R&D Summer Placement Review

I was given an independent chemistry project, designing an investigation, conducting analysis in the laboratory and analysing results. I took part in team meetings and team project discussions and also completed relevant learning courses through the online platform.

Yes, many! Networking, business acumen, spectroscopy, independent project design, time management. There are so many opportunities to develop skills via e-learning modules and you can design personalised learning pathways.

Yes, I was given my own project to design and implement and was responsible for planning all of my lab work, setting the goals, collecting the data and reporting this back to the wider team in the format of reports and presentations.

While there was a lot of emphasis on independent working, there was always someone there who was happy to answer your questions and help if needed. It is not an intimidating atmosphere and everyone is always keen to check that you are doing okay.

I found the environment very supportive and open. Everyone I met was friendly and very happy to help, but they also seemed to value my input which helps you to build confidence more quickly. The good work-life balance and emphasis on wellbeing gave the image of a company that really cared about its employees. I was surprised how it felt like everyone knew everyone, despite it being such a large company and I settled in quickly.

Despite the challenges of covid-enforced hybrid working I really enjoyed my placement. I got a really good feel of the company and a very warm welcome and it was exciting to be given a project that will hopefully one day soon have real-life impact.

Yes

Just be yourself, do not try to be too smooth or corporate, this is not what they are looking for. They want bright, interesting people who will fit into the culture and bring good ideas and a positive attitude to the table.