Junior Technician Review

My role as an apprentice at Charles River involves me supporting client projects in early drug discovery. I spend the majority of my time based in the laboratory performing experiments to generate data that I then analyse. I have been involved across a wide variety of projects in different departments and roles. When I first joined I was based in Drug Metabolism and Pharmacokinetics (DMPK), in my second year I worked in Analytical Chemistry and I am now based in Biology working on a neuroscience based project.

Over the course of my apprenticeship my confidence and communication skills have vastly improved and I am now able to clearly present data. Team work is also a vital part of my role and my ability to do this has been improved working across different department that have vastly different dynamics and workflows. I have developed new skills in the lab ranging from learning the basics of tissue culture to becoming a proficient operator of automated equipment.

I have thoroughly enjoyed my time in the apprenticeship scheme, I have especially enjoyed the opportunity to experience different areas involved in the early drug discovery process. Everyone I have met has been really supportive of the apprenticeship program and there is always opportunities to branch out into different areas if you are interested someone will always be happy to show you.

The program is currently well structured with leaders of the overall apprenticeship scheme overseeing all related activities. Mentors are provided to each apprentice that they will work closely with and provide support for both work and academic related matters. We also have feedback session to provide our views and suggestions for both the training provider and the apprenticeship scheme at Charles River.

I have always felt supported throughout my apprenticeship, having weekly catch ups with both line manager and mentor is great for setting goals and updating them on the progression of the academic work. The wider team I work with are also very supportive and I have always found that if you ask someone will be able to provide you an answer and/or guidance on the matter.

I have found the support fairly good across the course, I have always found the academics at the university very responsive to any of my questions on course work. The university provide a point of contact that you will have regular meetings with either in a face to face or over a telephone format. It is also great that like any other student at the university of Kent you are offered access to facilities and resources such as the university library.

The course modules fit well within the job role, some are more suited to my job role than others. All of the modules are however interesting and encourage you to look outside the material provided. Overall the modules have given me a broader understanding on different areas of my job role and some aspects of modules I was able to apply to my job role directly.

There is plenty of activities across taking place across CRL with scientific training sessions running at lunchtimes that invite external speakers addressing topics such as rare diseases and use of new upcoming technologies for use in the research sector. There is also the opportunity to help with various volunteering opportunities to help the community.

Yes

Charles River is a very supportive company and they provide a great opportunity to gain experience in early drug discovery. Its great way to gain experience across a range of techniques and processes alongside studying for a degree in Applied Bioscience. Anyone considering a STEM based carrier should definitely consider a apprenticeship with Charles River as they provide effective training and have access to a wealth of knowledge and techniques within the early drug discovery industry.

Make sure you do you do some background research about the company's history, values and what recently they have been involved in. Its great if you are able to show your passion on a relevant topic or interest. Don't worry about your level of experience of working in a lab, the apprenticeship program is great way of getting started in this industry. Ask questions when you can and especially if you are given the opportunity to meet current apprentices.