Drug Discovery Apprentice II Review

I currently work in the Stem cell lab. As part of the team, I participate in the general maintenance of stem cells and neural progenitor cells. This includes, revival, passaging, plating and freezing down. I am involved with project work including preparing project specific media, ordering reagents and attend client meetings.

From the start of my apprenticeship, I've developed a multitude of new skills in different departments. Charles River allows apprentices to rotate into different departments each year, meaning each year I've developed new technical skills- such as aseptic technique, mammalian cell culture and stem cell culture, using liquid handling automation and training on a variety of assays. I've also had the chance to develop my soft skills- such as my communication and organizational skills.

I've really enjoyed this program. Each rotation has been as interesting as the last, and even things I didn't think I'd enjoy I found myself interested in. I've been provided with so many opportunities that make me excited to pursue a future career at Charles River.

I have found structure to vary between the departments I work in, however there has been a massive general improvement over the structure of the scheme over the years I have been here. I think CRL has really listened to feedback given in prior years and this in addition to experience of handling apprentices has allowed for training to be more organized and allows apprentices to really participate in the ongoing work in each department.

CRL have been extremely supportive. We have regular feedback sessions where we can openly talk about what we think is going well and what can be improved on in the apprentice scheme. Each apprentice is also given a designated mentor to help guide them in both a technical and personal manner. I have found my mentor has gone above and beyond in this role and really supported me throughout my career.

Kent university provides study guides for each module and a module convener contact, however I have found the study guides to sometimes be confusing and don't necessarily cover everything you need to know for exams. Aside from this, the university also allocates you an apprenticeship advisor who has regular check-ins with you every 9-12 weeks and I have find this to be very helpful.

I've found this to vary from department to department, however I believe the modules provide a good scientific background for working in the industry. I'd also say the modules become more relevant as you go along, and ones that I didn't originally think would be helpful for my work have often become helpful later.

There is a community involvement team which often offers extra-curricular activities to work. There are also social activities that are organized within departments by colleagues and these can be really fun. Apprentice workshops and sessions are also organized by the apprentice management team and these can be really informative and help build soft skills.

Yes

The work is really interesting and there are lots of opportunities to develop professionally. The people are very nice to work with and I've found that even at an apprentice level, my input and contributions are valued. I've also found the company to be really supportive of me and my career.

Look to join one of the schemes (e.g. the apprenticeship scheme or grad scheme) as these allow you to rotate into different departments and give you different perspectives of drug discovery. Ask for help if you need it and showing initiative within your role goes a really long way.