Industrial Placement Student Review

My role generally involved planning weekly experiments on Monday with my supervisor and carrying them out throughout the week. Primarily focusing on cell culture and assay development. Every two weeks, we also had team meetings, and department meetings were also held every so often.

I have learned how to follow Good Laboratory Practice (GLP). I learned about cell culture in Microbiological Safety cabinets and planned experiments. I learned how to use different instruments, including a flow cytometer and a luminometer. I learned how to use the RP-HPLC and SEC-HPLC for chemical conjugation of antibodies. I have developed my presentation skills, which have allowed me to gain confidence in my abilities.

I was mostly asked to focus on the project given to me and develop an understanding of it, rather than working on a live project.

Great support throughout.

AstraZeneca’s environment was also extremely welcoming, seeing how everyone shares a passion for science and encourages a strong sense of collaboration. This gradually familiarized me with the organization's culture while also helping me understand the diverse expertise of my colleagues and learning about novel aspects of science and possible career trajectories. Other learning opportunities were constantly available beyond the lab through various site and departmental presentations.

I really enjoyed the whole experience and understood that I want to pursue a career in research.

Yes

Others would have to quickly learn to adapt to the fast-paced pharmaceutical industry, which is both exhilarating and initially daunting. This presented me with challenges such as learning to manage time efficiently and balancing multiple tasks simultaneously, including university assignments. Moreover, joining AstraZeneca requires to rapidly assimilate new information, protocols, and techniques. This was essential to be able to start the project as effectively as possible, which requirs dedication and persistence.