Respiratory Immunology Biology Unit Review

My primary day-to-day laboratory work centred around optimising the culture and CRISPR-mediated knockout conditions for a pathogenic B cell screen, and testing compounds of interest in this assay to support work on a current programme. This allowed me to confidently set up and run assays, from PBMC isolations and cell culture, through to flow cytometry as a fundamental workflow. Following experiments, I had to analyse large data readouts using FlowJo, GraphPad Prism, Excel, and Spotfire for extensive laboratory notebook write-ups. Finally, day-to-day consisted of presenting results and future experiment plans at regular team and project meetings.

I was trusted with the responsibility of running large and complex experiments alongside subsequent data analysis. At GSK, placement students are treated as employees and provided with similar responsibilities both within and out of the laboratory.

I can proficiently carry out laboratory skills including CRISPR, MSD, RNA extraction and cDNA conversion, PCR including TaqMan, and ELISA. Aside from enhancing my specialist skills, adapting to the working environment at GSK has allowed me to focus on my organisation and time management, my critical thinking and problem solving, and both my leadership and the ability to work within a team.

This year in industry has proven to be an incredible experience where I have not only developed knowledge and skills but have met so many talented scientists who positively influenced me personally and professionally. My supervisors provided their undivided support and guidance throughout my year at GSK, giving up their time to ensure that I received consistent laboratory exposure and development opportunities.

GSK is a global biopharmaceutical organisation recognised for uniting science, technology, and talent. The company poses an unwavering commitment to developing innovative solutions that will impact health worldwide, with an overarching mission to get ahead of disease together. The atmosphere was welcoming and supportive, providng an insightful and influential experience in which I have had the pleasure of working alongside so many talented and inspirational individuals.

My Industrial Placement at GSK has been an incredibly rewarding year, in which I have developed both professionally and personally. This year was an amazing experience and provided me with opportunities to elaborate on transferrable skills. I am indefinitely grateful for the opportunity GSK have provided, and I have thoroughly enjoyed working in an environment surrounded by passionate people and eye-opening experiences.

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