Laboratory Scientist (Biology) Review
at GSK
Degree Apprenticeship
Science
Stevenage
Review Submitted: March 2023
Overall Rating
3.5 /5
The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!
3.5/5
-
Overview of Role
4/5
-
Skills Development
2.8/5
-
Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
4/5
A lot of it is confidential, but I currently support projects by performing bulk PCR reactions on samples to send for sequencing and analysis. I incubate and regularly take care of the batch cell cultures in our campaign. My group is part of biopharm discovery, where we deal with antibodies.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
3/5
It's been quite difficult to try and learn all of the different aspects of my role, but I have been enjoying my programme mostly because of how much I am able to contribute to the team. Everyone has been very welcoming and happy to help, so I haven't been too overwhelmed.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
I have learnt a lot of pipetting techniques and how to maintain an aseptic environment, which I had only been introduced to briefly during my A Levels. I've gained a lot of soft skills with this being my first full-time job, making me noticeably more competent at workplace interactions.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
3/5
Whilst I think GSK organises my work well within the company, Manchester Met struggles more with the delivery of purely online modules. I am part of their first biology apprentice intake in this field, so I think there is still some work to be done when considering module structure, though learning has mostly been good so far.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
4/5
GSK has been very accommodating with the time that I need for my studies. We have frequent conversations with out line managers, to ensure that we are not overwhelmed. Although not directly involved with helping with my studies, I've been given plenty of time and support through the people I'm working with.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
2/5
It's more challenging to receive support when all material is delivered online. Work can be confusing, though I commend teachers for their frequency of answering emails and doing all that they can despite the distance learning. I think we could benefit from more 1:1 conversations with our module leaders.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
1/5
So far, not very much at all. The work that I do and the work fulfilled by my modules are, mostly, very separate. My pipetting techniques and use of aseptic techniques has almost completely been strengthened by GSK alone, though I can't fault Manchester Met for this, due to the distance learning.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
4/5
I was surprised at just how many there were. Multiple sports teams after work, many socials being organised in the area, and external scientists will frequently host seminars in the lecture theatre to discuss their work and to network. It's been nice to see that people are so integrated with eachother.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend GSK to a friend?
Yes
Why?
They've been very accommodating to me and I've learnt a lot about the workplace since being there. Actually going into a lab and practicing what you've been taught at school is a great way of finding out what your interests are, and whether you would want to continue in the sector in the future.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to GSK?
Robotic, prepared answers won't get you very far in an interview process. Make sure to present yourself with confidence, and to come into interviews with knowledge and questions about the company. These act as a good, subtle way to demonstrate your interest, without sounding too preachy. Also, the STAR question-answering format has never steered me wrong.
Global Patient Safety and Pharmacovigilance Industrial Placement Student
at GSK
- Placement (10 Months+)
- London
-
4.8
