University Industrial Placement Student Review

Full-time in the lab, working on antibody purification and characterisation method development. My work included DNA preparation through bacterial transformation and culture, mammalian cell culture for transient antibody expression, protein purification via various column chromatography methods, and protein analysis/characterisation.

I was given a lot of independence surrounding lab work and was responsible for planning experiments, generating data, and troubleshooting my project when required. I actively communicated with project collaborators, and presenting my results to wider audiences. I was also involved on committee within an employee resource group and took an active role in event organisation for our early talent community.

I have developed a wide variety of skills related to my project work as well as techniques outside of this based on personal interest.

Countless members within my lab/wider team supported me throughout my placement. Several trained me in techniques and helped me to troubleshoot lab work many times.
Collaborators from a different department trained me in techniques and supported aspects of my project throughout.
Regular 1:1 meetings with my supervisor to discuss project progress. More active involvement/support in the lab from my supervisor and actually working together on tasks would have been appreciated.

Positive, very inclusive and supportive culture and atmosphere

I enjoyed it overall, I have gained and developed countless skills and made lots of experiences which will help me professionally/of which I've enjoyed personally.

Yes