Apprentice Analytical Chemistry Laboratory Scientist Review

I am an apprentice Process Support Scientist working in an analytical chemistry lab for the Technical team at Worthing Primary. I attend daily meetings where I get to hear about all the work my team are doing and also receive my tasks for the day. As we have not be manufacturing since I started these tasks are varied but rarely involve lab work.

This job has increased my confidence and developed my interpersonal skills. I have received a lot of training but most of this has been in generic site operating procedures. I hope to receive some lab training once we re-start manufacturing in the next few months. My university course has three modules in each year. The first year modules are Health and Safety, Maths and Chemistry. I find these are suitably interesting and challenging.

I enjoy working with my colleagues and managers as they are all very knowledgeable, friendly and supportive. The company culture is good and I like how much emphasis there is on team work. However, the job has not really met my expectations as I haven't done any lab work. However, this is something they cannot help and it is set to improve over the coming months.

I am always able to get involved with on-going projects and I feel I am as valued as any other member of the team. My managers show a lot of appreciation for all the work I do and it has also been recognised through the local reward system.

My induction and initial training was a bit messy but only due to the remediation period we are currently going through. I now have regular 1:1 meetings with my manager and daily meetings with the whole team. I feel very well supported and there is a clear hierarchy although I am not made to feel intimidated by being at the bottom of this hierarchy.

My studying is through MMU. We use an e-learning site which is easy to use and has all the information I need. The tutors are very helpful and always respond very promptly to any queries I may have. This really helps me to enjoy my university work.

I have a manager and a mentor. Both are always readily available to speak to on an ad hoc basis as well as at regular meeting. They are both extremely knowledgeable and helpful.

I live at home and commute 30 miles each way. My salary easily covers my living costs and leaves plenty of money to save each month.

As part of GSK's motto of enabling people to 'do more, feel better and live longer' there is a scheme called Orange Day where every employee is allowed to take one day fully paid to volunteer for a chosen community project, non-profit organisation or cause which they support. I have also been able to train as a STEM ambassador which is a great opportunity to get children and young people enthusiastic about science and the job opportunities is provides. There are plenty of social opportunities-formal and informal.

Yes

They are a multinational company made up of so many wonderful people doing a great patient focussed work. Everybody is very friendly and the opportunities for an aspiring scientist are vast.

Apply early to show interest and avoid disappointment. Try your best at every stage of the application and when you are told to prepare for the interview, PREPARE! Once you get the apprenticeship, take every opportunity you are given. It also important to have the confidence to speak up in your team and to any others you may be interacting with.