Apprentice Scientist Review

I support the scientists in the laboratory and help them out on specialist equipment. I maintain and update this equipment and complete validations to trial new products. I train new starters on the equipment. I complete solvent screens for drug projects to enable them to find a better route for the pharmaceutical production.

I will have completed a degree in chemical science and I have developed my skills as an expert in the equipment. I have developed my teaching skills and business interactions with others. I have learnt how to communicate effectively via email and in a team setting in group meetings. I have improved my organisation skills due to having to manage my work and university time.

I wish there was more chemistry in the course but this has been improved for further years. I have enjoyed the work aspect more than the university course but the new course layout looks to be a lot better and would interest me more. I think that the portfolio hard copies were not environmentally friendly and sending all assignments over email would be better. I enjoy the environment at work as it is friendly and welcoming.

At work everything is well organised and you are expected to delegate your own tasks and take control of your work day to ensure these tasks get completed to a high standard. At university, things are more disorganised and the lecturers don't always communicate effectively with each other or with the students.

I have experienced a lot of support from my company as they have helped me through health issues and family issues which impacted my work. The work health scheme has enabled me to access healthcare quickly and get back to work. My manager and mentor have been really supportive throughout to ensure I am at my best.

I am able to schedule in phone calls when I need to talk things through. This has allowed me to discuss everything that is going on and get the help I need. I have also been able to access the disability service and get the support needed from them. Moodle is a great resource for submitting and getting work.

I feel that the chemistry is good for understanding more roles of those I work with and giving great collaboration opportunities. The projects are good at looking at project management to fit a certain brief as well as writing a detailed report as well as condensing this into a presentation. The presentations have given me more confidence when presenting in front of my colleagues.

There is a gym on site with lots of different classes to attend as well as lots of social events run by different people in the company. We have monthly meetings to discuss these and give people contacts if they want to get involved. For example, I got more into crochet due to the crafting club during one lunchtime a week.

Yes

They are an excellent employer with lots of support given to employees. They are constantly working to improve health and safety as well as taking into account their environmental impact. The HR and managers are easily approachable if you have any issues. There are lots of social activities which are good for when you have just moved into the area and want to meet more people.

Ensure you research about the company so you know that your values align with theirs. Once you get a role, keep asking questions as everyone is happy to help if you don't feel like you understand. I wish I had of taken more advantage of the healthcare instead of using the NHS as private is so much quicker to get your issues sorted.