Research and Development Intern Review

My role involved the design, set-up and support of various projects and trials for instant coffee production. This involved collaboration with team members in the manufacturing plant on-site and with colleagues based in the Netherlands. Within this I supported installations, process design and optimisation of unit processes. Having a factory on the same site meant I had opportunities to work on projects within a manufacturing environment over the course of the year. The placement also involved working with contractors, and understanding how a business translates R&D projects from start to implementation.

The responsibility I had on projects increased as I gained experience over the course of the placement year. Initially I was given smaller projects aimed at expanding my knowledge and gaining familiarity with the structure of R&D projects. By the end of the year I had various opportunities to own the UK R&D side of projects and lead some projects. The level of responsibility was perfect for me to develop key skills with the opportunity to increase my responsibility and own more projects If I needed to.

During my year at JDE I had the opportunity to gain real work using regarding process safety tools including Risk assessments, HAZOPs, and P&IDs. This was supported by some certified workplace health and safety courses. Working within the pilot plant I had the opportunity to expand my process design skills, understanding how theory translates into effective unit design, functional in a real world manufacturing environment. At JDE I had the chance to develop my soft skills including presenting in front of team members, project ownership/management, and contractor interactions.

Support at JDE R&D was always present if asked for. The friendly workplace environment meant I was always able to call on the experience of colleagues to assist with tasks. With my project work a large amount of freedom was given by managers if you were able to demonstrate the ability to complete the work, with their support always available if needed. I also had bi-weekly meetings with my line manger, free to discuss any workplace or personal issues I was having.

Within the Banbury and wider R&D offices there was a welcoming and supportive workplace environment. With 10 other placement students on the Banbury I did not feel isolated as a university student. Outside of work, there were numerous events including badminton, team building days and work dinners. My manager spent time dedicated to my personal development and in ensuring I had as many opportunities as possible to grow over the course of the placement.

I thoroughly enjoyed my placement year at Jacobs Douwe Egberts. I had the perfect level of responsibility, projects and development over the course of the year. This was helped by the support from my manager, team and the welcoming work environment where I never felt isolated as a placement student. I felt that the projects and trials I supported positively contributed to JDE R&D especially the sustainability focus of many projects. I would definitely recommend a placement at JDE R&D within Pilot Plant team.

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