Technician Review
at Charles River
Degree Apprenticeship
Science
Saffron Walden
Review Submitted: May 2023
Overall Rating
3.8 /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
-
Overview of Role
4/5
-
Skills Development
3.4/5
-
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
I design and run molecular biology experiments for client projects. This involves calculating concentrations and volumes, planning what to investigate and including positive and negative controls. I work with cells, RNA, DNA and proteins to collect data on biological pathways and the effects of compounds. I analyze these results, discuss them with the project manager and present them to clients at meetings.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
4/5
I have really enjoyed my experience working and studying as an apprentice. I have been given a range of opportunities to work in different areas of drug discovery and learn different skills. I have also enjoyed working within diverse teams and building positive relationships with coworkers. The environment is very welcoming and supportive.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
I have developed lots of technical and interpersonal skills during my apprenticeship. Practical skills include learning different types of molecular biology experiments such as transient transfections, qPCR and Western Blot. I have also learned how to use different types of equipment such as liquid handling automation. I have also learned how to present scientific data and respond to challenging questions and developed organization and time management skills.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
The program is well structured with year long rotations in different areas of the company to experience different areas of science. In every department, apprentices are allocated a mentor who can provide day-to-day support in answering work-related questions. Apprentices also have regular reviews with an advisor from the university to ensure we stay up to date with the course.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
4/5
I have received a lot of support from my employer to complete my degree. There is a wide range of experience within the company and many people can answer questions related to course content. All apprentices are supported by a manager and a mentor in each department who ensure they are keeping on track with university and work tasks and help resolve any problems.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
3/5
Apprentices have regular reviews with the University of Kent to make sure they are on track with coursework and exams. Each degree module has an academic contact who can be easily contacted by email to provide support. This may include answering questions about course content, exam structure and coursework requirements.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
3/5
Completing a biology degree has definitely helped me progress in my job role. I have a better understanding of how experiments work and the background of different drug discovery projects. For example, the immunology module helped me better understand immune pathways involved in neurodegenerative disease and have better insights into my data.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
3/5
There is a range of different activities to get involved with. These include board game club, warhammer, running club and interdepartmental competitions such as taskmaster and rounders. There are additional opportunities to network with other companies on the science park at different events. The science park also includes a golf club, gym and outdoor trim trail equipmrny.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Charles River to a friend?
Yes
Why?
I think there are lots of opportunities to work in different areas of drug discovery at Charles River. Employees are well supported by managers and the friendly team environment. The apprenticeship program allows you to gain a range of experience in chemistry and biology and develop lots of new skills.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Charles River?
When applying for apprenticeships, it's useful to show examples of how you've balanced working with studying previously. I think it's also good to demonstrate that you're interested in specific areas related to the job role by talking about any relevant work experience or events that you've attended.
