Anoushka Reeves-Daley

• Year of study: Fourth (in 2023/24)
• Length of course: Four years

I chose to study at the University of Northampton because the I felt that the course perfectly aligns with my educational and personal aspirations, particularly the University’s strong emphasis on practical, hands-on learning, combined with its reputation for academic excellence. The beautiful campus and state-of-the-art facilities also played a significant role in my decision, providing an inspiring and conducive environment for my academic journey. Overall, UON offered everything I was looking for in a university, making it the perfect choice to help me achieve my educational and career goals.

As a dedicated Biomedical Science student, my career aspirations are driven by a deep passion for understanding the intricacies of the human body, and a strong desire to make a meaningful impact on healthcare and research. However, I’m currently unsure of which particular career path within the science industry I’d like to take, so I chose to study this subject because of the unlimited possibilities it can provide and because I’m motivated by the potential to contribute to ground-breaking discoveries that can lead to advancements in diagnostics, treatments, and ultimately, the improvement of patients’ lives. My dedication to lifelong learning, ethical research practices, and a genuine desire to improve human health, fuels my determination to achieve these career goals and make a positive difference in the field of biomedical science.

I firmly believe that my academic journey is shaping me into a well-rounded and competent professional, poised to make significant contributions to the field of healthcare and beyond upon graduation. Studying Biomedical Science is equipping me with a strong foundation of knowledge in areas such as biology, chemistry, and physiology. This comprehensive understanding of the human body and its functions is essential for any career within the biomedical sector – it not only prepares me for a range of specialised roles in research, diagnostics, or healthcare, but also enhances my problem-solving and critical thinking abilities, which are invaluable skills in any profession.

As part of my course, I completed a placement at Haleon (formerly GlaxoSmithKline), as an Oral Health Innovation Research Scientist IP. My duties included:

• creating consumer-friendly scientific visualisations
• contributing to the organisation of Haleon’s first PhD symposium
• presenting on racial bias and micro-aggressions
• identifying and evaluating novel technologies
• competitor product evaluation
• adapting scientific concepts for diverse audiences
• learning about the product development pipeline, including intellectual property, patents, and the process of filing for a patent
• developing aqueous and non-aqueous toothpaste formulations in various labs following GLP procedures
• creation of chemical risk assessments
• training in the use of various lab equipment: FRYMA, ESCO and Silverson Sheer Mixer
• microbiology biofilm breakdown testing
• working on cross-functional projects with project management, medical affairs, regulatory affairs, and microbiology

This placement provided me with hands-on experience in professional healthcare/research and allowed me to apply theoretical knowledge gained in my degree to real-world situations, enhancing my understanding of the field. I also developed practical skills, including laboratory techniques, data analysis, and consumer research, which are all crucial skills in the biomedical science industry.

Throughout my placement I was offered opportunities to connect with professionals in the field. Building a network of contacts will be valuable for future job prospects, mentorship, and gaining insights into different career paths. In addition, I was able to explore various career options within biomedical science, by gaining exposure to clinical laboratory work, medical research, healthcare administration, and other areas.

Having a placement on my CV demonstrates practical experience and commitment to the field and will make me stand out in the job application process, increasing the likelihood of securing employment in the future. The particular employability skills I developed during my placement are presentation skills – I had many opportunities to present my findings or work to colleagues, which helped to improve my presentation and public speaking skills; laboratory techniques – as my placement involved laboratory work, it enabled me to become proficient in a variety of laboratory techniques and documentation; and critical thinking – I had opportunities to engage in problem-solving and critical thinking as I worked on complex research projects. This skill is valuable for addressing challenges in various professional settings.

My tips on applying for, or getting the most benefit from a placement, are to make everything you do relevant. If you do a sport, or you volunteer, or have a part-time job, there’s always a soft skill or experience you’ve had that you can relate to the placement you’re applying for. For example, being on a football team demonstrates teamwork, problem solving and time management, as you balance that with your academic studies. Also ensure your CV is relevant and look for a placement that’s interesting to you, as otherwise it may demotivate you from your course.

When you start your placement, always ask questions, no matter how big or small, as the people you work with will recognise that you’re new to the industry and that there may be things you don’t yet understand. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and say yes to any opportunity, task, or project offered (but also don’t be afraid to let your placement provider know if your workload is getting too much).

I’d also advise you to set career goals and specific objectives for what you hope to achieve throughout the year, and actively seek feedback from your supervisor and colleagues – constructive feedback can help you grow and make the most of your placement experience. Keep a record of your accomplishments, projects, and responsibilities during your placement, as this documentation can be useful for updating your CV and showcasing your experience to future employers. Also, networking is key – not just for making relevant connections, but also for understanding their career paths. A lot of people consider a wide range of career paths and academic routes before getting to where they are, so it can really inspire and surprise you. Finally, enjoy the experience.

Aside from my studies, I’m currently a volunteer for a charity called Hosanna House and Children’s Pilgrimage Trust (HCPT). It aims to take disadvantaged and disabled children on a pilgrimage to Lourdes, France, and I assist in the creating, planning and development of successful fundraising events.

If I could give one piece of advice to undergraduates interested in this career path, it would be to not be afraid of seeking guidance and constructive feedback.

In summary, my time at UON has provided me with education, growth, friendships, challenges, memories, independence, and preparation for the future.