Laboratory Science Apprentice (Biology) Review

I perform regular safety assays, support existing projects and capabilities, and analyse data from my experiments. I also plan and execute individual projects to support my uni work. I am also involved in DE&I efforts so I help to plan and host events with the DE&I group I am part of as well as the others on site.

I have learned many new lab skills such as aseptic technique, flow cytometry, mass spectrometry, cell culture, compound screening, sample management, using automation, project development, and lab safety skills. I have also developed and improved my presentation and leadership skills from both my day-to-day role and my DE&I facing role.

I enjoy my programme very much. I have the opportunity to work alongside field experts while gaining a degree and work experience at the same time. I am developing both job-specific skills and transferrable skills from being in the lab and being involved in other activities on site such as DE&I efforts.

The work side of the programme is more organised than the university side of the programme. There is a lot provided from my workplace and the support is adequate. However, the university side could be improved with better communication of expectations, timeframes etc. with the workplace to avoid apprentices being overloaded with too much work a once

I receive enough support from my employer. I feel confident asking my manager and other people in my department for support and I am always given the help I need.

I am given satisfactory support from my training provider, I usually get my questions answered in a timely manner. However, I think there could be more guidance from the beginning on timeframes etc. to avoid burnout and overload towards the end due to having too many things running at once

My qualification is usually relevant to my role depending on the module I am doing at the time. However, I appreciate the non-job-relevant modules as well because they give me a better understanding of wider topics that I would not have covered in my job role

Yes, I am involved in DE&I efforts both in my department and across the organisation. Our department also hosts regular department socials and we also have team lunches/other social gathering activities. The sports teams also compete in locally organised tournaments against other sites. There are plenty of professional networking opportunities from the poster events that happen all year round.

Yes

It is a good company to work in, they have excellent facilities, development opportunities, and career progression. The are also focused on diversifying the composition of the more senior roles which is something I am passionate about.

Sell both your job-relevant skills and your other skills to make sure you are presenting yourself as a well-rounded individual. Also highlight a willingness to learn and progress in your career