Laboratory Technician Review

My role is to provide technical support to Masters and PhD students at Cranfield University and also to deliver funded projects to companies outside of the university. I support students with their research by carrying out technical analysis, mostly in the field of microbiology. This can involve, but is not limited to: RNA and DNA extractions, algae Cultivation, agar plate preparation and analysis and cell counting.

Yes, since working at the university I have learnt many things. I have read and contributed to multiple research papers. I have an strong knowledge of aseptic techniques and the methods for cultivating and growing cells under these conditions. I understand now how to extract, store and analyse DNA and RNA and their concentrations. I can also carry out a PCR on the extracted samples.

I do enjoy studying a lot. I sometimes find it quite stressful as I feel it has slightly lowered my work/life balance but this is mostly due to my own personal stuff. It can be very difficult to manage, but the support I receive from both my employer and my provider is really good. Plus I am learning loads along the way and meeting great people.

I think its very well structured. I have a day a week to complete my studies and any other time is spent on site completing "on the job" tasks. I am fully supported by everyone involved, for example if I ever need any extra time to complete an assignment or work I am always given it which is great from Cranfield (my employer) The modules are on moodle so it's easy to view and see what needs to be done and I also log any off the job hours online which is nice and easy (although can take some time)

A lot of support. As mentioned previously if I ever need more than the 20% legal requirement for off the job studies it is almost always given to me and they trust me to manage my time by myself. I am also given. The only thing that could be better is any training/extra learning whilst on the job itself.

Again, a lot of support. I've been given a mentor, I get weekly meetings with my module conveyor to check if I have any questions regarding the course material, I get regular email updates with any important student information, my apprenticeship advisor is great, and I can always access help if I have any questions or need any information.

It has definitely helped me so far. In the first module I was learning about Prokaryotic and Eukaryotic cells, but within that module was information on plate preparation for growing bacterial cells, fungus etc, which is something I was also doing at work that same week. It definitely helped me to do a better job with this.

I have been to a couple of social events with work. The technical team play badminton once a week on their lunch break, which really enhances wellbeing within the team. I have been to a networking/conference in Nottingham to celebrate technicians, we have the option to attend any online training courses for personal wellbeing and to enhance the career.

Yes

For me, the people I work with play a huge part in my happiness at work. The people at Cranfield University are lovely to work with, supportive and kind. They are very good especially with flexible working. Its very much a team working environment and it's very rare to feel on your own whilst working there.

Don't be afraid of being yourself, everyone is supported regardless of gender, sexual orientation, identity, etc. If you get the job, find time to be involved in any group activities, because not only does this help with personal well-being and mood but it also helps to improve team spirit and communication.