Senior Scientist Review

Lab based role providing solid state science support to projects however with many (and progressively more) opportunities to generate and work with large datasets. Also involved in predictive science (crystal structure prediction, computational chemistry and pharmaceutics) and automation of screening workflows. As well as generating experimental data, I also compile that generated by the wider solid state team with the aim of using this data to improve our predictive abilities around the performance of compounds based on their measured properties.

Through the apprenticeship I have expanded my Python skills to include data handling and cleaning as well as data analysis and visualisation. I now also have a better understanding of available data analysis tools and data protection regulations, and am currently learning how to apply data mining and machine learning in my role.

I am very much enjoying the programme so far, the mix of learning activities maintains engagement and the content is interesting. The administration of the remote learning has also worked well. There is a big focus on content being relevant to applications in our organisation and that learning is applied within my role.

The programme is well structured, with the full curriculum set out from the beginning so allows clearer planning of learning. The online platform used by the programme is easy to use and seems to be a good fit with remote learning. There are clear objectives and outcomes for each section of the programme.

My employer provides support in many different ways for me to complete this apprenticeship. In addition to my time required to complete the programme, there are many opportunities to for further relevant learning (e.g. webinars) and to practice some of the skills (e.g. hackathons). My line manager is also supportive of the apprenticeship.

I receive the required amount of support from the training provider. The programme is well set out with a mix of different learning activities, knowledge checks and scheduled calls with my mentor. Although I have not needed it, I have been made aware that I can contact my mentor should extra support be required, and there has been a new help centre launched which should make getting answers to questions easier.

I feel that the qualification will help me to apply new data analysis techniques to the data I already have access to but also as new projects that I am involved with generate larger datasets, the learning from the apprenticeship will help me to expand my role to allow a greater scope for data analysis. I also have a better awareness of data architecture which helps in planning and implementing these projects.

There are many extra-curricular activities to get involved in such as those already mentioned (hackathons, webinars) and are mainly around sharing work and related learning, some of these specific to apprentices. There are regular wellbeing activities within my department and there have been some, though not many, departmental and wider social activities.

Yes

a. Yes. There are many opportunities within my role, including for personal development, for example the Data Analysist apprenticeship, and to direct the focus of the role, such as to cover more data analysis within project work or as internal departmental projects. There are many knowledgeable colleagues who are happy to help and collaborate on projects and ideas.

a. Have a good understanding of the overall organisation, the specific role and the department the role is based in. Be interested in the role and the related work that it involves as well as motivation to deliver an outcome. Be open to collaboration and sharing your knowledge, skills and learning.