Materials Science IP Review

The role involves using investigative methods and techniques to determine material properties of pharmaceutical ingredients to aid diagnostics, analysis, and development at GSK. My roles include conducting laboratory work to assess the physical properties of API and excipients (incl morphology, crystal structure, specific surface area, moisture interactions and thermal stability), equipment ownership, project management and team leadership, writing up laboratory experiments and reports for stakeholders, and continuous improvement tasks for the department- for things such as safety and compliance, data integrity, and project metrics.

I had a lot of responsibility on my placement. I was an equipment owner, which meant that I was responsible for the performance verification testing, upkeep, and troubleshooting of the kit. As well as this, after gaining enough experience I was given the responsibility of leading projects for my department. This involved planning and conducting necessary laboratory experiments, leading other people to carry out lab work, and writing up and presenting the data collected to stakeholders.

I have learnt a great number of new laboratory techniques that I had no prior knowledge about. I've been able to grow my competency in conducting lab work on my own, had lots of practice writing laboratory reports, and presenting my findings in a coherent manner. As well as this I have greatly developed my soft skills- I have gained much more experience with project leadership, team work, communication, and working in a GMP/GLP environment.

I was very supported for the duration of my placement. I had regular 1 to 1's with my manager in which we discussed the work I was doing, how I was feeling, and if I needed any help or support with anything. I also had a 'buddy' in my department who I could go to if I had any questions or concerns about anything. This was particularly useful when I first started. I also had a mentor who was in a different department so I could talk to them about any concerns I had within my department, and who gave me advise.

There was a good company culture, lots of effort was put into making everyone feel included- there are inclusion groups such as spectrum and the women's leadership initiative, which hosted regular events for people. As well as this, there was a big encouragement for inclusion of young talent- so there were also regular events held to get the industrial placement students together and there was a great community feel. Everyone in the company is very welcoming and very happy to have a networking chat if you asked.

I really really enjoyed my placement, and am very sad to be leaving! I have learnt so much more than I ever imagined and have gained such a different perspective on the industry and the working world. My department has been so encouraging and accommodating and treated me like any other member of the team. And when I had some health issues at work everyone was so helpful and were willing to take their time out to take care of me.

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