Laboratory Analyst Review

Laboratory Analyst. I work in the laboratory where I am required to test a range of GSK products. I work within a team and my responsibility would be that I ensure I meet my daily lane and carry out the testing which is planned in for me to do. I am currently involved in a large project which is based on trying to overcome the bad ergonomics which have been raised to do with a manual test. This project also fits in with my university work as I needed a project as part of the course which I could then write up as a report. GSK sponsor my degree at Manchester Metropolitan University where I study Chemical Science.

I am studying for a degree in Chemical Science whilst working at GSK. I am allowed one day as a study day per week where the university sends over the work. From this I have learnt a wide range of Chemistry based knowledge. I have been trained on a few tests at GSK which has been interesting and very complex. I would say the main skills that I have developed so far at GSK would be team work, communication and the ability to work under pressure.

I really enjoy the laboratory work that I carry out and I appreciate the time that has been spent training me on the different testing that is carried out. The people that surround me on a daily basis are motivating and encouraging which is really confidence boosting as an apprentice. GSK do many things to ensure you are happy at work - I have a mentor which I see almost every week. My apprenticeship so far is meeting my expectations.

At GSK I think that, as an apprentice, it means that you get treated slightly differently which is acceptable considering many people are a lot more qualified and experienced with laboratory based work. Everyone gets an equal amount of appreciation if the right work is carried out. It is noticed more if the work is not done more so than when the work is. There are many tasks and projects which you can throw yourself into and as a company I think GSK values every person that works for them.

My programme is very well structured. I have had a lot of inductions and standard operating procedures that I have had to complete. My study day is once a week on a designated day and if I need extra support I have always been told to just ask.

My mentor that I was assigned from the beginning has been thoroughly supportive so far throughout my time at GSK. My whole team would be happy to support me if a trouble occurred during work and I would be more than confident to ask any one of them if I was struggling.

As an apprentice I think the wage is very good. I regularly have the chance to improve my salary as it gets reviewed twice a year and is based on my individual performance as to whether or not I get a pay rise. Once a year there is also a bonus that can be received providing the work you are doing is to everyone's standards.

There are many clubs at the gym which people can involve themselves with. As an apprentice there are many opportunities to promote the current apprenticeship and visit different schools to tell them about our apprenticeship experience.

Yes

Because I have, so far, really enjoyed working for GSK and I think the apprenticeship as a whole is brilliant. I am getting paid to gain valuable work experience whilst carrying out my degree (which is also paid for). I am treated well and the work I do is interesting, so much so that I enjoy coming to work each day.

For the interview process - just be yourself. Don't be too nervous but equally don't be over confident. Allow your personality to come through and be engaging to everyone you meet. Make sure that know the background of GlaxoSmithKline and exactly what role you are applying for.