Laboratory Apprentice (biology) Review

I am based in two different labs, a molecular lab and cell culture lab, and so on a day to day basis i will working on projects in either of the two labs, having meetings with my team, planning or writing up experiments, reading research papers and responding to emails etc.

The apprenticeship for me has been non stop learning. One day a week is assigned to our university study, where we take part in a distance learning applied bio-sciences course, which involves learning content and writing assignments or portfolios, and studying for exams. In the lab i have learnt a whole range of techniques and am independent in many different experiments, and am being trained on many more. I've had to learn how to manage my time properly, to fit lab work in with meetings, how to communicate ideas and apply knowledge in different ways. i'm soon to be traveling away for a conference on immune biology too, so i would say that the course is full of opportunity to build skills and develop yourself if you take opportunities given to you.

I really enjoy this program. my team is amazing and the science is so interesting. Even as an apprentice, i am still playing an important role in the team and company's mission. My work is real science of real importance and value, not menial or pointless tasks. I am learning from experts in the field working on medicines that could improve a lot of peoples lives. Not only this, but i am getting a degree without the worry of university fees. There are also many other apprentices on site, so for me i feel like i haven't missed out on the 'student' lifestyle that you get at university.

My manager and team makes me feel very valued in my work. From the ofset my manager said they didn't want me to feel like i was just here to do simple jobs or just follow a protocol, they wanted me to understand the science and be involved in the projects. Members of the team come to me for help with things they haven't done in a while, and they are all happy to share what they are doing and working on, which makes me feel valued as an employee and as a part of the team.

i would say quite organized. in terms of workplace training it was well organized, with obvious exceptions when lab work changed or people weren't around to train. now that i am fairly independent it is up to me to organise myself. i have a weekly meeting with my supervisor to discuss what i did last week and what i need to do for this week, but they are always around if i need to ask questions. The university course was a little unorganized and not structured particularly well to begin with but has definitely improved.

In terms of university, the tutor is usually on hand to give help or advice, although vague at times. Assignment feedback is ok but not extensive.

Lots of support. My team as a whole is very supportive with my work projects and university studies, and is supportive in my personal life too. they are all very happy to help if i am ever unsure with anything, or to give advice or teach me things ,point me in the right direction etc. My manager is very keen to help me progress and develop my skills my giving me different opportunities too which is encouraging and motivating.

The salary is competitive for an apprenticeship, and quite generous considering. I find it covers all my costs fine, but i commute from home, so i imagine if an apprentice is renting then money would be tighter. Its good to remember that you're getting industry experience and a degree without having to worry about university fees or costs.

Many. There is a gym on site if you want to train before or after work, or during lunch. Meditation or yoga classes sometimes at lunch. Apprentices are sent away for a development week each year, this year we are going to the lake district to do hiking and kyaking and things of that nature as a team development opportunity. There is also the opportunity to become a STEM ambassador, where you go to different outreach events in schools and fairs to talk to young people about apprenticeships and careers in science.

Yes

It is a fantastic opportunity. You are being taught from experts in the field, gaining a degree and making a difference to patients. At the end there is a relatively high chance of being kept on as a full time employee(if there is a place available). And even so, all the skills you gain are transferable if you choose not to stay with GSK afterwards.

Really have a look at GSK's mission and their values. Be yourself and don't be afraid to sell yourself! They want to see you as a person more than anything, they don't expect you to be a scientific expert!