University Industrial Placement Student Review

In my role I had to maintain my cell cultures, perform assays and experiments, and attend regular meeting with project collaborators, my teams and wider department. I also had to analyse the data, write up the results of my experiments and plan out the next stages based on these.

Yes, I had to schedule my own lab work as well as drive a project myself that was separate from my main project, delivering regular feedback sessions to the multiple departments that were involved in the specific project.
In general, I was responsible for the maintenance of my cell lines and also carrying out my lab work to a high standard once I had been taught the techniques by my supervisor.

Yes, I learnt to culture cells in 2D and 3D, how to generate lentivirus and carry out transduction of lentivirus, and a range of molecular biology techniques including: western blot, immunofluorescence imaging, flow cytometry, ELISA. I have also learns to use automation equipment including a range of liquid handlers, bioprinters and cell counters. I have also developed my presentation and writing skills.

My line manager and supervisor were always incredibly helpful and supportive of my project work aswell as the University work i had to complete during my placement. They would always give me advice on how to improve and also positive feedback.
The wider team was also great at providing me with support and guidance. I was always able to schedule time to speak to people for advice aswell as a quick question if I was struggling with something in the lab.

There was a culture of hard work and dedication. But there was also an atmosphere encouraging a good work/life balance. The atmosphere was very supportive of early talent and personal development. There is also a great drive for exploration and innovation, encouraging curiosity. Individuality and differences in ways of working and thinking are celebrated.

I found the entire experience to be highly enjoyable, from the people I worked with, the project I was working on in the lab, to the wider opportunities that I was given to development my own skills and experiences. Having to do university work alongside my placement was quite stressful at times especially when work and university deadlines clashed but my team were always there to support me and help me through the stressful times.

Yes