Technician Review

My role involves carrying out in-vitro assays in the lab, followed by processing the data and, if required, discussing with project coordinators to ensure the data is acceptable to report to and promptly submitting the data to clients. Examples of assays I carry out include hepatocyte stability assays and protein binding assays.

I have learned how to carry out protein binding assays as well as their underlying theory. I have developed existing skills such as pipetting, molarity calculations, and cell counting to set up the assays as well as learning to operate the mass specs to analyze my samples, as well as learning to process the data so that it is suitable to be submitted to clients.

Although the work is fairly routine and the variety of work is not massive, I enjoy the benchwork and especially enjoy data analysis/processing. I have have also been able to lead and carry out a project in the department which, although challenging, I found to be an interesting and rewarding experience.

The programme is fairly well structured with several apprentice-focused events, such as journal clubs to practice literature critique and presentation skills. There are also feedback sessions that allow the apprentices to influence the apprenticeship programme to suit them better. Apprentices also have a mentor who is available to assist them in their professional and scientific development.

I have been well-supported throughout my apprenticeship with access to multiple mentors with experience in each department that I have rotated through. My line managers have always been supportive and shown an interest in supporting my development, for example, with respect to finding other disciplines to train up in or advice on coursework and SIAS standards. (Both being required for the completion of my apprenticeship).

I receive adequate support from my training provider, who is usually quick to respond to queries I have regarding coursework. There are also weekly communications regarding exam timelines and other important information. We have informal ~bimonthly meetings with a dedicated apprenticeship advisor to discuss any issues and to monitor our performance.

I have obtained a foundation degree in Applied Bioscience. Some of the modules covered so far have proved relevant to work I have carried out, including cell biology and certainly pharmacology and enzymology, which have proved useful for my project which was carried out in DMPK as well as work carried out in biochemical screens.

There is an intra-company networking event called Young professionals ERG which allows you to be talk to individuals in other disciplines/operational areas. As well as this, there are also more external courses available which staff are encouraged to attend, such as Drug metabolism discussion groups. There are a variety of social activities available such as board games nights, or pub meet-ups.

Yes

There is a positive work environment at Charles River where professional development is considered important. The apprenticeship rotations are beneficial as they do not confine you and allow you to be exposed to a variety of disciplines in drug discovery, allowing you to make decisions about the type of work you want to do.

There are plenty of opportunities for development at Charles River - Not just scientific but also soft skills such as presenting skills and eventually, introductions to project management or even handling clients.