Drug Discovery Apprentice III Review

I work in a stem cell lab, where we culture pluripotent stem cells and carry out differentiation protocols as directed by the client. My job is mostly lab based- working aseptically with cells, performing tasks such as passaging and feeding. I work as part of a team who I interact with on a daily basis to discuss how the cells are doing and plan our workload. I'm involved in multiple projects, some of which I also participate in client meetings that are usually about once per month.

I've been able to develop my cell culture skills to higher a level, as stem cells are more fragile than the robust cell lines that are used for assays. I've become better at being able to distinguish different morphologies of cells during differentiation protocols, which helps with troubleshooting. I have also learnt qPCR and RNA extraction techniques.

I've been on this programme for over a year, but prior to that I did my foundation degree with the same company and provider for 3 years. It is a really great programme which has given me invaluable experience in the drug discovery industry whilst also allowing me to get my degree alongside.

The programme provided by my employer is very well organised and clearly structured. I think the online learning guides provided by University of Kent can be a little unstructured and unclear sometimes (e.g. sometimes its not clear what is expected to be learnt for the exam and what is not), but it depends between modules. There has been the odd occasion where communication between employer and education provider could have been better, however as time goes on this has improved.

It is a really positive environment to work in and I feel everything I have needed support for, I have recieved. Whenever I have struggled with a particular skill or even my studies, the company has offered support. The employer gives each apprentice a mentor and my mentor is really hands-on and has really helped me develop.

As part of my final year I have to do a company-based project for my degree and I have been very well supported throughout, especially with managing my workload so that I can prioritise my project. They take responsibility for finding exam invigilators so we can complete our exams at work rather than having to go all the way to the university of Kent. They always make an active effort to support our learning where possible.

The modules I have completed have become increasingly more relevant to my job role, and have provided me with background information that puts my work into context.

No, however I attend social events within my department.

Yes

It was a great decision for my career and I have developed so much as a person and professional during my time here.

Show eagerness to learn and work hard.