Clinical Research Industrial Placement Student Review

I worked in clinical operations across four studies spanning oncology, haematology and immunology. Day-to-Day, I would having one-to-one meetings in the morning and study team calls in the afternoon due to US time-zone. The tasks I was assigned included sample management, disease evaluation visit reviews, filing central study documents, generating filing reports, vendor supply management, and updating study documents alongside protocol amendments. This role provided exposure to studies of different therapeutic areas and phases, as well as the opportunity to work cross-functionally with colleagues from all over the globe. Outside of my studies, I coordinated two student work experience programmes and organised networking events with other placement students and colleagues from many other departments.

Yes. For my studies, much of my work was directly related to the primary endpoints of the study, demonstrating its importance. I was also given opportunities to present study metrics to teams of ~40, create my own trackers while directly working with vendors, and coordinate a five-session student work experience programme for 60 year 8 students.

Yes, I've become a more advanced user of Excel, AI (Copilot premium specifically), clinical trial databases, and filing systems. Beyond the technical side, I've also developed my interpersonal skills significantly, including presenting and professional collaboration with colleagues. I've definitely become more organised, measured in my decision-making and confident in my ability to make a positive impact on the team. I also now have a much deeper understanding of the pharmaceutical industry and clinical operations.

Lots. I had a four-week handover with the previous placement student which was hugely valuable for settling in to a completely new environment. I had weekly meetings with my manager, colleagues in office, and colleagues overseas in my study teams. This allowed me to have frequent check-ins, ask lots of questions, and learn quickly.

Very welcoming. There was a good balance of productivity and socialising in the office. This involved a good mix of discussions both within and outside of work. Overall, it felt as if there was a strong community, whereby everyone enjoyed working together and delivering transformational therapies for patients.

I really enjoyed it. It was a year of significant growth for me both personally and professionally. I learnt to much about the industry, made lots of great connections, and now I have a better understanding of what my future career could look like.

Yes