Undergraduate Industrial Placement Student- Biopharmaceutical R&D Review

My week is typically a 60-40 split between being in the lab and the office, but this fluctuates quite a bit with my work. My project focuses on biochemistry and protein mass spectrometry so my time in the lab will usually be split between preparing my experiments/samples and then doing the mass spectrometry analysis. Any time at my desk is typically spent writing up experiments, attending meetings and data analysis of any results. I also did this placement as part of the Master's year of my degree where my thesis was based on the work I did here, you're able to designate a few hours a week toward university work so this was super helpful as deadlines were approaching.

After initial training and learning how to independently carry out my experiments I was able to drive the direction of my project with my supervisor's input. I also had the opportunity to carry out additional work for 2 project groups throughout my year here which enabled me to generate and present essential data.

Mass spectrometry was a completely new skill to me which I have definitely learnt soo much about during my time here, and was able to get to the point of running independently. I also was able to learn skills that weren't directly related to my project aims such as learning how to run functional biochemical assays and how to conduct cell culture. My year here has made me confident in my ability to plan experiments, thanks to the coaching of my supervisors, and adapt to completely new skillsets. I've also had plenty of opportunities to deliver presentations in departmental, team, and project group settings. As a result, my presentation skills and confidence has developed exponentially.

I received a lot of support from my supervisors. They were very present with me in the lab when I was starting out and once I gained independence they were less present with me in the lab but still provided lot of guidance. Two meetings a week were scheduled to help with planning my week and providing guidance with experiments. However, they were also very happy to meet with me more throughout the week if I needed. They also were great with providing help with my university assignments and providing feedback, which was definitely fundamental in my academic success this year!

Very friendly, many people are very willing to grab a coffee or go for a chat so is great for if you're wanting to network and speak to different people across the organisation.

I highly enjoyed my placement year, I've learnt soo much and grown incredibly as a biochemist. It has also been a great way to meet other like-minded students in my cohort. This is an experience that I know I will continuously refer to as a researcher in my future career.

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