Analytical Scientist Review

I perform chemical analysis on internal and external products. To advance the knowledge of the science behind our products. I also provide the scientific data to back up claims and explore options for product development. I perform this by running samples on a variety of analytical techniques including LC-MS, GC-MS, LC-UV and NIR spectroscopy. I am responsible for sample preparation, data acquisition and data processing and all followed up with a report to conclude the findings

During my placement I was treated no differently to a normal full time employee. At some times I was even treated better as I was constantly given opportunities to join all different kinds of projects where I could both lead and shadow to gain valuable transferable skills to use in other day-to-day activities. whilst on placement I had the opportunity to individually perform chemical analysis and was trusted to perform the data processing which was project critical information which was provided to senior stakeholders.

I have developed so many new skills on placement. The professional skills I have learnt and developed include; Teamwork, time management, confidence, presentation skills, report writing and also management skills. Alongside this I have also developed my technical skills in the chemical industries, gaining valuable experience in worldwide used analytical techniques such as GCxGC-MS and LC-MS/MS. Furthermore i have been exposed to some electrical engineering and have had the opportunity to work on coding and learn some C++ programming language.

I was very lucky and had the best line manager I could have asked for. He was very supportive of my personal development by constantly seeking out opportunities to share my research and work conducted to give me visibility and project ownership. Furthermore, I was given a lot of opportunities to attend training provided by instrument manufacturers to get a better understanding of the more technical aspects of the analytical chemistry industry. Furthermore, whenever issues arose he hastily helped.

The culture at BAT is very friendly and motivating. Everyone is always happy to help no matter the connection and show a genuine interest in the employees. The site also has a gym and sports hall which allow for team bonding whilst attending gym classes and sport classes like basketball and football. Furthermore, the teams participate in a variety of team building activities and days out which helped with integrating and making friends within the team.

I really enjoyed my time at BAT. The work conducted was very novel and resulted in interesting investigations which I found to be interesting and motivated me to work harder. The team was also a pleasure to work with as they were highly technical which allowed me to receive high quality information whenever asking for advice or clarification. It met all of my expectations and I would definitely return if there was an opening in my team.

Yes