Biology Laboratory Apprentice Review

I am a biology laboratory apprentice in biopharmaceutical process research. I work within the upstream group, stability testing project molecules in subculture, and testing performance in small scale bioreactors, in order to pick a lead line. On a day to day basis I am subculturing, running three AMBR 15 bioreactors as well as analysing the data sets they produce. Other than project work I also design and run my own experiments to test new products and streamline processes. I am also studying one day a week for my biotechnology degree. Alongside this I also work promoting apprenticeships by going to schools and events and presenting about my experiences.

I have learnt a plethora of new skills; within the laboratory I have learnt to use, programme and maintain several pieces of sophisticated equipment that I use regularly. I have also learnt how to design, plan and carry out my own experiments effectively as well as how to apply knowledge from previous experiences in order to overcome new challenges. Outside of the laboratory I have developed my written skills when learning how to accurately track and write up my findings. My communication and networking skills have improved immensely as well as my presentation skills. It is impossible to explain the many ways I have changed and improved since becoming an apprentice at GSK, my friends and family have noticed it more than myself, however when I look back at all the opportunities and experiences I have had it becomes no surprise.

I have really enjoyed my apprenticeship programme so far, I enjoy all of the new challenges I am faced with and the relaxed, welcoming atmosphere within my team. The university degree is the part which I least enjoy, however I know it is necessary and it makes me realise that leaving university in order to take up my current role was the right decision.

I do feel very valued as a GSK employee. From day one I was welcomed and given meaningful work, and treated as a full member of staff; getting all the same benefits and holidays. My manager always shows his appreciation ensuring I want to stay even when offered job roles from other companies. I often carry out vital project work on my own without any guidance and whenever there is a decision to be made my line manager will come to me and ask my opinion, often implementing my ideas.

My programme is still quite new, therefore it is still evolving and can be unorganised at times. This does not effect any of my work as my team is very organised it is purely apprentice only events. The university I am enrolled with for my degree first year was very unorganised and didn't enrol me until January rather than September. Now in my second year they have become much better and have taken all of our feedback into account including adding videos to the online content and more frequent progress reviews.

Everyone within my department is great at supporting me and is happy to answer any queries I come to them with as well as letting me shadow them, so I was able to get an end to end view of the process. My university tutor is not as good at supporting me, as it is distance learning it can be hard to get a quick response via email and fully explain any questions I may have. Instead I tend to go to someone within my team who is a specialist in the area and they are happy to help me.

My line manager provides me with lots of support with bi weekly one to ones to discuss my progress. I also have meetings with the head of my department every three months he can find out what I am doing and to keep my development on track. I also have a mentor who is a GSK fellow who advises me on steps to further my career.

The salary covers my rent (which is very high as I am on the outskirts of London), fuel for my 36 mile commute each way to work, as well as allows me to pay for the livery for my two horses and save up a small amount for vet bills and holidays. However I do think it would be better if the salary took into account location; for example apprentices working in Ulverston where the average house price is just over £250,000, are paid the same as apprentices working in Hertfordshire where it is just over £500,000.

The company hosts lots of seminars and lectures for staff as well as allowing us a budget to go to any others that may interest us. They also have a gym on site which hold lots of classes and clubs. My team also does lots of team builds and has a BBQ every year at the head of departments house. The apprenticeship network within GSK organises lots of social events ranging from bowling to boat parties.

Yes

I think it is a great opportunity for anyone looking to develop themselves surrounded by industry leaders. It is a relaxed and welcoming environment where you will develop a huge skill set and become a well rounded, confident individual.

Practise your interview and possible questions, and make sure you don't just talk about school and your chosen apprenticeship in your application. They want you to be a well rounded individual, so talk about hobbies and experiences that you have enjoyed.