Senior Scientist Review

My role is split been office and lab work. I develop and run assays in the lab as part of the projects that I am assigned and collect and analyze the data from these assays. I communicate and present my data to the clients and we then work together to discuss the data and any next steps, I also help train younger members of staff in the assays that I am well versed in.

I have been able to learn to run agarose gels and conventional PCRs, as well as automated patch clamping .I have also developed skills in report writing. I have also learnt and developed a new assay called DRIP-qPCR and I've learned to use a machine called the Jess which allwos for automated Western blotting.

The programme is very enjoyable with a good range of assets available for study and a well structured study guide. The use of journal clubs that act as both ways to hone presentation skills but also put into practice the the knowledge you have learned was very helpful.

The programmed is very well structured and well laid out with a variety of papers and videos which make for an enjoyable learning experience. There is a good balance of coursework and the separation of individual topics into study guides makes it easier to look back on to find something you need.

My employer respects the time I I take to study on the programme and has also offered mentoring and support for any topics I have difficulty with. They also provide me with a range of tasks to help me put into practice the knowledge I gain from the course in the form of different projects, bioinformatics work and data analysis.

My training provider has provided us with plenty of resources and support for the degree from the academics as well as other support groups from the university. They provide resources such as help with statistcs and help tailor the course to fi with the apprenticeship marking criteria.

The qualification has provided me with the opportunity to accustom myself with journal article reading which has been useful in more exploratory projects. It has also deepened my understanding of drug discovery to allow me to partake in more meaningful discussions following important meetings and helps me understand the business side of it all better.

Yes there are sports teams, opportunities to attend conferences and other game nights, as well as more general social events.

Yes

It is a friendly work environment with a wide variety of projects where you will be able to find something that interests and excites you. You have access to a wide range of departments with opportunities to flexibility move between departments to keep yourself engaged with the work you are doing.

Try and get to know people from other departments when you get here as it will give you more of an appreciation for the work you do and the data you produce, and help with networking, and may provide you with additional learning opportunities that will accelerate your development even further.