Scientist Review

I am within the cell and gene therapy department of GSK which focuses on specialised treatments for cancer patients. Within this department I am in Analytical Development where I am involved with method development and testing samples. Over my time on the role I have become involved in various projects, working with both other teams in the department and also externally.

Over the course of my apprenticeship I have learnt many skills. Having had very minimal experience in an industry lab before it has been amazing to implement my knowledge from the university course into my practical work. Doing the university qualification at the same time has meant that I have the theoretical knowledge to back up what I am working on in the lab.

I really enjoy the programme - I have found both the university course and the work side of the apprenticeship both amazing and such a worthwhile way of getting my necessary qualifications to work in the pharmaceutical industry. I have especially enjoyed when my university modules have been really closely linked to my practical work so I can back up my knowledge.

I have a structure of working on the job for 4 days a week and then the other day is my study day. Within this study day I complete that weeks university work which is designed to fit within a day's work so I feel like the structure works really well.

I receive a lot of support from my employer. For example, if I have a question about my university work I know there will be someone around who is expert in that field so can help me work through the problem. In terms of being an apprentice in such a wide organisation, I feel like there is no negative attitudes towards it, only people saying how good an idea it is!

There is plenty of support from my training provider. We have regular face to face meetings with them throughout each year to ensure we are on track with not just our university qualifications but also with the work in general. We keep records for the training provider of our work so there is a tracking there.

I really feel like my qualification is vital for my role as it provides me with the theoretical knowledge to back up my practical on the job work. I feel like the more I have completed of the qualification, the more I understand of not just my work but also when hearing about other people's work.

Within our apprenticeship we have a group called NxtGen who organise social events for the apprentices which happens regularly so it is good to see apprentices from other sites. We have a gym on site so I use that often as well as various sporting events with other apprentices which are fun.

Yes

GSK is such an amazing company to work for because there are so many people with so many different expertise so it is very interesting talking to everyone. There is a good culture of being able to speak up so if there are any issues or workload becomes too much/ too little this can be helped.

Research the company before applying and know why you want to join. You will probably find that GSK makes more than what you think! Also if you have the opportunity to speak to anyone who works there - whether that is apprentices, placement students or full time employees - try and speak to them as this will give a good insight.