Technician II Review
at Charles River
Higher Level Apprenticeship
Science
Harlow
Review Submitted: March 2023
Overall Rating
4.3 /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!
4/5
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Overview of Role
4/5
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Skills Development
4/5
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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
In my day to day role I run biochemical screening assays to test inhibitors activity against their selected targets, which i then analyze using in house software to collect IC50's. Another aspect of my daily role is to order reagents and keep up to date with writing my lab notebooks to adhere to the quality policys.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
4/5
I thoroughly enjoy my programme as it allows me to develop my skill set and also learn new techniques regularly. I also love that i am able to drive my own development and highlight areas that i personally would like to gain more experience in, e.g . new tecnhiques or presenting.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
During my apprenticeship i have learnt several drug development screening techniques. Specifically in my top up degree i have learnt how to develop enzyme kinetic assays and manipulate reagent concentrations to get a robust assay format in place. I have also learnt how to engage with clients and communicate well with collegues.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
The programmes is well organised, as it runs through kent and the company. With the uni side of the job the advisors regularly catch up with you to make sure you are on track for your end of year goals and exams. In terms of the on the job role the mentors and managers work well together to give a rounded experience.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
4/5
My manager supports me very well, and makes sure that i always feel challanged and engaged in the work that i am involved in. She is always available to help me and supports my development in the biology department well, through making sure everything is running smoothly and regular meetings.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
3/5
Kent university offer alot of support throughout the training period, they meet with you every 8 weeks to make sure your progress is on track. There is also the opportunity to talk to the lecturers if you are struggling with any moodle content which makes the degree part easier and engaging.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
4/5
I think the qualification aids my performance in my role well, as it puts the theory behind the techniques we use everyday and gives you a well rounded basis to build your scientific understanding on. Further to this it allows you to pick the modules that suit you best in your final year which can be used for your work.
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
Currently a few of us apprentices are involved in STEM activities which allow us to spread the idea of a career in science to young and inspired people. This is particularly rewarding as you can really see the difference it makes to show young people that there is more to science.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Charles River to a friend?
Yes
Why?
I would recommend charles river as they are a great and welcoming company to work for. They are always interested in your feedback and want to make sure you develop and grow your skill sets throughout your training period. This give you the experience you need to go out into industry.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Charles River?
Some tips i would give are to just go for it! A career in science is rewarding and also interesting as there is always something new to learn and get involved in. e.g. several different clientel projects. You also get to experience several departments which allows you to get a more rounded understanding of drug discovery.
