my initial training to ensure I was trained effectively and was confident to perform tasks.

Potential employment prospects would be very interesting. MSD would be a good company to work for in the future based on my personal experience during placement, however I am not sure what career path I would like to take at present.

Yes, the student social scene was great. There was a large group of us that got together outside of work to socialise, as well as sitting together during lunch breaks. It was brilliant to have other students in a similar position to spend time with.

As MSD is positioned close to London, it was quite an expensive area, however having a salary coming in made it easier to handle. Rent was expensive, but socialising prices were manageable depending on where I chose to go.

Nightlife in London is excellent, however in the local area there was not too much in terms of clubs. The local area has more of a pub/bar scene, which is personally something I like, however for others that may not be enough.

Yes, there are lots of opportunities in the local community. There is a leisure centre in the nearby area, and with London being in such close proximity there was endless opportunity to take part in various activities.