Lab Apprentice Review

I carry out various experiments relevant to a project, which will help gain a deeper understanding of the biology behind it. I then analyse this data, often by creating graphs. Afterwards, I write up a report, which contains my results and conclusions from the completed experiment. Additionally, I present the data obtained to other members of my team.

I have learnt to carry out various quantitative and qualitative techniques; such as ELISA/MSDs, qPCR, flow cytometry, western blot, histology, assay design and cell culture. Additionally, I have greatly improved my presentational skills by regularly presenting the data I have obtained to other team members, as well as my analytical skills, as one must identify if the data obtained is real or a false positive. This can often be determined by the use of a positive and negative control in experiments, as well as using another assay to see whether similar results can be obtained.

The apprentice programme is amazing! It allows one to obtain a foundation degree whilst gaining three years of industry experience. The apprenticeship can be extended for another year and a half to obtain a full degree. I enjoy the apprentice and feel like a value member of GSK. Furthermore, there are developmental and university weeks, where one can spend a week as a full-time university student; attending lectures and carrying out practicals. The development week is with apprentices from GSK sites all over the work (America, Singapore, etc.), and allows you to push yourself and develop resilience.

It has been carefully thought out. We have three exams sessions annually, this means that you do not have to sit all your exams in one go, unlike most full-time university students. Moreover, apprentices are allocated one study day per week, giving apprentices time to concentrate on university work. There's also two one week long summer schools in the first and second years of the apprenticeship.

Tons! We have one study day per week which they have given us to carry out solely university work. In addition, each apprentice has a supervisor who trains them up and helps them, as well as a mentor, who usually works in a different department. Doing an apprenticeship gives you the opportunity to discuss assignments with industry experts and to gain a better understanding of topics!

The university provides us with online study guides which we must work through and regularly tests our understanding through coursework and formative assignments. We receive feedback for everything, which is great and helps one to improve and prepare for exams. Additionally, there are lecturers who are only an email away.

I have gained a more in depth understanding of the science, specifically the biology, behind my role and improve my general knowledge of science as well. I have also realised the more in depth you learn about biology there is more chemistry that is involved. The university has aided me in improving my presentational skills and the quality of my reports. I study Applied Bioscience Technology, which has been specifically designed for individuals interested in pursuing a career in industry. As a result, the course is very relevant to my role.

Yes, there are so many! There is an apprentice social committee at GSK, as well as departmental social committees and student social committees (there are industrial placement and PhD students here as well). They all have regular events. Also, there are lots of different committees that you can join and regular networking opportunities.

Yes

It's such a good opportunity, as you gain industry experience whilst studying towards a degree. This gives apprentices a competitive advantage compared to those with little to no experience. I also personally feel that its a good experience working in a professional environment, which is very different to school or college. I have also been able to greatly develop a lot of skills (such as analytical, time management, presentational skills etc.), which I feel that if I had gone to university I would not have been able to develop as much. Also, GSK really cares about their apprentices and helps with personal development; my manager is very supportive and encouraging.

Consider both university and apprenticeships, evaluate both, find which one suits you best and then go for that. Be yourself. If you get invited for an interview, prepare for the questions as best you can, and have relevant examples for each point. I also recommend reading about GSK and the department you are applying for before the interview.