Upstream Vector Process Development Review

I supported my team with bioreactor production runs (mostly at th 2L scale) producing viral vector. We were responsible for optimising the process by improving viral titre, trying to reduce resources/costs of the process, etc. I also performed a series of analytical assays in order to measure viral titre, as well as optimising new process analytical technologies to improve the real-time measurements of our process.

I was given a lot of responsibility throughout my placement - I had my own project which I was able to have a lot of freedom over whilst still having the support that I needed. I was able to plan/design experiments fairly independently as well as carry out most of the lab work on my own. I think there was a really good balance between independent and supported work with my team.

I have vastly improved my research skills - approach to planning experiments, my lab skills and analytical/write up skills. I became much more confident and efficient in communicating with colleagues as well as presenting to groups of people. I had the opportunity to take part in a public speaking course, as well as access to various resources such as LinkedIn Learning which meant I was able to develop in areas I felt were necessary.

I received a good amount of support throughout my placement - with quite thorough training at the beginning. Additionally, I felt I was always able to ask questions to every member of my team and if anything this was encouraged. I was able to seek feedback from my manager which helped me to improve and become more independent as a result.

The company culture was nice, every member of staff was friendly and I felt as though almost everyone was invested in my development as an IP. The site I worked at is a big site and so it was impossible to be involved with everyone, but I feel as though there could have been slightly more communication with other departments as at times it felt like I was limited to only m department - but I think this is largely down to the size of the site/company.

I thoroughly enjoyed my placement, I feel as though I've gained a wealth of new skills and developed old ones, and it has really helped to inform the next steps in my career.

Yes