research science work experience

Your browser is not supported

Sorry but it looks as if your browser is out of date. To get the best experience using our site we recommend that you upgrade or switch browsers.

Find a solution

• Skip to main content
• Skip to navigation
• Back to parent navigation item
• Career options
• Changing lives
• Fixing the future
• Challenging opinions
• Being the catalyst
• Innovating industry
• Job profiles
• What jobs can I do?
• Employability skills
• What will I earn?

Work experience

• Do I need chemistry to …
• I want to be a teacher
• Teacher training routes in the UK
• Study options
• Options at 14
• Options at 16
• Options for higher education
• Going to university
• Routes into university
• Which degree?
• Which university?
• Student finance
• Earn while you learn
• Which apprenticeship?
• Search and apply
• Preparing for an end-point assessment
• Not a student?
• Information about careers in chemistry
• Supporting and inspiring young people
• Teachers and careers advisers
• Linking curriculum to careers
• Explaining the benefits of a chemistry career
• STEM ambassadors
• Making the difference
• RSC student support

• More navigation items

Where can I get chemistry-related work experience?

It can be hard to get chemistry-related work experience, especially in labs but companies and universities really like students who have the enthusiasm and drive to hunt for a relevant position. Below are some ideas to support your search:

Download our guide to work experience.

Guide to work experience.

• Speak to your careers adviser, chemistry or science teacher about local companies that might offer work experience. Your school may also have a work experience programme. Attending your school careers fairs or employer talks will help you learn about jobs that you might be interested in, or to find out if they offer work experience.
• Look for employers of chemists in your area . Ask if they might have work experience in some of the other business functions within the company. This is a good way to learn more about the uses and applications of chemistry without having to be fully trained to be safe in a laboratory. Contacting general science employers or research institutes, companies on local science parks as well as small and medium enterprises (SMEs) can be useful. SMEs are often more flexible. Be aware that they are more likely to be able to help if you ask them well in advance of when you need to do your placement. You can also follow these companies on social media to find out what they can offer, or ask your family or relatives about how they may be able to help you. T
• Your local hospital is worth approaching for work experience in their research departments, or pathology labs that use a lot of techniques involving chemistry.
• You can also contact your local University’s chemistry department, or schools liaison and outreach team to find out if they can help.

You should keep in mind that it is likely you will not be doing any vital or important tasks during your work experience. Work experience is a great learning experience, and your efforts and interest will not go unnoticed by potential employers and referees for your CV. It is also a good idea to maintain contact with the people you’ve met even after you leave. This can be via email, phone or social media. They may have future job vacancies or be able to help you in some other way.

Whilst the majority of employers will follow employment law, it’s important to  be aware of your own rights  when it comes to work experience, placements or internships. 

The Royal Society of Chemistry does not provide work experience or shadowing opportunities. However, your nearest  Royal Society of Chemistry Local Section  (of which there are 35 throughout the UK and Republic of Ireland) may be able to offer advice on how to find placements in your area. 

Virtual work experience

Below are a few places where you can access virtual work experiences. Also doing a regular internet search for ‘virtual work experience’ will also help discover new schemes as they become established:

• Barclays life skills  - learn new workplace skills
• Springpod  - apply for virtual work experience and university course taster experiences
• Rate my placement  offers a free, flexible programme to upskill individuals in workplace skills and behaviours
• Speakers for schools  - free work experience programme
• Forage - runs virtual work experience programmes with big and small companies that mimics entry-level work. Once enrolled, students are given a hypothetical set of tasks that an employee would expect to complete on a given work day teaching students real skills professionals use daily and connects them to the firms themselves.
• Founder4Schools - free interactive webinars so students can still hear from and interact with the business community

Work shadowing

It is sometimes easier to ask for work shadowing opportunities, rather than hands-on work experience. Work shadowing is usually a shorter experience where someone shows you what they do rather than you doing the work. This is still a good opportunity as it allows you to experience the workplace and ask questions about what their day is like, who they work with and why they enjoy their job. Even if a company are not able to offer work experience, you can still ask if you can speak with someone outside of the lab so they can answer your questions. 

Source: SolStock / E+ / Getty Images

Alternatives 

If you aren’t able to find a suitable chemistry-related work experience, placement or shadowing there are alternatives such as volunteering or other science related work that can still provide practical skills and allow you to explore other futures. Consider volunteering at your  local science festival  or science centre  to see what they offer. The  British Science Association  offer a variety of roles for volunteers as well as one week’s work experience at their offices for low-income individuals. If you’re interested in science communication then volunteering and work experience is very important. The  social mobility fund (SMF ) aims to support young people from low-income backgrounds through specific advice, guidance and by arranging paid internships with companies like EDF Energy and Rolls Royce.

Additional links

• Chemistry World Jobs internships board
• Change 100 interships for students and graduates with disabilities or long-term conditions
• UKSpa  - list of science parks around the UK
• Try contacting your local Education Business Partnership .
• The Nuffield Foundation offer  research placements  to over 1,100 students
• The  CREST Awards  scheme gives students the chance to participate in hands-on science to solve real-life STEM challenges.
• Year in Industry  is the UK’s leading student placement experts who offer one year placements before starting university.
• UK Bioindustry Associations  - list of organisations in the UK bioindustry
• Step into the NHS or  finding work experience in the NHS  (teacher and advisor’s guide) 
• Bright Green Placements  - offers opportunities to students and graduates to work with organisations across Scotland
• Chemagility  - worldwide directory of chemical distribution companies 
• Help is available from  Smart Futures  and  Careersportal  (Republic of Ireland). 
• The British Antarctic Survey work experience opportunities 

Volunteering

• Do-it  (UK-wide)
• Volunteer Scotland
• Volunteering Wales
• Volunteer Now  (Northern Ireland)
• Volunteer Ireland  (Republic of Ireland)

Map of employers

Explore chemical sciences companies who may offer work experience

LATEST JOB PROFILES

Research scientist, microplastics

Sophie is stopping microplastics going into the environment when you wash your clothes

Cosmetics, technical services chemist

 Sharlotte makes environmentally friendly beauty products 

Quality officer, genomics research

Gary helps scientists make breakthroughs by ensuring the data they use is accurate and reliable.  

Chief scientist at agritech company, Lambda Energy

Boris’ technology delivers a larger crop of fruits and vegetables while cutting carbon emissions

Browse all job profiles

• Newsletters

Site powered by Webvision Cloud

Study at Cambridge

About the university, research at cambridge.

• Undergraduate courses
• Events and open days
• Fees and finance
• Postgraduate courses
• How to apply
• Postgraduate events
• Fees and funding
• International students
• Continuing education
• Executive and professional education
• Courses in education
• How the University and Colleges work
• Term dates and calendars
• Visiting the University
• Annual reports
• Equality and diversity
• A global university
• Public engagement
• Give to Cambridge
• For Cambridge students
• For our researchers
• Business and enterprise
• Colleges & departments
• Email & phone search
• Museums & collections

• Cambridge Stem Cell Institute
• About us overview
• Our building overview
• How to find us
• Art at JCBC overview
• Anna Brownsted
• Victoria Morton
• Harold Offeh
• Kelly Briggs
• Public engagement overview
• Reaching beyond Cambridge
• Connecting with local communities
• Giving patients a voice
• Creating an open and engaged research culture
• Under the Microscope
• What would you become?
• You, Me and Us
• Equity, diversity & wellbeing
• For current students
• People overview
• Leadership & governance overview
• Postgraduate Education Committee
• Professional services
• Principal investigators overview
• Dr Maria Alcolea
• Professor Roger Barker
• Dr Thorsten Boroviak
• Dr Harry Bulstrode
• Dr Maria Duque-Correa
• Professor Cédric Ghevaert
• Professor Bertie Göttgens
• Professor Tony Green
• Dr Brian Hendrich
• Dr Daniel Hodson
• Professor Brian Huntly
• Professor Thóra Káradóttir
• Professor Walid Khaled
• Professor Elisa Laurenti
• Professor Andrew McCaskie
• Professor Simón Méndez-Ferrer
• Dr Jyoti Nangalia
• Professor Anna Philpott
• Professor David Rowitch
• Dr Fotios Sampaziotis
• Professor Ben Simons
• Professor Sanjay Sinha
• Dr Mekayla Storer
• Professor Sarah Teichmann
• Dr Richard Tyser
• Dr Konstantinos Tzelepis
• Professor George Vassiliou
• Professor Matthias Zilbauer
• Affiliated principal investigators overview
• Dr Irving Aye
• Dr Srinjan Basu
• Dr Sumru Bayin
• Professor Serena Best
• Professor Allan Bradley
• Professor Sarah Bray
• Professor Ruth Cameron
• Dr Peter Campbell
• Dr Maria Christophorou
• Professor Anne Ferguson-Smith
• Professor Sarah Franklin
• Professor Kristian Franze
• Professor Richard Gilbertson
• Dr Namshik Han
• Professor Muzlifah Haniffa
• Dr Phil Jones
• Dr Golnar Kolahgar
• Dr Mark Kotter
• Dr András Lakatos
• Professor Madeline Lancaster
• Professor Ernest Laue
• Dr Joo-Hyeon Lee
• Professor Paul Lehner
• Dr Mo Lotfollahi
• Dr Florian Merkle
• Professor James Nathan
• Professor Kathy Niakan
• Professor Ewa Paluch
• Dr Manav Pathania
• Dr Emma Rawlins
• Dr Teresa Rayon
• Dr Peter Rugg-Gunn
• Dr Marta Shahbazi
• Professor Azim Surani
• Dr Martin Turner
• Dr Jelle van den Ameele
• Professor Alan Warren
• Professor Doug Winton
• Dr Evgeny Zatulovskiy
• Academic & research staff
• Research overview
• Discovery Research Platform for Tissue Scale Biology
• SCI-TIF - Technology & Innovation Forum
• Stem cell states
• Stem cells in disease
• Stem cells & therapeutics
• Our COVID-19 research
• Clinical trials
• Interdisciplinary Research Centre overview
• Cambridge Centre for Myelin Repair overview
• CCMR PI and Affiliates
• Research culture and integrity overview
• Open access & Plan S
• Guidelines and Policies
• Pluripotency platforms
• Core facilities overview
• Bioinformatics
• Electron microscopy
• Genomics overview
• Submission guidelines
• Flow cytometry
• Single cell platforms
• Tissue culture
• Events overview
• International Seminars overview
• Group Leader Seminars overview
• PhD and Postdoc Seminars overview
• Research Culture & Integrity Seminars overview
• Past Events
• Haematology Event: Cambridge Lymphoma Biology International Symposium
• Christmas Market at JCBC & CRUK
• Learn more overview
• Patient information
• Join us overview
• Students overview
• MPhil in Stem Cell Medicine (taught course)
• PhD in Biological Science (Stem Cell Biology)
• MPhil in Biological Science (Stem Cell Biology)
• Wellcome-funded Four Year (MRes + PhD) Programme in Stem Cell Biology & Medicine overview
• Students: Past & Present
• 1+3 Stem Cell Programme Statistics
• FAQs for Wellcome studentships
• Other funding opportunities
• Work experience & internships
• Equality, diversity & wellbeing (students)
• Institute Only overview
• Wellcome-funded Four Year (MRes + PhD) Programme in Stem Cell Biology & Medicine

Work experience and summer placements

Work experience 2023-2024.

All applications for work experience have now been filled for Spring and Summer 2024. Applicants may apply from October 2024 onwards.

CSCI is committed to taking on work experience students, year 10 and above , to participate in a period of work experience.

Students will have the opportunity to experience ‘live science’ within the Cambridge Stem Cell Institute, a world-leading centre for stem cell research. The work experience placements will take place in our  Principal Investigator’s  labs, observing laboratory skills and techniques carried out by our research scientists.

Application process

Applicants should send a short covering letter (one side of A4 max), outlining why you wish to undertake work experience with us and what areas of science you are particularly interested in and why ( and/or specify a particular Principal Investigator of interest). Please also include a brief CV with your application and the dates that you would like to be considered for work experience. Applications are considered on a rolling basis and it may not be possible to offer work experience placements for all applicants.

Please note that we can only host students in Year 10 (aged 14/15) and above  ( excluding accelerated students ).

Please send all informal queries and/or applications to [email protected] . We will let you know as soon as possible of the outcome.

Nuffield placements

Nuffield Research Placements give students the opportunity to work alongside professional scientists, technologists, engineers and mathematicians for 4-6 weeks over the summer holidays. 

To find out more and to see if you meet the eligibility criteria, visit the Research Placements and Experiences website .

In2scienceUK programme

The In2scienceUK programme helps disadvantaged and under-represented 16-17 year olds (studying at least one STEM subject, either at sixth form or at college) gain an insight into science, technology, engineering or maths. The programme seeks supervisors to host these students for 2-week placements in the summer, and h osts can be anyone from PhD students, to Postdocs, to PIs. 

See here for more information.

Internships

Internships are fixed-term periods of paid work experience, typically lasting 1-3 months. 

You may want to check out the University of Cambridge School of Biological Sciences which run their internship programme Experience Postgrad Life Sciences every year for undergraduates.

In 2021, as a widening participation initiative, ‘ Experience Postgrad Life Sciences programme’, will offer 8-week Summer research placements to second year UK and Republic of Ireland undergraduate students, with priority given to those from underrepresented and disadvantaged groups.

External and existing University of Cambridge students are welcome to apply for internships within the University. To apply for an internship vacancy that you've seen advertised, please visit here for more information.

Please note: Applicants must apply to a specific vacancy - we cannot accept CVs from speculative applicants. 　

Erasmus+ is the European Union’s (EU) funding programme for education and training, youth and sport.　

The University of Cambridge has participated in the Erasmus programme since its inception 25 years ago and in the last few years there has been a substantial increase in student mobility.

Students from institutions with whom we have an Erasmus inter-institutional agreement can come at all levels; undergraduate, Masters and PhD and for one, two or three terms. Applicants must achieve the same entry requirements as students applying for a full degree, this includes an English language requirement. 

For more information about the Erasmus Programme, please visit  Erasmus+ .

Outreach projects - students under 16

Network for East Anglian Collaborative Outreach (neaco)  

The Network for East Anglian Collaborative Outreach (neaco) delivers activities across East Anglia to help students in Years 9-13, with little or no experience of university, to explore the world of higher education.

Find out more here . 

Insight Discover

Insight Discover is a programme that students follow from Year 7 to Year 8, which aims to develop key academic skills to support them in their academic work. In addition, the programme introduces students to university and the options which are available to them in the future. 

Insight Discover is a collaborative programme with The Brilliant Club (see also below) and in the final part of Insight Discover our participants take part in the Brilliant Club’s Scholars Programme .

Insight Explore

Insight Explore is an academic programme for Year 9 students which aims to develop participants interests and tackle the barriers many students face when applying to university.

Find out more here.

The Realise project's aim is to encourage more young people in care to consider higher education. The University of Cambridge runs a large number of events ranging from science days to theatre days to give a taste of life as a student at Cambridge.

Outreach projects – students 16+

HE+ is a collaboration between the University of Cambridge's Admissions Office and Colleges, and state schools/colleges across the UK. The University and schools in 20 regions collaborate to form regional consortia to support highly-able students from under-represented areas and backgrounds, and involves approximately 4,000 students in Year 12 each year.

Find out more here .  

Insight + aims to support students making competitive applications to selective Higher Education Institutions by supporting students over 12 months from Easter in Year 12. Students receive additional subject specific teaching across five subject strands (English, Physics, Maths, Chemistry and History) which is delivered by experience teachers and departmental outreach practitioners.

Sutton Trust Summer Schools

Sutton Trust Summer Schools are free subject-specific residential courses for Year 12 students studying at state-maintained schools in the UK. The five-day summer schools in July and August allow students to explore their interest in one of 26 subjects and gain an insight into what it is like to live and study as a first-year undergraduate student at Cambridge.

Find out more here .

Opportunities for current postgraduate students to get involved with schools or training

If you have a great idea for engagement with community or patient groups, get in touch with the Institute Public Engagement team to discuss support and approaches: [email protected]

The Brilliant Club

Are you a PhD researcher or doctoral graduate who wants to help a young person realise their academic potential?

The Brilliant Club’s 'Researcher Development Programme' offers PhD and Early Career Researchers a meaningful, professionally developmental, paid tutoring opportunity. Training with The Brilliant Club and working as a Scholars Programme tutor enables researchers to communicate their research to a non-specialist audience, gain valuable teaching and public engagement experience and deepen their knowledge of the UK education system.  

Tutors will be supported to complete a series of training modules before beginning work with us, and further continuous professional development for each subsequent placement. 

Get in touch

For information about work experience , contact [email protected]  

For information on internships , contact [email protected]

For information on longer term student placements , contact [email protected]

Other resources

The University of Cambridge  Gurdon Institute  runs an  Aspiring Scientist Training Programme  every year over the Summer. A few of their Group Leaders are affiliated with the Cambridge Stem Cell Institute. 

More information about taking part in work experience at the University of Cambridge can be found  here .

Jeffrey Cheah Biomedical Centre Puddicombe Way Cambridge Biomedical Campus CB2 0AW

[email protected]

Social media

Quick links

Logo and brand guidelines

Data protection policies

Site privacy and cookie policies

Our funders

Medical Research Council

© 2024 University of Cambridge

• Contact the University
• Accessibility
• Freedom of information
• Privacy policy and cookies
• Statement on Modern Slavery
• Terms and conditions
• University A-Z
• Undergraduate
• Postgraduate
• Research news
• About research at Cambridge
• Spotlight on...

Quick links

• Climate change
• COVID-19 research
• Staff profiles

Work experience

Providing first-hand, relevant work experience for students in a scientific environment.

How does it work?

Virtual work experience allows students to undertake science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) projects. Projects are linked to real-world CSIRO research and industry challenges. Experienced CSIRO staff or STEM industry professionals remotely supervise groups of students using a secure online platform. The groups comprise up to five students - who may be remote from each other - and who will work together to complete tasks that can be used as part of portfolios and help inform their study and/or career plans.

Virtual Work Experience also provides students the opportunity to experience contemporary ways of working, such as from home, and with people across geographic boundaries, just as CSIRO scientists do every day.

[Music plays and image appears of an aerial view of Tennant Creek and then the camera zooms in on a rock formation on the ground and then the camera zooms out to show a car driving past the rocks]

[Image changes to show three female students walking past the Tennant Creek High School sign and then the image shows a rear view of the three students walking towards the school building]

Sharon Kurniawan: In the virtual work experience programme we were looking at medical image processing using Anaconda and Python and Jupiter Notebook and things like that.

[Images move through of two students working on a computer together, a close-up view of the computer screen, and then Chin Huan talking to the camera and text appears: Chin Huan, Science & Mathematics Teacher, Tennant Creek High School]

Chin Huan: Our kids are given the opportunities just as any other kids across Australia, regardless of whether you are from the city or from a remote town like Tennant Creek.

[Images move through of the students entering a room and then working on the computer]

Robelyn-Joy Lanas: The main things that we’ve learned during the week was like different types of playing the basics of Python.

[Image changes to show three of the students around a computer in a room]

I also got to work with the people in CSIRO.

[Image changes to show Robelyn-Joy sitting in a chair on a verandah talking to the camera and text appears: Robelyn-Joy Lanas, Tennant Hills High School]

I mean it was very fun. It was really interesting.

[Images move through to show Rob Hollow walking down a corridor, entering a room, talking to the camera, sitting in a chair talking, and then working on a computer and text appears: Rob Hollow, Education & Science Outreach Specialist, Astronomy and Space Science, CSIRO]

Rob Hollow: The virtual work experience programme is a really exciting concept that allows students in regional and remote areas access to a really worthwhile and engaging experience around future career paths without physically having to come into a city or a headquarters like us here in Sydney.

[Image changes to show a goat grazing outside a house, and then the image changes to show a sign on the house wall which reads “Learn from yesterday, live for today, hope for tomorrow]

Kate Barrett: I learned a lot about pulsars because I didn’t know heaps about them.

[Image changes to show a rear view of Kate working on a laptop, and then images move through of the laptop screen she is working on, and then Kate talking to the camera and text appears: Kate Barrett, Brisbane School of Distance Education]

We looked at pulsars in binary systems, so all the different ways that they can interact with other stars and we looked at how they’re formed. I learned a bit about scale.

[Image changes to show a rear view of Kate working at her laptop]

I thought that there’d be a lot sort of within a 100 light years but they’re very spread out.

[Image changes to show Luke looking at Rob Hollow talking on the laptop screen]

Luke Bosnic: Right now, when you’re in school you don’t really get to choose where you live.

[Image changes to show a close view of Luke’s face as he works on the laptop and then the camera zooms in on Rob Hollow talking on the laptop screen]

You just have to, you know, you live where your parents live. It’s not like I could just buy a house in the city and live there.

[Image changes to show Luke sitting in a chair and talking to the camera and then the image changes to show a side facing view of Luke talking and text appears: Luke Bosnic, Peninsular Grammar]

So, it would be really unfair. Everyone should have the same opportunities.

[Image changes to show Sophie Hawke talking to the camera and text appears: Sophie Hawke, Tennant Creek High School]

Sophie Hawke: We did have a lot of connection errors.

[Image changes to show Kaitlyn Fraser sitting on a bench talking to the camera and text appears: Kaitlyn Fraser, Tennant Creek High School]

Kaitlyn Fraser: Sometimes we would have problems with the Wi-Fi or connection but…

[Image changes to show Sharon sitting in a chair in a classroom talking to the camera and text appears: Sharon Kurniawan, Tennant Creek High School]

Sharon Kurniawan: You can’t really do anything about it and like you have to work with what you’ve got.

[Image changes to show Rob working on a computer and then the image changes to show a close view of Rob talking to the camera and then the camera zooms out on Rob talking]

Rob Hollow: Students in these regional remote areas, you know they might be in a very small school, they might be in a central school where there’s only a handful of students in their year level.

[Camera zooms in on Rob talking and then the image changes to show a profile view of Luke and then the image changes to show Rob sitting in a chair talking to the camera]

By having a virtual experience like this where they can come online, interact with other keen students from other, other areas, it provides an opportunity that otherwise they’re denied.

[Image changes to show Dr Susmita Saha sitting in a chair talking to the camera and text appears: Dr Susmita Saha, Postdoctoral Fellow, Australian e-Health Research Centre, CSIRO]

Dr Susmita Saha: It was really encouraging for us to know that such remote schools are really interested about STEM.

[Image changes to show Sophie and Robelyn-Joy talking and smiling and then the image changes to show Susmita talking on the screen]

The students actually showed a great level of enthusiasm but I should say that I enjoyed that too.

[Image changes to show Susmita talking to the camera]

So, that was actually encouraging both ways.

[Music plays and the CSIRO logo and text appears on a blue screen: CSIRO, Australia’s innovation catalyst]

• View transcript
• Copy embed code

Share & embed this video

https://vimeo.com/380358307

<iframe src="//player.vimeo.com/video/380358307" width="640" height="360" frameborder="0" allow="autoplay; fullscreen" allowfullscreen></iframe>

Eligibility

To be eligible to do virtual work experience with CSIRO, students must be:

• in year 10 or 11, and aged 15-17 years for the duration of the work experience
• enrolled in a school in Australia
• able to commit to a designated week between April and December 2024
• be supported by a teacher, parent or other approved adult in their physical location throughout their work experience project.

More information

Frequently asked questions.

Virtual Work Experience enables student to undertaken collaborative, group science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) projects, linked to real-world research and industry challenges.

2019 pilot program

CSIRO is providing work experience for high school students using the innovative Virtual Work Experience model that was successfully piloted in 2019.

Latest news

Virtual work experience onboard our rv investigator.

Our team on research vessel Investigator is using virtual technologies to put people into places, roles and experiences not otherwise possible.

Find out how we can help you and your business. Get in touch using the form below and our experts will get in contact soon!

CSIRO will handle your personal information in accordance with the Privacy Act 1988 (Cth) and our Privacy Policy .

Enter a valid email address, for example [email protected]

A Country value must be provided

First name must be filled in

Surname must be filled in

Please choose an option

Organisation must be filled in

Please provide a subject for the enquriy

We'll need to know what you want to contact us about so we can give you an answer

We have received your enquiry and will reply soon.

We're Sorry

The contact form is currently unavailable. Please try again later. If this problem persists, please call us with your enquiry on 1300 363 400 or +61 3 9545 2176. We are available from 9.00 am to 4.00 pm AEST Monday - Friday.

• Our strategy
• Our leadership
• How we’re funded
• Our history
• Therapeutics
• Diagnostics development
• Funding, projects and partnerships
• Available technologies
• IP management and tech transfer
• Early ventures
• Policy and public affairs
• Motor Neuron Disease
• Chronic Respiratory Infection
• Antimicrobial Resistance
• Neglected Tropical Diseases
• Emerging Viral Threats
• Rare Disease
• Childhood Cancer
• Benefits and rewards
• Early careers
• Current vacancies

Virtual work experience

Step into the shoes of a lifearc team member and complete tasks that replicate the work that our biology research team does everyday..

Duration: 4-6 hours

Sign up at any time

Course information

Who is it for.

Anyone keen to gain work experience or discover more about life sciences at LifeArc can complete the programme. It is particularly suited to first- and second-year undergraduates who may not be eligible for in-person work experience programmes.

The course outline

This bespoke LifeArc programme has four modules on Biology at LifeArc. You can complete the modules at your own pace – it should take you approximately 4-6 hours in total. You’ll gain skills that could help with your onward studies and you’ll also receive a certificate that you can add to your CV and LinkedIn profile to stand out from the crowd.

What will you learn?

You’ll learn how to optimise experimental conditions, analyse data to determine optimal conditions, synthesise evidence and present your results. This is carried out through 4 modules.

1. Optimise experimental conditions In this module, you’ll learn how to design a multiplexed experiment to optimise an in vitro neuronal differentiation protocol.

Practical skills include:

• Critical analysis
• Extracting relevant information
• Experimental controls

2. Analyse data to determine optimal conditions In the second section, you’ll learn about visualising and performing statistical analysis of experimental data from an imaging assay using RStudio, which you can download for free.

• Data visualisation
• Statistical analysis
• Reporting analysis & results

3. Synthesising evidence and collaboration Here, you’ll see how to integrate the results of your data analysis with findings by your colleague and discuss a way forward.

• Data analysis
• Collaboration
• Communication
• Adaptability

4. Present your results In the final module, we’ll guide you on how to present your and your colleague’s experimental results and provide suggestions for the way forward.

• Presentation of data results

Strengthen your CV as you explore career options.

The virtual work experience programme is an excellent opportunity to see what the day-to-day workings of an industrial research scientist looks like. The lessons are online, so while we may not be in the lab, these skills are the bread and butter of innovation.” Finbar, Scientist in Molecular and Cellular Pharmacology

More career opportunities

Fellowship opportunities

Industrial placement opportunities

Opportunity Assessment Group (OAG) internship

In submitting your personal data via this form, you consent to being contacted via the details provided so that your enquiry can be responded to. If you would like your data to be removed, please email [email protected].

Please see our Privacy Policy in relation to the personal data you submit to us through this page.

Employers and Universities: Work with us?

Register  |  Login

• Apprenticeships
• Career zones

Employers offering science work experience

Whether you’re sure you want to be an astronomer or you’re thinking you might make a brilliant biologist, getting yourself some science work experience is a must.

Work experience lets you see what a real working environment is like. You get to test out your skills in real-life situations. If you think you’d like to pursue a career in science, it’s an excellent way to develop your abilities and makes a strong addition to your CV. And if you’re not sure whether a science job is right for you, doing a science work experience placement is the way to find out. If you then decide you want to follow a totally different career, that’s absolutely fine: the work experience will still be really valuable.

Here we’ll take a look at different kinds of placements, including chemistry work experience and physics work experience, and exactly where you can apply for one.

Read this first: What are science jobs and how can I get one

Where to find... general science work experience

Many schools set aside a week or two during for Year 10 students to complete work experience. Then the summer holidays after Year 12 or Year 13 are a good time to organise your own work experience.

The best approach is to contact local organisations in your area and ask if they might be able to offer you some work experience – plenty will do so even if they’re not offering a formal placement. Start your search at least six months before you want to start your placement. We won’t sugarcoat it: it can be difficult to find lab work experience if you’re in year 10 but if you can get work experience in the office of a science company, this will still be extremely valuable for your CV.

Read more:  Why should I study a STEM course?

You could also apply for a Nuffield Research Placement. This organisation gives more than 1,000 students each year the chance to work alongside professional scientists, technologists, engineers and mathematicians. You’re eligible to apply if you’re over 16 and are studying science, technology, engineering of maths course at a school or college in the UK – and most of these placements go to students from low-income households. The placements might focus on data science, engineering or computer science – and you might find yourself in an office, lab or out in the field. Check out these stories to see where previous students have had their placements.

Another option is to contact the British Science Association – they sometimes offer science work experience placements to over 16s. You can also try the Rutherford Appleton Laboratory , which offers a few placements for years 10-13.

Where to find… physics work experience

Start by Googling physics companies – this will include manufacturers, research organisations and pharmaceutical companies. Search and apply as soon as possible; placements are usually competitive.

Don’t forget to also check out the physics departments of universities. University College London, University of Oxford and Sheffield University are among those that offer a range of physics work experience placements for 16-18 year olds. The University of York has placements for Year 12s.

Read:  Four famous women in science—and what inspired them in school

The Particle Physics Masterclass Programme gives you a taster of the world of physics through one-day events at universities and labs across the UK. They are aimed at students taking particle physics modules at AS or A-level. Some universities will run days specifically for GCSE students. The events include hands-on workshops, lectures and lab tours. Learn more and apply here .

Where to find… biology work experience

Again your first port of call should be to reach out to organisations in your local area. Consider natural history museums, science museums, wildlife conservation organisations, the biology departments of universities, zoos, laboratories, pharmaceutical companies and vets’ practices. Many placements are not advertised so make sure to be proactive and contact them.

The Met Office offers a week’s work experience in the summer term for students aged between 14 and 18, giving an opportunity to take part in group projects.

GlaxoSmithKline , who make content for websites,  offer work experience in labs at three locations across the UK. There are different programmes for A-level and GCSE students, and you’ll get to see what working at GSK and in the pharmaceutical industry is like. Depending on the specific scheme, you might develop your employability skills by taking part in presentations and shadowing GSK staff.

The Wellcome Sanger Institute (a genome science research institute) offers placements for students based in the Cambridge area. You’ll see what the institute does and get an insight into a specific area of research.

Where to find… chemistry work experience

Make a list of manufacturing companies, local science parks, local hospitals and research institutes. Ask if they can offer a science work experience placement or shadowing, ensuring that you give them plenty of notice.

Companies that make food, cosmetic products or even clothing, as well as pharmaceutical companies and chemists like Boots, are a good option for chemistry students, while university chemistry departments may also offer you a placement. Again it can be tricky to get a placement in a lab, but any experience will be useful, and shows future employers your dedication and resourcefulness.

You might also want to explore doing work experience in healthcare. We’ve got a dedicated guide to NHS work experience here .

If you’re struggling to get yourself a placement in a lab or similar environment, a good alternative is to volunteer in a related area. Look out for opportunities at science festivals, and local science museums or centres.

Related posts

How to become a scientist without going to uni

Image credit

Lab scientist by zaozaa09 via Freepik

Latest jobs

Sign up to our newsletter

Get test careers advice and info on apprenticeships and school leaver jobs.

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology

One of the world's leading research institutes, our scientists are working to advance understanding of biological processes at the molecular level - providing the knowledge needed to solve key problems in human health.

The LMB offers a variety of work experience placements for students in Years 10 to 13 (aged 14 and above). Our placements provide hands-on experience of working in an academic research institute. Placements may be within an LMB  research group ,  scientific facility  or  support services , highlighting the variety of roles that underpin our cutting edge research.

We have partnered with  Form the Future  to offer in-person placements to underrepresented students at the LMB during the summer. Form the Future, a not-for-profit careers and employment company, was founded in 2015 to help young people find their route through education into employment and provide employers access to their future talent. Committed to each stage of young people’s development, the dedicated team provides schools, colleges and other groups with high-quality outsourced Careers Education, Information, Advice and Guidance (CEIAG) services.

The deadline for 2024’s applications has passed.

Additional placements will be advertised via this webpage when they become available.

If you are an undergraduate student, you may be interested in our  Student Placement Scheme .

For any questions relating to work experience, please email  Public Engagement Team .   

Placement length

Depending which placement you apply for, the advert will tell you how long they run. Advertised work experience placements from the LMB can vary from 1-2 weeks (usually in July and August).

If selected for work experience, you will be expected to attend all days of the placement.

Food and travel expenses

For all students who applied to an advertised work experience placement via Form the Future or via our website we will cover reasonable travel expenses and offer a voucher to cover food and refreshments (approx. £5 a day) throughout their placement. This is given as a voucher which is covered in cost after spending by the LMB.

Quotes from 2023 placements

Siena – hosted by Magda Sutcliffe

“I really enjoyed the setting. LMB is so welcoming and different to anything I have ever seen. Learning to use the various equipment was great.

I plan on pursuing medicine and so seeing how the lab work can be applied to healthcare was extremely useful. It also provided the possibility of an alternative lab job in the future.”

Tolu – hosted by Magda Sutcliffe

“I really enjoyed the experience at the LMB. My highlights were going into the lab and doing hands on work instead of just observing. It emphasises the difference between small school labs and real-world labs. 

I want to study pharmacy, and this has solidified my decision as I’ve read an article that shows how molecular biology and pharmacy link and how it affects the medical industry.”

Annabelle – hosted by Millie-Jane Adcock

“The highlights of my time at the LMB were gaining new lab skills such as using pipettes and various robots. 

This experience has sparked an interest in laboratory work and careers in research because I found the work very interesting and enjoyed working in the laboratory environment.”

Summer – hosted by Lori Passmore

“I really enjoyed having a tour of the building to see all the equipment that gets used and learning how it’s used to aid research. I also really enjoyed the hands-on experience and getting to help conduct real experiments to see how methods are used and build my confidence and skills when doing practical work. 

I felt free to ask questions about university and career paths after that and I received informative, honest answers. I plan on doing a biochemistry degree at university, and this placement confirmed that this is definitely the route I want to take.”

Mariana – hosted by Lori Passmore

“Throughout this fantastic experience, I aided in a variety of experiments but my favourite has to be the CPF PAS changing an immature mRNA into a mature mRNA. Although the knowledge needed is years away in my academic career my hosts always ensured I understood, breaking down concepts and applying it to facts I learn in my current A-levels.

Originally, I worried about the work life balance in a research lab, but I learnt the lab is a community of people who consistently share knowledge and help each other. I plan to follow a more research focused life plan.”

Rami – hosted by Boglárka Anna Vámos

“Some of the highlights at the LMB was discovering how researchers used Cryo-electron microscopy to understand Alzheimer’s and even won an award, I found that quite inspiring. I also enjoyed using new tools and equipment for example centrifuges and vortex and learning a new way of pipetting I thought that was really engaging.

My time at the LMB has given me some clarification that I would like to do a health science (biomedicine) as before I wasn’t quite sure as I knew the content that would be taught but wasn’t sure what type of practical things I could be doing. I’ve never had any hands-on experience outside of school, so this was really eye opening and a unique opportunity to have.” 

Raufaeel – hosted by Andy Howe

“The highlight of my time at the LMB was learning to solder as it was a new skill.

The placement has been useful in helping me make decisions about my future because I was able to receive career advice from experts and it allowed me to understand the potential risks and benefits of each one of my ideas.”

Quotes from 2022 placements

“Working in a research-focused environment was something I found very enjoyable. I liked the emphasis on taking the time to do something right instead of making something commercially for a profit.”

“My time at the LMB was my first hands-on experience in a lab outside of school. During this time, I really enjoyed learning about and seeing what a career in science might look like. I particularly enjoyed learning about and examining  Drosophila melanogaster , as well as learning about how they could be used to aid research and test out theories in the lab. I also thoroughly enjoyed carrying out a bacterial protein expression and learning about the science behind this.”

“My time at the LMB has certainly been very helpful in guiding my decision-making over my future career, as it has given me first-hand insight into what a career in science might entail. I had a great time while I was here, and I plan to pursue a career in this field.”

• Accreditation
• Research Team
• Professional Certificates
• Specialization
• Postgraduate Research & Teaching
• Biomedical Research Training
• Health & Medicine Training
• Engineering Professional Training
• Researcher Training Programme

Biomedical Science

Research training (virtual internship).

In the relentless pursuit of unraveling the mysteries of the human body and advancing healthcare, Biomedical Science stands as a pillar of discovery. Now, the world of Biomedical Science research is accessible to passionate learners globally through virtual training. Join us on an exciting journey into this dynamic field, where the intricacies of human health and disease are decoded through the lens of digital education. This training will provide you with the essential skills and knowledge to become a successful Biomedical Science researcher. Biomedical Science training provides a solid foundation in the fundamental principles of research in this area. It will equip you with the knowledge and understanding of performing literature reviews in Biomedical Science. To stay competitive in the field of Biomedical Science research, universities and organizations need experienced Biomedical Science experts with research skills and an understanding of cutting-edge methods. Bridge the gap between theory and application with a focus on translational research.

This 4-week training is designed to equip you with the knowledge you need to apply in Biomedical Science research. It will train you to perform research in an international research environment. Through the 4-week virtual training, you’ll gain the knowledge and skills required to participate in Biomedical Science research. It aims to provide essential knowledge for developing your early research career in the Biomedical Science field. Customize your learning experience to fit your schedule with the flexibility of online training. Access materials, and research tasks at your own pace, accommodating work, personal commitments, and different time zones.

Start Date:  20 Aug 2024

Duration:  1 month (4 weeks)

Delivery: Online

Workload:  6-8 hours per week

Registration: Register here

Contact: Elisa Hampson [email protected]

TRAINING OUTCOMES

• Develop a deep understanding of the fundamental principles of Biomedical Science research
• Acquire a comprehensive knowledge of literature reviews and developing a research proposal
• Gain a comprehensive understanding of the scholarly landscape in your field

Develop critical thinking skills to Biomedical Science knowledge in research

• Engage in research tasks related to Biomedical Science research

TRAINING CONTENT

The online distance-learning delivery of the training will provide opportunities to receive expertise from the Cambridge Centre for Innovation and Development (CamCID) researchers and material from our partners.

• Week 1: Literature review: During the first week of your virtual training, you will gain experience in literature reviewing and finding articles using research databases and search engines. Explore the techniques of effective introduction, discussion, and conclusion that elevate a research paper to captivating narratives. Gain a comprehensive understanding of the scholarly landscape in your field, learning how to identify key contributors, seminal works, and evolving trends. Develop the skills to critically evaluate research studies, synthesize findings, and identify gaps in current knowledge. Develop strategies for comparing and contrasting diverse perspectives and creating a research topic. Uncover the secrets of well-structured research papers, from the formulation of research topics to the summarizing of key information.
• Week 2: Developing a research proposal:  Immerse yourself in the foundational principles of research proposal development, gaining insights into the key components that define a successful research project. Explore the template and methodologies used across disciplines, tailoring your understanding to the unique demands of your field. You will gain knowledge in writing your research proposal. You will develop your research idea in week 2 and learn to develop a research plan for your idea. Master the art of crafting clear, focused, and impactful research questions that lay the groundwork for your entire proposal. Engage in tasks that guide you through the process of refining and structuring research inquiries that drive meaningful investigations. Explore the significance of reviewing literature and a well-defined conceptual framework in providing the theoretical underpinnings of your research. Learn to present your research idea coherently and compellingly.
• Week 3: Data analysis:  In week 3, you will learn to perform data analysis and statistical analysis in research. You will be given different research tasks to perform data analysis. Engage in practice tasks that reinforce your understanding of statistical fundamentals, ensuring a solid grasp of the analytical toolkit. Navigate the landscape of statistical techniques, learning how to choose the most appropriate methods based on your research questions and data characteristics. Gain practical experience with statistical tools and/or software, translating theoretical knowledge into actionable skills.

Week 4: Research project:  You will work on a short literature review project and apply your knowledge of your area in your research task. The research project aims to improve your academic writing, research, critical thinking, and literature search skills. The project offers a roadmap to construct literature reviews that resonate with depth, coherence, and scholarly impact. Navigate through databases, academic journals, and other resources to compile a rich array of literature relevant to your research. Develop the skills to critically evaluate research studies, synthesize findings, and identify gaps in current knowledge. 

Entry Requirements

• This training starts with a beginner level and progresses towards the mid and advanced levels. However, prior research experience is not required.
• This training is designed for all levels of students (Undergraduate students, Master's degree students, or Ph.D.).
• Our online training is taught in English. Therefore, you must have good English language skills.

Certificate of Completion

After completing all the parts of this Research Training (Virtual Internship), you will be provided with an e-certificate of completion at Cambridge Centre for Innovation and Development (CamCID).

Career Opportunities

This virtual training is designed to aid professional development in the field of Biomedical Science in research, enabling you to further your expertise within an existing career path or to change career direction, for example, into a Biomedical Science researcher. Here are several career paths that individuals with expertise in this field may pursue:

• Biomedical Scientist/Researcher
• Biomedical Researcher
• Clinical Trial Coordinator
• Research Assistant

Joining a virtual internship in Biomedical Science research provides a strong foundation for a research career that aims to advance your understanding of Biomedical Science and improve treatment outcomes. Whether in academia, industry, or healthcare, individuals with this expertise play a crucial role in the ongoing fight against several diseases.

Design AND Delivery

This online training is delivered on our virtual learning platform (Moodle). The training is self-paced and it can be completed on your schedule within the training's duration. The training includes recorded guides, templates, learning material, ebooks, and research-based tasks. It is designed by the CamCID Research Team and Guest Lecturers (faculty members from international universities).

Fees and Funding

UK and International: £229 (including electronic certificate).

CAMBRIDGE CENTRE FOR INNOVATION AND DEVELOPMENT ©

We are an accredited Continuing Professional Development (CPD) provider. We offer virtual training and research skills development opportunities.

Useful information

Privacy Policy

Cookie Policy

[email protected]

College House, 2nd Floor

17 King Edwards Road

HA4 7AE, London

United Kingdom

Study at Cambridge

About the university, research at cambridge.

• Events and open days
• Fees and finance
• Student blogs and videos
• Why Cambridge
• Qualifications directory

How to apply

• Fees and funding
• Frequently asked questions
• International students
• Continuing education
• Executive and professional education
• Courses in education
• How the University and Colleges work
• Visiting the University
• Term dates and calendars
• Video and audio
• Find an expert
• Publications
• International Cambridge
• Public engagement
• Giving to Cambridge
• For current students
• For business
• Colleges & departments
• Libraries & facilities
• Museums & collections
• Email & phone search
• Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute
• Work experience and internships
• Transparency in research
• Support our research
• Virtual tour
• Research involving animals
• Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
• Response to COVID-19
• Getting here
• Research Groups
• Core Facilities
• Life at the Institute
• Career development
• College membership
• Support and supervision
• Student community
• Student Testimonials
• Undergraduate Summer Research Programme
• Cambridge Makerere Summer School
• Cambridge Festival
• Institute news
• CRUK Science Blog
• Our Progress

Careers Lab: work experience programme

Take your first step into a career in cancer research.

Our Careers Lab Work Experience Programme provides sixth form (Year 12 and Year 13) students with a week-long opportunity to explore various career paths within the Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute. Aimed at those interested in gaining practical insights into different professional fields, the programme challenges preconceptions about working in science while aligning with our mission to our aim to beat cancer sooner.

We currently offer two distinct types of placement:

1) Year 12/13 Research Placement 

Engage in hands-on experiences within our cutting-edge research laboratories, delving into the world of cancer biology. Gain exposure to state-of-the-art Core Facilities, teams dedicated to developing and applying specific technologies, and learn from experts in microscopy, genomics and animal technology. While each placement is unique to its research group, expect to acquire skills and experiences such as:

• How to culture cells
• Tissue staining techniques
• Understanding the basics of microscopy and tissue compositions
• How to isolate and multiply DNA

2) Year 12/13 Operations Placement  

Explore non-scientific roles within our Operations Team, responsible for the seamless functioning of the Institute. This placement offers insights into various departments, including Finance & Grants, Human Resources, and Property Services. Our operations staff come from a range of backgrounds, and no scientific background is required for this placement. Rotations could include:

• Managing a multi-million-pound portfolio of grants
• Attracting top scientists to join our labs
• Creating a culture where science and fun intersect
• Creating and maintaining the physical environment of the Institute

Whether you’re passionate about science or seeking a non-scientific career path to enable vital cancer research, our programme opens doors to a diverse range of opportunities within the Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute.

Eligibility

Applicants must be enrolled in sixth form, or equivalent, and currently in Year 12 or Year 13.

What are we looking for?

• Interest in the programme: We seek candidates who genuinely demonstrate a keen interest in the Careers Lab programme, showcasing a passion for the opportunities it presents and a clear understanding of how it aligns with their personal and professional goals.
• Intellectual curiosity: We value candidates who exhibit a strong sense of intellectual curiosity, an eagerness to explore new ideas, and a proactive approach to learning. Individuals who enjoy delving into diverse topics and consistently seek to broaden their knowledge are highly regarded.
• Perseverance: Perseverance is a key attribute we look for in candidates. We seek individuals who demonstrate resilience, determination, and the ability to navigate challenges effectively. Candidates who view setbacks as opportunities for growth and consistently strive to overcome obstacles align well with this criterion.
• Commitment to improving the lives of others: We are interested in candidates who show a genuine commitment to making a positive impact on the lives of others. This can manifest in various forms, such as a dedication to community service, a passion for social causes, or a desire to contribute to the well-being and advancement of individuals and communities.

Applicants are encouraged to reflect on these criteria and showcase specific examples from their experiences that highlight their alignment with these qualities.

• Application Period: 10 January 10 – 12 February 2024
• Interviews Scheduled (Virtual): February – March 2024
• Reference Check for Shortlisted Candidates: Mid-March 2024
• Final Placements Confirmation: Late April 2024
• Careers Lab Programme (In Person): 1 July – 5 July 2024

Application form:

• Complete a 5-10 minute form providing academic and personal details.
• Express why you are interested in applying for the Careers Lab programme.

Careers Lab personal statement (within the application form): Respond to the following prompts within the application form:

• In no more than 100 words, explain why you are applying for this programme.
• In no more than 100 words, describe the skills you currently possess and identify the skills you need to gain for success in your dream career.

Sixth Form College Reference: If shortlisted for an interview, we will contact a member of staff at your school or sixth form colleg e. They will be asked to provide an assessment based on the following criteria:

• Interest in the programme
• Intellectual curiosity
• Perseverance
• Commitment to improving the lives of others

Applications for 2024 have now closed. Please check back in the new year for future opportunities.

How we select

Careers Lab uses a comprehensive two-stage selection process to ensure that our placements align with our criteria:

Application Form: To be considered for a Careers Lab Work Experience placement for Year 12/13, completion of the application form in full is mandatory.

Shortlisting and Interview: Shortlisted candidates are invited to a virtual interview to assess their alignment with the four Careers Lab criteria. The brief interview will assess your motivations for applying to the programme. Alternative arrangements will be made to accommodate individuals with limited internet accessibility.

Details about the format and arrangements will be sent according to the application timeline. The interview consists of three main sections:

• Welcome and introduction
• Interview questions
• Final thoughts and answering your questions

If not called for an interview, you will receive an email confirming that your application was not successful.

Please note that we are not able to provide feedback to unsuccessful applicants.

Contact us: [email protected] with any additional queries!

Undergraduate Summer Research Placements

If you are an undergraduate student, looking to find a research placement over the summer vacation period, please visit our Summer Research Placements page.

For any other questions, please get in touch using our contact form .

CRUK CI staff links

Contact cruk ci, useful links.

• Privacy statement
• Terms and conditions

Connect with us

© 2024 University of Cambridge

• University A-Z
• Contact the University
• Accessibility
• Freedom of information
• Undergraduate
• Spotlight on...
• About research at Cambridge

This Site Uses Cookies

We may use cookies to record some preference settings and to analyse how you use our web site. We may also use external analysis systems which may set additional cookies to perform their analysis.These cookies (and any others in use) are detailed in our site privacy and cookie policies and are integral to our web site. You can delete or disable these cookies in your web browser if you wish but then our site may not work correctly.

• Equality, Diversity and Inclusion
• Strategy and Funding
• Influencing Policy
• Research Policies
• Branding and Logos
• Admin Groups
• Campus Connections
• Collaborations
• Sanger Projects
• Publications
• Sanger Seminar Series
• Associate Faculty
• Honorary Faculty
• International Fellows
• Science Staff
• Non-science Staff
• Innovation at the Institute
• For Industry
• For Researchers
• Case Studies
• Our Spin-Outs
• Sanger Technologies

Work Experience 

Our Mission

Our mission is clear: to offer inspiring and inclusive work experience opportunities that empower young individuals, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds, to explore the exciting world of genomics. We firmly believe that by opening our doors to students, we not only contribute to their personal growth but also contribute to the advancement of scientific understanding in genomics.

What We Offer

Work experience opportunity

An opportunity for a Year 12 or Year 13 student to join the laboratory team in Dr Carl Anderson’s research group, part of the Human Genetics Programme at the Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus.

Dates:  Tuesday 27 – Friday 30 August 2024, apply by 9am on Tuesday 23 July.

Would you like to gain experience in scientific research into human disease? Dr Carl Anderson’s team have a special interest in the genetics of Inflammatory Bowel Disease including Crohn’s Disease and Ulcerative Colitis. Working with human gut biopsies and blood, the team uses single cell sequencing technology to generate data which is analysed to identify the genetic causes of disease, and why some people do not react to treatment.

This will be an immersive opportunity to join both wet- and dry-lab teams. You’ll see and participate (where appropriate) in tissue sample processing, prepare cDNA for sequencing and analyse the quality of DNA samples. You’ll also join the Human Genetics Informatics team to learn about gene structure and public genome databases. You’ll have the opportunity to participate in research discussions and learn about our ongoing nationally-run study, IBD-RESPONSE.

Who is this work experience placement for?

Applications are invited from students in Year 12 and above with an interest in disease and human genetics.

Where is it taking place?

Wellcome Sanger Institute, Wellcome Genome Campus, Hinxton, CB10 1SA

How do I apply?

Applications should be made here: via this form by 9am on Tuesday 23 July.

We have space for one student. The successful applicant will be notified by email.

Why Choose Work Experience at Sanger Institute?

Inclusive Opportunities : We are committed to diversity and inclusivity, striving to provide opportunities for students from all backgrounds to explore genomics.

Hands-On Learning : We offer practical, hands-on experiences that go beyond classroom learning, allowing students to engage with cutting-edge research and technologies.

Expert Guidance : Interact with seasoned professionals and researchers who are passionate about sharing their knowledge and guiding students in their career aspirations.

Inspiring Environment : Immerse yourself in the dynamic and collaborative atmosphere of Sanger Institute, where breakthroughs in genomics are a daily occurrence.

Apply Today

Are you ready to embark on a journey of discovery and learning in the field of genomics? Join us in shaping the future of science and technology. Apply for our various work experience opportunities today and take your first step towards a career in genomics.

Note: Our programs have specific eligibility criteria. Please refer to the individual program links for more information on how to apply and whether you qualify for participation.

Enquire now

Please keep an eye on this page as we will have more opportunities coming up in 2024.

For any enquiries or further information, please contact us at [email protected] . We look forward to helping you take your first steps into the world of genomics!

For more placement options please sign up to our mailing list: [email protected]

Connecting Science

Connect with the diverse range of communities, learners, educators and researchers, creating opportunities and spaces to explore genomic science and its impact on people. ...more

• Work Experience Industries
• Science and Research Internships and Placements

Science & Research Internships, Placements and Graduate Jobs 2025

Your one-stop guide to launching a career in science and research; including how to get work experience, where to find the best internships and much more.

No longer confined to laboratories, scientists have a hand in almost every aspect of our lives: be it providing access to clean water, developing vaccines to target viruses or tackling climate change.

Pursuing a career in science and research will see you pushing boundaries, making discoveries and developing new technologies - all in aid of improving lives. It’s a fascinating and highly rewarding line of work.

But to break into the industry and get that competitive advantage over your peers, you’ll need to equip yourself with first-hand experience in the workplace. The best way to do this is through acquiring science and research internships or placements.

Not sure where to start? Science is a galactic industry that reaches far and wide. So, we’ve divvied up this guide into nice bite-sized sections to help you navigate your way around:

Science internships

Science placements

Research Internships

Biomedical science placements

Pharmaceutical internships

Science graduate jobs

Best Student Employers

Science internship reviews

Top Placements, Internships and Graduate Jobs in Science & Research

View all jobs

How do I get work experience in science?

It’s all very well being an expert on gene cloning or molecular orbital theory, but if you don’t have the technical skills to back this knowledge up, you’re not going to get very far in the workplace.

So, it’s absolutely crucial that you take on a science internship or placement whilst you’re still at university. Employers flip out over students who have made the effort to get this sort of experience. In fact, they increasingly use this work experience as a talent-spotting exercise for their graduate schemes.

If you stand out during your science internship, your employer might even offer you a graduate role at the end (or at least fast-track your application) - which would be a huge weight off your mind during your final year of university.

So let’s take a look at your options...

Science Internships

The majority of science internships take place in the summer months, lasting anywhere from one to four months. If you really want to get ahead, you may even be able to squeeze more than one internship into your long summer break.

Not only is this a genius way of occupying those long university holidays, but the more you do, the better idea you’ll have of where you want to take your career.

What does a science intern do?

Science interns tend to work in data analytics. They spend their days investigating a wide range of data and presenting their findings to the rest of the team.

Occasionally, they’ll be asked to carry out computer science or mathematical tasks as well, such as researching new algorithms or approaches to machine learning.

Whatever you end up doing, science internships allow you to apply the knowledge you’ve gained at university to real-world problems - which could help you attain those top grades when you return to your studies...

"The tasks are tailored to my university degree and personal development to make sure I get the most from the experience. I focused on tablet manufacturing as I knew it would be in my curriculum for the next year of university and I came out with 99.2% due to my knowledge from the placement." Summer Intern at GSK

Funding for science internships

It’s worth bearing in mind that science internships are often unpaid, although most positions are funded through research grants, departmental projects and research scholarships.

The Royal Society of Chemistry’s Undergraduate Research Bursary , for instance, supports students carrying out research internships by covering their wages for 35 hours per week at the UK National Living Wage (£10.42 per hour from April 2023) - for up to eight weeks.

A number of organisations give out bursaries to help interns cover their costs. Make sure you do your research thoroughly as the requirements and application process vary greatly. Head over to British Neuroscience Association’s website for a comprehensive list of funding bodies .

Science Placements

Placements are essentially the same as internships - only they last longer. You’ll spend up to a whole year working full-time for an employer.

A science placement is your chance to show initiative, make a good impression and start building an invaluable network of industry contacts.

You’ll also get an insight into how the company operates and what your specific role entails - all while advancing your own technical skills and academic knowledge - like this placement student at Pfizer.

"My placement year was an extremely valuable experience that enabled me to gain an insight into the industry, expand my professional network and develop skills that will help me in my future career. This has opened my eyes to the range of career opportunities available in the industry." Undergraduate Community and STEM Project Manager at Pfizer

Internships in Research

Naturally curious? Want to be at the forefront of scientific development? As a research scientist, you’ll be responsible for designing, conducting and analysing the results of cutting-edge experiments.

However, research and development (R&D) is a tough field to get into. Employers look for bright candidates with inquisitive minds, and postgraduate qualifications - such as a Master’s degree or PhD - are often a requirement.

Not to worry, there are plenty of research internship opportunities in the UK that can give you the experience you need to go far in this career.

A research internship won’t see you staring into Petri dishes all day long. Instead, it is a chance to work alongside leading scientists on actual research projects.

What does a research intern do?

As a research intern, you’ll have a wide range of roles and responsibilities. One minute you might be compiling data, and the next implementing ideas or helping your team write papers.

In general, you’ll be expected to carry out the following tasks:

Managing client enquiries and concerns

Sharing strategies and recommendations on research methods

Recruiting test subjects

Preparing product samples for testing.

How do you get a research internship?

There’s no one-size-fits-all approach to getting a research internship, though networking can really open doors for your career. The best place to start would be to attend seminars, workshops and symposiums.

Here you’ll meet people with similar interests as you, who’ll be able to point you in the right direction and help you connect with professors in your field.

Here are THREE of the finest companies in the land offering research internships:

Cancer Research UK

Cancer Research UK runs a 12-week cancer research internship three times a year in January, July and September. As well as paying the National Living Wage, this programme offers the chance to develop key business skills whilst playing your part in the fight against cancer.

This fast-moving consumer goods company runs both a 12-month industrial placement programme and a 12-week summer research internship. Top performing students at Unilever can earn themselves a place on their Future Leaders Programme for graduates.

British American Tobacco

Making significant investments in R&D to develop potentially less risky alternatives to cigarettes, British American Tobacco offers 12-month research placements to undergraduates. As an R&D intern, you’ll play a part in discovering, developing and deploying their innovative products.

Biomedical Science Placements and Internships

From providing doctors with vital scientific research to investigating causes of infection, biomedical scientists play a pivotal role in our society. In fact, biomedical science, AKA ‘the science at the heart of healthcare’, underpins much of modern medicine.

DID YOU KNOW?

70% of all medical diagnoses are attributed to the work of biomedical scientists

They make up 5% of the NHS workforce

150 million samples are handled by laboratory services every year.

To kickstart a career in biomedical science, it’s crucial you gain as much experience as you possibly can before you graduate.

As well as a biomedical science placement or internship, to gain your first role you’ll need a strong foundation of scientific knowledge in the form of relevant GCSEs, A-Levels and a degree that’s been accredited by the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS).

Most IBMS-accredited university courses have an integrated placement year. If that’s not the case, you’ll find plenty of short-term internships, including...

The National Health Service (NHS)

The NHS offers biomedical science placements, internships and assistant roles all year round.

"It has set me up with the skills for life! Following the completion of my degree and my placement, I got a full-time job as a fully qualified biomedical scientist at another hospital who were very impressed with my knowledge and skill sets gained through my placement." Biomedical Science Trainee at the NHS

Wellcome Trust

This global research charity runs an eight-week summer internship based in their London office. The programme pays the London Living Wage of £13.15 an hour, and is an opportunity to work with fellow interns and experienced staff alike in the area that most interests you.

Universities

Many run their own biomedical science internships in the summer, giving students the chance to work on research projects being carried out by in-house academic teams. Speak to your head of department or tutor to explore what your university has to offer.

Is biomedical science in demand?

The more new drugs and treatments are developed, the greater the demand for biomedical scientists. Their efforts during the COVID-19 pandemic highlighted the crucial role they play in saving lives and improving our health outcomes.

A team of biomedical scientists at North Tees and Hartlepool NHS Foundation Trust, for example, carried out more than 100,000 PCR tests in just 12 months.

Medical biology is a broad sector, so your career options will be seemingly vast when choosing this profession. Operating theatres, A&E and other hospital departments simply wouldn’t function without biomedical scientists.

So whether your speciality is in disease diagnosis or researching new medicines, this profession is increasingly important and constantly evolving to meet societal needs.

What job can you do with biomedical science?

Biomedical scientists investigate all sorts of medical conditions; from cancer to diabetes, blood disorders and AIDS. The work is practical, analytical and highly varied.

As such, there are plenty of jobs you can do with a degree in Biomedical Science or Healthcare Science, including:

Biotechnologist

Clinical research associate

Clinical scientist, biochemistry

Clinical scientist, hematology

Clinical scientist, immunology

Forensic scientist

Microbiologist

Physician associate

Research scientist (life sciences)

Research scientist (medical)

Scientific laboratory technician

Toxicologist.

Pharmaceutical Internships

Touching millions of lives every day, this industry develops, tests and manufactures lifesaving drugs to combat everything from HIV and AIDS to high blood pressure.

Over 65,000 people in the UK work for pharmaceutical companies; including research scientists, pharmacists, lawyers, engineers and marketeers. Depending on your skill set, you could end up doing anything from running clinical trials to selling pharmaceutical drugs.

A pharmaceutical internship or placement involves working on projects alongside some of the world’s top experts in their field. This is an excellent opportunity to develop essential soft skills and technical knowledge; something that will both complement your studies and boost your CV.

Pharma companies usually ask that you are on track to achieve a 2:1 or above in a relevant degree discipline. For instance, if you want to work in drug research & development, you’ll need a degree in Chemistry, Biology or Pharmacology.

Want to find out more? Head over to our guide to Pharmaceutical Placements for expert advice, employer case studies and a few mind-blowing facts.

What is a science graduate job?

Science graduate jobs are your first step on the permanent career ladder once you finish university and get your Bachelor of Science (BSc) degree. You’ll work for a company where:

You’ll build new skills

Collaborate with like-minded people from your area of discipline

Take up responsibility right from the start.

A science internship or placement can boost your chances of getting a science graduate job and make the transition into the working world smoother. If you haven’t got work experience, you can always bring transferable skills from your degree to the role.

Are science graduate jobs paid?

You’ll be pleased to know that science graduate jobs are paid. The national average salary for a science graduate is £25,000 a year. But this depends on your role, employer and location. 

The more experience you gain though, the more you’ll earn through raises and promotions. 

As a senior biomedical scientist, you could take home £53,000 a year!

How long do science graduate jobs last?

There’s no limit to science graduate jobs. If you love your role and feel genuinely invested in the company, you might stay on and progress to a senior position. If not, you’ll move onto something else that’s more aligned with your values and interests.

What’s the difference between a science graduate job and a science graduate scheme?

Graduate jobs and graduate schemes sound pretty similar. For a start, both have the word ‘graduate’. Both share ‘relations’ (of some sort). However, they do have their differences. 

Permanent VS temporary

Graduate schemes:

Temporary (one to three years)

Can become permanent after completion.

Graduate jobs:

Permanent roles from day one

Length of employment is up to you.

Structured training

Experience different parts of the business

Work in areas including research and development or supply chain management.

Standard training (enough to familiarise you with the role)

Work in one role and team.

Application process

Longer application process

Need for aptitude tests.

Shorter application process

Graduate CV, cover letter and interview.

Applications open between September and November

Interviews and assessment centres take place in January.

Go live as and when a role is needed.

Best Student Employers in Science

If you decide to embark on a career in science, you could be hired by a global corporation, research centre, charity, start-up, engineering firm or even a newspaper! Just like the multiverse, there are infinite possibilities.

To help you cut through the noise, we’ve compiled a list of the best companies to work for as an undergraduate or graduate in the science industry.

Each of these ranked in our Best Student Employers , based on thousands of student-written reviews submitted to RateMyPlacement.co.uk. This means they are the crème de la crème when it comes to company culture, work-life balance, employee perks and more.

GlaxoSmithKline (GSK)

Johnson and Johnson

AstraZeneca

Science Placement Reviews

There are so many opportunities for students looking to get first-hand experience in science and research that it can be tricky to find the right role for you.

Here at RateMyPlacement.co.uk, we’re dedicated to helping young people make informed decisions about their futures. Which is why we host thousands of reviews of science internships and placements. Nearly 3,000 of them in fact.

All of these have been left by students who have carried out some form of work experience in science and research. The reviews are their chance to shout about their time with an employer; be it positively or negatively!

Still figuring out what you want to do? It may be that you’re not sure you want to stick with science, or perhaps you’re torn between working for a global corporation or an SME . Whatever your concern, nothing beats hearing the truth straight from the horse’s mouth.

Browse science work experience reviews

Companies you may be interested in

Estee Lauder Companies

UCL Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health

Great Ormond Street Institute of Child Health

• Work Experience for School Pupils 16-18

Work Experience for School Pupils aged 16-18 years

The GOS ICH Work Experience programme is jointly hosted by the Institute's 5 Teaching & Research Departments . Each Department contributes 2 or 3 sessions to the timetable, providing students with the opportunity to learn about a wide range of research topics and techniques. Our aim is to give students an understanding of the variety of career opportunities in research science. 

Activities range from talks and interactive sessions in the lab with researchers and PhD students to attending Departmental seminars or taking part in a Journal Club.  We organise several hands-on sessions such as looking at cells under a microscope and pipetting solutions.  As we work closely with Great Ormond Street Hospital, sessions may also include visits to clinical labs in the hospital but will not include visits to hospital wards or other clinical settings. 

Students interested in pursuing a medical career and looking for a clinical placement should visit the Great Ormond Street Hospital Work Experience webpage  and the University College London Hospitals Work Experience webpage . 

We offer 12 placements at a time and students are expected to attend the entire week.  Attendance is free and we provide visiting students with lunch each day.  You will, however, need to pay your travel costs to and from the UCL GOS Institute of Child of Health.

The next Work Experience Week is on 28th October - 1st November 2024 

How to apply.

Eligibility:

You must be

• 16 or over, having just completed your GSCEs or studying for your A-Levels
• Able to attend the whole work experience week 

We particularly encourage those from disadvantaged backgrounds to apply. Please note this is not a clinical placement. Preference will be given to those who express an interest in a science placement.

Application Process

• Applications are now closed.
• Applications will be shortlisted and placements offered to students by mid-September.
• Students placed on the waiting list will be notified by the end of September.
• Students must confirm their attendance for the full week. Any free places will be offered to students on the Waiting List.
• We are unable to reply to all applicants as we are usually oversubscribed. If you do not hear from us by the end of September, your application was unsuccessful.
• Programme of events to be circulated to students before the placement starts. 

Feedback from previous students:

 “Loved seeing all the different routes into a science career!"

"I just wanted to say thank you so much for the work experience opportunity I was given. I really enjoyed the week and found visiting all the different labs very interesting and eye-opening. I'm also grateful for all of the people involved who gave up their time to show us some of their work."   “Thank you so much for organising this brilliant and informative week! I enjoyed every minute of it and feel lucky to have gained so much knowledge and experience. I came into this unsure of what degree I wanted to take or what path I wanted to follow, ...  and it has helped to confirm my realisation that I would like to do a Biological Sciences undergraduate course.”  “Thank you so much for organising this work experience, I've found it incredibly enjoyable and informative in helping me decide what career I may like to do in the future. Also, thank you to all the speakers who took the time to give presentations, prepare PowerPoints and answer all our questions. It's been a great experience.” 

Have Questions?

Contact the GOS ICH Work Experience team at  [email protected]

The GOS ICH Christmas Lectures:

YouTube Widget Placeholder https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WdnEmB_tQY4

GOS ICH Undergraduate Summer Studentships

The Child Health Research Studentship Scheme offers up to 7 bursaries for undergraduate students studying science or medicine to carry out a research project over the summer. 

In2scienceUK - Promoting Social Mobility and Diversity in STEM:

YouTube Widget Placeholder https://youtu.be/Bf9ytF3ssRs

Clinical/Medical Placements

For students interested in pursuing a medical career: Great Ormond Street Hospital

University College London Hospitals

Please enable JavaScript in your web browser to get the best experience.

We use cookies to track usage and preferences.

Primary navigation

• PhD students
• Exhibitions
• Translation
• Work experience

Work experience students

Any questions.

Send a message to [email protected].

Introduction

Meet our work experience students.

Sixth form students Tarik and Malina took part in work experience placements discovering DNA sequencing and science communication.

Hear how they got on

Our work experience programme highlights the variety of careers available, from world-leading laboratory research to the supporting business services.

Placements might be in research laboratories in areas such as cell biology, genetics, immunology and bioinformatics. Work experience could be also in non-laboratory locations such as the IT, reception services, public engagement and education teams.

During placements, students are involved in a range of activities supervised by one of our staff.

Available placements Placement details Eligibility checker

Available placements

Placement details, placement length.

Most placements last for one week, although some can be up to four weeks long or occasionally take place for one day a week over the summer holidays. If selected for work experience, you will be expected to attend all days of the placement.

Placement availability

Placements are available throughout the year. Some coincide with specific weeks that local schools have timetabled for work experience. They are also available during school half term breaks, Easter and summer holidays.

Food and travel expenses

We can contribute to students' travel expenses during the placement (up to a maximum of £50 per week) and food (up to £5 per day to be spent in the Crick’s restaurant).

Eligibility checker

Placements are available for state school students who are 14-19 years old.

For health and safety reasons, only students aged 16 or older at the start of the placement can apply for research laboratory-based placements. This restriction may also apply to some non-laboratory placements.

We encourage students to apply for as many placements as they're interested in. However, if a student is offered more than one placement, they may only attend one placement at the Crick per academic year.  

✓ You are eligible for work experience at the Crick.

Available placements are listed above .

Placements at the Crick are either lab-based or not lab-based. Please be aware that you must be 16-19 at the start of the placement to be able to apply for a lab-based placement.

Note that to apply for a lab placement at the Crick you must be 16-19.

✕ Unfortunately you're not eligible for a work experience placement at the Francis Crick Institute.

However, given your interest, you may like to check out the opportunities below:

• The Nuffield Foundation's placements 
• Summer schools at Imperial College
• Social Mobility Foundation's placements

Share the page

• Share on Twitter
• Share on Facebook
• Share on LinkedIn
• Share on Email

The Francis Crick Institute is a unique partnership between

Work experience

What is stfc.

The Science and Technology Facilities Council (STFC) is one of Europe’s largest research organisations, supporting scientists and engineers and running experiments around the UK and worldwide.

Our activities cover a wide range of science, engineering and technology, including materials science, engineering and instrumentation, particle physics, space science, accelerator-based technologies, information technology and computer science.

Inspiring young people and the wider public is one of STFC’s main objectives. This is achieved through a focused programme of public engagement, promoting careers in science, engineering and technology to maintain the quality of the UK programme.

STFC work experience programme

Daresbury Laboratory (DL), Rutherford Appleton Laboratory (RAL) and UK Astronomy Technology Centre (UK ATC) offer work experience placements to Year 10, 11, 12 and 13 students each year, many from local schools and around the country.

As far as possible they are placed depending on the interests they indicate on the application form.

COVID-19 update: the COVID-19 pandemic has affected our work experience provision. It is essential to us that we deliver an experience which is safe and useful for young people.

Find out more:

• work experience placements at DL or RAL
• work experience placements at UK ATC

For enquiries about the STFC work experience programme at:

Daresbury Laboratory

Email: [email protected]

Rutherford Appleton Laboratory

Email: [email protected]

UK Astronomy Technology Centre

Email: [email protected]

Last updated: 14 September 2023

This is the website for UKRI: our seven research councils, Research England and Innovate UK. Let us know if you have feedback or would like to help improve our online products and services .

How To Become A Research Scientist: What To Know

Updated: Feb 29, 2024, 1:40pm

Research is at the center of everything we know and discover, whether it’s food science, engineering, wildlife or the climate. Behind these discoveries, a research scientist conducts experiments, collects data, and shares their findings with the world.

Research and development scientist, or R&D scientist, is a broad career term that encompasses numerous types of scientists, from geologists to historians. Still, every research scientist has the same goal of furthering their field through experimentation and data analysis.

Browse this guide to discover how to become a research scientist and learn about this role, responsibilities and career outlook.

Why You Can Trust Forbes Advisor Education

Forbes Advisor’s education editors are committed to producing unbiased rankings and informative articles covering online colleges, tech bootcamps and career paths. Our ranking methodologies use data from the National Center for Education Statistics , education providers, and reputable educational and professional organizations. An advisory board of educators and other subject matter experts reviews and verifies our content to bring you trustworthy, up-to-date information. Advertisers do not influence our rankings or editorial content.

• 6,290 accredited, nonprofit colleges and universities analyzed nationwide
• 52 reputable tech bootcamp providers evaluated for our rankings
• All content is fact-checked and updated on an annual basis
• Rankings undergo five rounds of fact-checking
• Only 7.12% of all colleges, universities and bootcamp providers we consider are awarded

What Does a Research Scientist Do?

Research scientists design and conduct research projects and experiments to collect and interpret relevant data. Many research scientists work in laboratory settings for universities, private businesses or government agencies.

These professionals are key players in many industries, from healthcare to marine biology . For instance, a chemist may test various materials for future upgrades to a medical device, while a wildlife research scientist might conduct long-term studies on a species’s breeding patterns.

The typical duties of a research scientist, regardless of their industry and position, include:

• Identifying research needs
• Collaborating with other professionals in a project
• Conducting research and experiments
• Writing laboratory reports
• Writing grant proposals
• Analyzing data
• Presenting research to appropriate audiences
• Developing research-related plans or projects

Research scientists may face challenges throughout their careers, like securing research funding or staying updated with policy changes and technologies. Additionally, to become involved in high-level research projects, research scientists usually need a doctoral degree, requiring substantial time and financial commitment.

How To Become a Research Scientist

The path to becoming a research scientist depends on your desired type of work.

For example, if you plan to become a research scientist for a hospital’s oncology department, you’ll likely need a doctoral degree and postdoctoral research experience. However, a product development researcher may only need a bachelor’s or master’s degree.

The following steps outline the general path needed for many research scientist positions.

Earn a Bachelor’s Degree

Research scientists can start by pursuing a bachelor’s degree in a field relevant to the research they want to conduct. For instance, an undergraduate degree in natural resources is helpful to become a wildlife biologist, while a prospective forensic scientist can pursue a degree in forensics.

If you’re undecided about your post-graduate goals, you can pursue a general major like chemistry, biology or physics before choosing a more field-specific master’s or doctoral degree.

Complete a Master’s Degree

Many higher-level research jobs require a master’s degree in a relevant field. Pursuing a master’s degree lets you gain work experience before beginning a doctorate, sets you apart from other doctoral candidates and qualifies you for advanced research positions.

However, you can skip a master’s degree and enter a doctoral program. Many doctoral programs only require a bachelor’s degree for admission, so you could save time and money by choosing that route rather than earning a master’s.

Get a Doctoral Degree

Doctorates require students to hone their research skills while mastering their field of interest, making these degrees the gold standard for research scientists.

A doctorate can take four to six years to complete. Research scientists should opt for the most relevant doctorate for their career path, like clinical research, bioscience or developmental science.

Pursue a Research Fellowship

Some jobs for research scientists require candidates to have experience in their field, making a research fellowship beneficial. In a research fellowship, students execute research projects under the mentorship of an industry expert, often a researcher within the student’s college or university.

Students can sometimes complete a fellowship while pursuing their doctoral degree, but other fellowships are only available to doctoral graduates.

Research Scientist Salary and Job Outlook

Payscale reports the average research scientist earns about $87,800 per year as of February 2024. However, research scientist salaries can vary significantly depending on the field and the scientist’s experience level.

For example, Payscale reports that entry-level research scientists earn about $84,000 annually, but those with 20 or more years of experience average approximately $106,000 as of February 2024.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports salary data for several types of research scientist careers. For example, a geoscientist earns a median wage of about $87,000, while the median wage of a physicist is around $139,000 as of May 2022.

As salaries vary based on research science positions, so does demand. To illustrate, the BLS projects the need for chemists and materials scientists to grow by 6% from 2022 to 2032 but projects medical scientist jobs to increase by 10% in the same timeframe. Both projections demonstrate above-average career growth, however.

Research Scientist Specializations

A research scientist can work in many industries, so it’s crucial to understand your options before beginning your studies. Pinpointing a few areas of interest can help you find the right educational path for your future career.

Research scientists can specialize in life, physical or earth sciences.

Life science researchers like botanists, biologists and geneticists study living things and their environments. Physical research scientists, like chemists and physicists, explore non-living things and their interactions with an environment. Earth science researchers like meteorologists and geologists study Earth and its features.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Becoming a Research Scientist

What degree does a research scientist need.

Research scientist education requirements vary by specialization, but entry-level research positions require at least a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field. Some employers prefer a master’s or doctoral degree, as advanced degrees demonstrate specialized knowledge and research experience.

How do I start a career in scientific research?

Research scientists need at least a bachelor’s degree. Many graduates pursue a master’s or doctoral degree while gaining experience with an entry-level position, internship or fellowship.

Does being a research scientist pay well?

Research scientist careers generally pay well; some specializations pay more than others. For example, the BLS reports a median salary of about $67,000 for zoologists and wildlife biologists as of May 2022, but physicists and astronomers earn just over $139,000 annually.

How many years does it take to become a research scientist?

It can take up to 10 years to become a doctorate-prepared research scientist, plus another one to five years to complete a postdoctoral fellowship. Entry-level research scientist roles may only require a four-year bachelor’s degree or a master’s degree, which takes one to two years.

Do you need a Ph.D. to be a research scientist?

No, not all research scientists need a Ph.D. Entry-level roles like forensic scientist technicians may only need a bachelor’s degree, and sociologists and economists usually need a master’s. Some research scientist roles, like physicists and medical scientists, require a doctoral degree.

• Athletic Training Programs
• Best Master’s In Dietetics Online
• Where To Earn An Online Kinesiology Degree
• Best Economics Master’s Degrees
• Best Online Master’s Programs In Sociology
• Best Online Master’s In Nutrition
• Best Sports Management Master’s Online Degrees
• Best Online Aeronautical Degrees
• Best Online Biology Degrees
• Best Online Philosophy Degrees
• Best Online Theology Degrees
• Best Master’s In Library Science Online Programs
• Best Online Nutrition Science Degrees
• Best Online Economics Degrees
• Best Online Environmental Science Degrees
• Best Doctorate In Theology Online Programs
• Best Online Sports Management Degrees
• 10 Kinesiology Careers To Consider
• How To Become A Sports Manager
• How To Become An Air Marshal
• Careers In Economics
• 9 Nutrition Careers To Consider
• Sociology Careers
• Jobs In Environmental Health
• How To Become A Forensic Scientist
• What Does A Horticulturist Do, And How Can You Become One?
• How To Become A Nutritionist
• What Is A Marine Biologist, And How Can You Become One?
• What Can You Do With A Biology Degree?
• What Can You Do With A Sociology Degree?
• Earning A Biology Degree
• Earning A Bachelor's Degree In Economics
• Bachelor's Degree In Sociology
• Bachelor’s Degrees In Ministry
• Dietitian Vs. Nutritionist
• Kinesiology Degrees
• Earning A Master's In Nutrition
• Earning A Master's In Economics
• Earning A Master's In Sport Psychology
• What Is Sociology?
• Earning A Sport Management Degree
• Earning An Online Master's Degree In Sports Management
• What Is Sport Management?

Best Doctorate In Theology Online Programs Of 2024

Where To Earn An Online Ph.D. In Clinical Research In 2024

How To Become A Certified Veterinary Technician: A Complete Guide

How To Become an Environmental Scientist: A Step-By-Step Guide

How To Become A Soil Scientist: A Step-By-Step Guide

What Does A Botanist Do? A Complete Guide

As a self-proclaimed lifelong learner and former educator, Amy Boyington is passionate about researching and advocating for learners of all ages. For over a decade, Amy has specialized in writing parenting and higher education content that simplifies the process of comparing schools, programs and tuition rates for prospective students and their families. Her work has been featured on several online publications, including Online MBA, Reader’s Digest and BestColleges.

Looking for our teaching and curriculum resources?

Spend your summer holiday enhancing your university application and career prospects on a Nuffield Research Placement

Nuffield research placements are funded by the nuffield foundation and delivered by stem learning. they are engaging, hands-on research projects, where students have the opportunity to make a meaningful contribution towards the work of a host organisation. they are a fantastic opportunity for students to apply skills and knowledge learned at school and work alongside researchers and industry professionals to:.

Develop subject understanding alongside research and quantitative skills to expand career prospects.

Enhance UCAS personal statements and applications to university. An independent evaluation has shown Nuffield Research Placements increase access to university courses in STEM subjects.

Learn more about higher education and different career paths.

Apply for a Gold CREST Award or the Big Bang Competition .

For more information, to check your eligibility and apply visit STEM Learning

Nuffield Research Placement news and case studies

publication | 10/05/2021

Evaluation of Nuffield Future Researchers

news | 19/10/2020

Nuffield Research Placements to be delivered in partnership with STEM Learning

news | 18/09/2019

Providing Nuffield Research Placements at the Environment Agency | Case study

news | 26/08/2019

Environmental science placement at the University of Northampton | Case study

news | 18/08/2019

Pharmacology placement at the University of Bath | Case study

Nuffield research placement alumni and project supervisor aneesa al-ani | case study.

news | 20/11/2018

Dr Bhavik Patel’s experience providing Nuffield Research Placements since 2010 | Case study

news | 18/11/2018

Sensory neuroscience placement at the University of Sheffield | Case study

news | 20/11/2017

Biology placement at Plymouth University | Case study

news | 19/10/2016

Twenty years of Nuffield Research Placements

news | 27/11/2011

Investigating the resistivity of zinc oxide nanorods placement at the University of Bolton | Case study

news | 26/11/2011

Biomedical science placement at the National Institute for Medical Research | Case study

Every pupil who has taken part in the scheme has benefited from increased confidence and general experience. It has usually improved motivation during their final year at school and they have all achieved admission to their preferred University courses. Lynn Friedrichsen, Principal Teacher Faculty, Dumfries Academy

For more information, to check your eligibility and apply for a Nuffield Research Placement, visit STEM Learning.

Once you’ve completed your Nuffield Research Placement, you are eligible to join the Nuffield Alumni Network.

Privacy and cookie policy

Privacy overview.

Internships

We offer several types of internships across our science departments, either based at kew in london or wakehurst in sussex..

Our departments

We have three main departments: Research, Partnerships and Operations.

Projects and programmes

We partner with over 100 countries to identify, document, research and conserve the world's plants and fungi.

• Twitter page Twitter

Work experience

If you are looking for opportunities related to science or maths you can get ideas from friends, family, online business directories or business directories in your local library.

Science Work Placements

School WIL courses allow students to gain genuine work experience in a science or technology-related workplace via a work placement and gain elective credit towards their science degree.

A work placement is a core component of Science WIL courses, alongside professional development assessments. These are designed to prepare for a professional work environment and get the most out of your placement. Science WIL courses are credited towards your science program as a science or free elective. The work placement must be related to your science major. The courses are offered in all academic terms, including summer.

Find out more about the new WIL model:   https://unsw.sharepoint.com/sites/Science-Student-Opportunities Note: The above link is only accessible to current UNSW Science students and staff

Further information

Science work placements will improve your practical skills and confidence and you’ll gain genuine insights into your future career. Find further information on the program below.

Science WIL Placement courses enable undergraduate science students to apply their disciplinary knowledge and transferable skills in a professional context, through a work placement experience at an organisation external to UNSW. Students will have the opportunity to develop key professional skills that align with their career goals and contextualise their field of study in a professional workplace setting.

The main component of the course is a work placement related to the student's field of study. The placement can be paid or unpaid. This supervised workplace experience is supported by professional development and discipline-specific modules that students can select from, in line with their individual career goals.

The courses will count as a science or free elective and is graded on a satisfactory/unsatisfactory basis.

The core work placement may vary in length and intensity depending on the enrolment pattern chosen:

• Option A: minimum 105-hour placement completed in 1 term (worth 6 UOC)
• Option B: minimum 210-hour placement completed in 1 term (worth 12 UOC)
• Option C: minimum 210-hour placement completed over 2 terms (worth 12 UOC)

Example: BABS3199 BABS Work Placement 1 and BABS3299 BABS Work Placement 2

Science WIL Placement Courses currently available:

Students should select the WIL Placement Option relevant to their specialisation or major of study. 

• Aviation WIL Placement Courses: AVIA3199 and AVIA3299
• BABS WIL Placement Courses: BABS3199 and BABS3299
• BEES WIL Placement Courses: BEES3199 and BEES3299
• Chemistry WIL Placement Courses: CHEM3199 and CHEM3299
• Materials Science WIL Placement Courses: MATS3199 and MATS3299
• Medical Science WIL Placement Courses: SOMS3199 and SOMS3299
• Physics WIL Placement Courses: PHYS3199 and PHYS3299
• Psychology WIL Placement Courses: PSYC3199 and PSYC3299
• Science WIL Placement Course: SCIF3199 (for special programs only, and by invitation only)

Students who studying a program or major in the School of Mathematics and Statistics should contact [email protected] for information on how they can complete a WIL Placement. 

Vision Science majors are currently excluded from Faculty of Science Work Placement courses.

Enrolment is subject to approval and completion of required pre-requisites.

Permission to enrol will only be granted if the student:

• Is completing a relevant major or specialisation for the WIL course/s they are applying for.
• Has secured a supervised work placement compatible to their major of study, which has been reviewed and approved by the School.
• Has completed the required pre-requisites (48 units of credit, minimum 65 WAM, passed pre-requisite Preparation for WIL modules).

Please note:

• The course is only available to students who are commencing a new work placement compatible to their major of study. Students seeking to enrol with paid or unpaid work they are already undertaking outside their studies will not be considered.
• Students are required to experience a job hunting/recruitment process and secure a relevant work placement prior to seeking approval for enrolment. Work placements are not provided for students.
• It is the student’s responsibility to check if they have space in their program for this elective.
• This course cannot be taken during an Honours year.

Students must have their work placement approved and enrolment finalised before their work placement starts. 

Students must also meet the standard UNSW enrolment deadlines. 

During a work placement, you will be working as an intern at an external organisation. The work you will do will be related to your specialisation or major of study, and you'll also work on key transferable skills relevant for any workplace such as communication, teamwork and critical thinking. You will contribute productively to a project or series of activities set up by the organisation, and complete assessments alongside your work. 

You build on your discipline-specific and transferrable skills, with guidance from a work placement supervisor and a UNSW academic coordinator. 

The specific nature of your work experience depends on the organisation you are working for, but here are some broad examples. 

• Interns may spend time shadowing members of staff in science-related roles, contributing in an assisting capacity to a range of activities.
• As an intern, you may be asked to be a team member on a project for the duration of the internship. It may be an ongoing project, or one that is completed during the internship.
• Interns may be assigned to an individual project that can be completed within the hours of the placement.
• Specific tasks may be largely office-based, including literature searches, data entry, preparation of figures for presentation or marketing materials.
• There may be also opportunities for hands-on laboratory work and field-based activities.

Your work placement experience is supported by coursework and assessments. This will help you to prepare for the workplace, develop your professional skills and reflect on your professional experience with your peers and course teaching staff. 

Students should consider this advice before confirming a placement and seeking approval for WIL Course enrolment. Please contact [email protected] if you have further questions.   

Local placements

Working arrangements are permitted if they satisfy the following conditions:

• The placement is consistent with Government directives and guidelines relating to travel, social distancing and hygiene measures.
• The placement meets standard Science WIL Course requirements.

If the placement is conducted remotely (the student is required to work from home), additional safety parameters must be followed:

• Students will complete a workplace safety assessment prior to receiving approval to work at home.
• Students will ‘clock in’ and ‘clock out’ to maintain a real time record of their work hours.
• Students will only work between 8am to 6pm on workdays.
• Students will report any incidents of accident or injury within one business day.   

International placements

International work placement experiences are open. International students currently residing in their home country are permitted to undertake a WIL Course work placement with an organisation in their home country. Past examples include the Paraguay Virtual Internships (Environmental Conservation) and Virtual Science Internships: Malaysia . Please contact [email protected] if you have further questions.   

Students must apply for enrolment into a Faculty of Science WIL course.  Applications will be assessed according to the eligibility criteria and suitability of the work placement. 

There are two pathways for applying, based on how you secured your work placement:

• Faculty advertised work placements.
• Student sourced work placements.

Faculty advertised work placements

UNSW Science negotiates placements with employers and advertises pre-approved opportunities to students. These are advertised via email to relevant student cohort and the Current opportunities page. Application processes will mimic a real job application, requiring students to submit a Resume and Cover Letter as a minimum. Specific application requirements is provided for each Faculty advertised opportunity. If students are successful in securing a placement, they will be contacted with further instructions on how to apply for enrolment approval. 

Student sourced work placements

Students approach employers to apply for placements and once secured, applies to UNSW Science for approval and enrolment. This is the most common form of sourcing placements, and students encouraged to be proactive and search for opportunities relevant to your career goals. Work placements must be related to your major of study. Each application will be assessed to ensure that the work placement is relevant. 

Here are the steps normally taken by students sourcing their own placement:

Step 1: Research & networking

Start researching organisations to intern for.

Think about what sort of career path or industry interests you and what kind of organisation could offer this kind of experience. Undertaking the STEM Career Launchpad program will help you with this career planning process. 

Also ask your fellow students, supervisors, family and friends if they know anyone you could contact within their networks. Try to find a connection within the area you are interested in.

Networking is very helpful when searching for work placement opportunities and when looking for work after you finish your studies. Make sure the organisation you approach for a placement will be able to provide an experience that is relevant to your Science degree and desired career direction. This page offers more detailed advice on how to approach organisations for a work placement. 

Step 2: Provide information to your host organisation

Once you have made contact with an organisation or company, you should send them information for host organisations.   This will let them know of what’s required as a host. If your internship host company has any questions you cannot answer, ask them to contact the Science Education Team via [email protected].

Step 3: Complete the recruitment process

Under most circumstances, there will be a recruitment process and you'll need to submit a written application and do a job interview. If you are successful and are offered a role, make sure your employer is happy to proceed with a WIL Placement course experience. It is very important that you discuss the WIL placement program with your employer (including your day-to-day supervisor) and have their permission to proceed with an application for a WIL course.  

Step 4: Approval

You must apply to UNSW Science for approval. We will assess your application according to the eligibility criteria and suitability of the work placement (remember - your placement must be directly related to your major of study). 

 Please contact [email protected] for details on how to apply. 

If you have any questions about the suite of Science WIL Placement courses, please contact [email protected]. 

Contact us  if you are interested in completing a WIL course.

Work placement and covid-19.

If you are considering undertaking a science work placement, please:

• read the  'Work Placements and COVID-19'  update
• contact  the Science Industry team  before finalising any work placement opportunity. 

Global main menu

• Blizard Institute
• Work With Us
• Work Experience Programme

Blizard Institute Work Experience Programme (BIWEP)

The Blizard Institute Work Experience Programme welcomes year 10-12 students who are interested in studying Medicine or a Biomedical related degree at university or are considering a career in a similar field.

Our week-long programme will provide students with the exciting opportunity to gain experience in a laboratory setting and learn more about the medical research here at the Blizard Institute.

What will I be doing?

You will mainly be shadowing our PhD students and postdoctoral researchers in the centres of Cell Biology and Cutaneous Research , Genomics and Child Health , Immunobiology , Neuroscience, Surgery and Trauma , and in the Core Laboratory Facilities as per the general schedule below:

Please note that the schedule could be modified by Centre Managers at any time depending on their staff activity/priorities.

Students will be included in one of the Centre of the Cell STEM Pod shows and/or Neuron Pod workshops depending on availability. Centre of the Cell is our public engagement centre for informal science-learning.

There may be some seminars, lectures or meetings scheduled for the week that students will be encouraged to attend, if allowed.

Who can participate?

• Students in years 10-12 residing in London, United Kingdom.
• We prioritise east London-based schools, primarily students from the London Borough of Tower Hamlets, where we are based.
• A limit of two students will be able to take part in the week-long programme scheduled to run on the fourth week of each month (excluding August and December).

How to apply?

Please note that submitting an application does not automatically guarantee you a place. Students are allocated on a first come, first served basis after considering the content of applications. Priority will be given to students who attend schools based in the London Borough of Tower Hamlets.

If you are a student or school

If you wish to participate in our programme, please email your CV and a completed Blizard Institute Work Experience Form 2024 [PDF 134KB] (including your expression of interest in the personal statement section) to [email protected] , copying in your work experience representative at your school to ensure they are aware of your enquiry. Your application will only be considered if your school representative is included in your email.

If you are an agency, parent or tutor

Please note that we correspond directly with the students or school representatives only.

• Useful Resources
• Testimonials
• Youth Membership Scheme (YMS)
• Access to Queen Mary

Useful Resources

• Blizard Institute Health and Safety Guidance 2023 [PDF 389KB]
• Blizard Institute Work Experience Risk Assessment Form May 2024 [PDF 136KB]
• Blizard Institute Induction Form 2023 [PDF 129KB]
• Blizard Institute Work Experience Form 2024 [PDF 134KB]
• Blizard Institute Work Experience Programme Schedule 2024 [PDF 45KB]

The Blizard Institute is part of the  Whitechapel campus  of Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry.

•   How to find us  
•  Download the  Whitechapel campus map

Contact address

Blizard Institute Barts and The London School of Medicine and Dentistry Queen Mary University of London 4 Newark St London E1 2AT

• "I have gone beyond what I expected to learn. I got to do lots of practical work and learnt so much about the different Centres. I have  developed lost of practical skills such as preparing samples, using pipettes for accurate measuring and lab safety skillls. All staff were extremely nice and made sure I was looked after and enjoying the activities. I have been exposed to careers I didn't even know existed before and to further education options I hadn't considered before. I definetely would recomend this programme because I learnt so much and got to see and do things I would have never imagined. I found this week very useful as it has allowed me to clearly understand what occupation I would like to undertake in the future. I have learnt the importance of team work and communication skills. I have also gained an insight into this field of work and my confidence in working in the field of science has immensely grown." - Woodmansterne School Student
• "I actually witnessed real scientists making discoveries for their project. I am so happy and pleased that I got this opportunity. My patience has developed massively: thanks to this programme I have experienced that it is much more effective to take time to complete work so that the outcome is just as imagined. Staff are incredibly kind and hardworking. I much appreciate how they took time from their busy schedules to help us students, they definetely deserve more recognition. BIWEP is a great way for young people to find interest in science, and to help get an idea of what they want to do in future, even if unsure when they start." - Holy Family Catholic School Student
• "I got a vivid insight into the different fields of research. This allowed me to expand my knowledge and solidify my choice of career. Interacting with staff members was great. They were very friendly and informative. I would recommend this programme to students my age as it helps us understand that there are multiple careers in the science field each with significant levels of importance and prestige." - The Petchey Academy Student
• "I was not only able to obserb in the lab but participated in an impactful way. I am now aware of the multitude of roles neccesary to make all function and find the area of clinical research more appealing. I found it very pleasant as staff was more than happy to help explain any concepts or topics that I found remotely vague or confusing." - Woodhouse College Student  
• "I was so lucky to have the amazing experience of shadowing innovative individuals working at such a prestigious institute. Most notably, the day that I shadowed a doctor at the Royal London hospital was the most exciting and interesting experience of my life and had completely spurred my interest in studying medicine at university. I cannot present my gratitude to you enough for allowing me to have such an amazing experience." - St Thomas More RC School Student
• "This week was an unforgettable experience and I leant so much. It was fascinating to be able to listen to a neurogastroenterologist's journey from training as a doctor to researching the gut-brain axis. Our discussion threw interesting questions on the various treatment possibilities that would arise from this exciting new field." - St Paul’s Girls’ School Student
• "I have a much more realistic insight into what a career in my chosen field is like. After the programme I am more interested in doing an intercalated year that is more research-based.Every member of staff was really welcoming, kind and keen to explain and encouring me to ask any questions. It has been an invaluable experience for me." - The Tiffin Girls’ School Student
• "Thank you for the opportunity presented to me this past week. I would also like to thank you and your colleagues for your warm welcomes and the unforgettable experience you have all given me. I have learnt to be curious and to seize every opportunity that I can." - Bishop Challoner Catholic Federation of Schools Student  
• "I thoroughly enjoyed my time at the Blizard. I am now confident my future is on the science field. The professionals I met gave me invaluable advice on what is needed for me to achieve this. Thanks for making sure that my week with you was coherent and smooth." - Woolwich Polytechnic School Student
• "Staff were exceptional and very engaging. The activities proposed were fascinating. I enjoyed a risk assessment worshop and the Centre of the Cell as innovative and fun." - Woolwich Polytechnic School Student
• "Thank you for the opportunity I had. I am so grateful as I understand the planning this took and staff being very busy. Thank you for the experience I have gained is priceless and I wish that you understand the extent of my gratitude." - Mossbourne Community Academy Student
• "I really enjoyed speaking to an undergraduate about what doing a science degree at university is like before getting to the stage of working in a lab." - The Henrietta Barnet School Student
• "Thank you for allowing me to work alongside the most amazing and helpful scientists ever. I have really benefitted from this experience as I would like to become a researcher in the near future." - Dukes Aldridge Academy Student
• "Thank you for the work experience opportunity at the Blizard Institute. It has been really helpful and I learned a lot from the staff throughout the week" - Bishop Challoner 6th Form Student
• "It was interesting to be able to see the advanced equipment in use as I would not have accees to it otherwise. I was able to see how theories learnt at school in science lessons are put into practice through research." - Newham Collegiate Sixth Form Student
• "I am extremely grateful for your help in organising my placement and to all the staff: Jan, Belen, Dr" - St Thomas More RC Comprehensive School Student
• "Thank you very much for everything, it was truly an amazing and insightful experience. I thoroughly enjoyed doing the whole programme and it has assured me that I definitely want to go into a lab-based career in the future." - Holly Alleyn’s School Student  
• "Thank you so much for the experience, and I would love to say a massive thank you to all the people that I met on the week and was able to share a part of their day with." - Holly Alleyn’s School Student    
• "Thank you very much for helping me with everything regarding the week, It was an amazing experience that I will never forget!" - St Benedicts School (Ealing) Student
• "Playing games in the Centre of the Cell pod was very informative and interactive." - Bishop Challoner Sixth Form (Year 10) Student
• "I extremely loved being able to widen my knowledge of stem cells through animals (mice)" - Havering Sixth Form College Student
• "Thank you for making our time more interesting and fun! We really appreciate it. Wish you all the best with your research!" - St Paul's Way Trust School Student
• "Enjoyed absolutely everything! Thanks for providing such helpful academic and research career advice." - London Design & Engineering UTC Student

Centre of the Cell Work Experience

Centre of the Cell is an informal science education centre located within the Blizard Institute which offers work experience for young people aged between 14 and 19. Our work experience is focused around the skills required for science communication but can also be extremely useful for anyone interested in a healthcare/STEM related career.

These week-long placements will offer plenty of activities to develop transferable skills. For example, you will be given the chance to interview a medical/dental student and/or a scientist, gaining an insight into their career while developing your communication skills. Another of our popular activities is the chance to design an online science game, developing research and presentation skills. You'll also be supporting with the delivery of our school events and learning how a science centre runs behind the scenes.

Placements take place during term time and during the school day (10am-3pm) so permission will be required from the school.

To find out more about our work experience, email [email protected] .

Please note that our work experience does not include any lab work.

Visit the Centre of the Cell website

Queen Mary is the most inclusive university of its kind. Through Access to Queen Mary, we nurture students typically under-represented at Russell Group universities, through an 18-month programme of activities, events and interventions.

The Access to Queen Mary programme aims to help students become more prepared for, and successful in, higher education. Students who successfully complete the programme will not only have benefited from tailored academic and pastoral support but will benefit from a contextual offer to Queen Mary.

Our Work Experience programme

Our in-person work experience.

We want to encourage the best young minds to consider a career in technology so we are running an in-person work experience week for 16-18 year-olds in further education in the Greater London area and you can be a part of it. Please check back in the spring of next year when applications for our 2025 programme will open.

Our work experience covers a range of areas within our business. Learn more about those areas and what’s involved below.

The dates for our 2025 programme are yet to be finalised.

Applications will open in the spring of next year.

As well as insight into working at a market-leading technology company, successful applicants will:

• Participate in interview and presentation skills workshops • Attend knowledge sharing sessions with other work experience peers • Meet our current graduates and interns • Receive a free travel card for London zones 1-6 • £15 per day to spend on your lunch with Just Eat for Business • Laptop provided for the week

If you’re aged between 16 and 18, are currently in further education and are interested in a career in technology, we want to hear from you!

G-Research is a market-leading technology business, located in the heart of London.

We predict whether stocks will go up or down, using lots of data, advanced mathematics and technology. More often than not, our predictions are right – which makes us a successful company.

We employ around a thousand people across three offices near Oxford Street and a US office based in Texas.

• 14 Aug 2024

Hear more from our Head of Forecasting Engineering and learn how to keep your projects on track by embracing constant change and acting quickly.

Hear from our Head of Forecasting Engineering in the second installment of a five-part series, as he discusses the hidden complexities and key practices for success in software projects.

Hear from our Head of Forecasting Engineering on setting up software delivery programs for success. In the first of a five-part series, learn why aligning on outcomes is crucial for achieving success.

• Platform Engineering
• Software Engineering

Oxford University: Science, Engineering and Technology Fair

• Quantitative Engineering

UT Austin: CNS Fall 2024 Technology & Science Career Fair

Ut austin: fall engineering expo, stay up to date with g-research.

Subscribe to stay up to date with the latest news and events

Cornell Chronicle

• Architecture & Design
• Arts & Humanities
• Business, Economics & Entrepreneurship
• Computing & Information Sciences
• Energy, Environment & Sustainability
• Food & Agriculture
• Global Reach
• Health, Nutrition & Medicine
• Law, Government & Public Policy
• Life Sciences & Veterinary Medicine
• Physical Sciences & Engineering
• Social & Behavioral Sciences
• Coronavirus
• News & Events
• Public Engagement
• New York City
• Photos of the Week
• Big Red Sports
• Freedom of Expression
• Student Life
• University Statements
• Around Cornell
• All Stories
• In the News
• Expert Quotes
• Cornellians

During this summer’s Bowers Undergraduate Research Experience, Joyce Yang ’27, a computer science major, worked with Cornell’s EmPRISE Lab to develop a robotic system to transfer a patient from a bed to a wheelchair.

Summer program gives undergraduates a taste of research life

By louis dipietro cornell ann s. bowers college of computing and information science..

Research takes time.

“On top of classes and extracurricular commitments, I often struggle to find enough time for research during the semester,” said James Kim ’25, a computer science and math major.

But this summer, thanks to the  Bowers Undergraduate Research Experience (BURE) , Kim, along with 60 of his undergraduate peers from the Cornell Ann S. Bowers College of Computing and Information Science, can give research the time it requires. In the process, Kim is discovering a career path. Working alongside  Amy Kuceyeski , adjunct associate professor of statistics and data science and professor of mathematics in radiology and of mathematics in neuroscience in the Feil Family Brain and Mind Research Institute at Weill Cornell Medicine, Kim uses machine learning models to analyze brain scans and predict the onset of various neurological disorders. He plans to pursue a doctoral degree in computer science, with a focus on artificial intelligence, neuroscience and health care.

Kabir Samsi ’26, a computer science major and music minor, spent his summer working in a Cornell lab as part of the Bowers Undergraduate Research Experience.

“What I was able to get done over two months during the semester, I got done in maybe a week or two here during the summer,” Kim said. “BURE has been extremely worthwhile. The mentorship and the support have been priceless.”

Hosted by the Cornell Bowers CIS and encompassing Cornell’s Ithaca campus and Cornell Tech in New York City, BURE is a 10-week summer program where Cornell undergraduates are paired with one of nearly 40 faculty mentors and their doctoral students to tackle a specific research project. BURE students work full time for an hourly wage or a research stipend. Open to all Cornell Bowers CIS undergraduates, the program is meant to give undergraduate students a preview of the open, free-form nature of research so that they can decide whether pursuing a doctoral degree is the right choice, said  Adrian Sampson , associate professor of computer science and a BURE mentor. 

“If students are at all considering a career in research, it does not make sense to immediately apply to a Ph.D. program without doing any,” said Sampson, who is mentoring six undergraduate students in his  Computer Architecture and Programming Abstractions (CAPRA) lab this summer. “By the end of the summer, I hope students get a sense of whether this is something they want to do long term. Maybe they like research, or they don’t. There’s no shame in either direction.” 

BURE student Joyce Yang ’27 is working with the  EmPRISE Lab , directed by  Tapomayukh Bhattacharjee , assistant professor of computer science, to develop a robotic system that can safely transfer a care recipient from a bed to a wheelchair. While there has been limited research on this topic, human transferring is one of caregivers’ most challenging daily tasks, making her work all the more meaningful, Yang said. 

“With research, I think it’s fun that you never really know when you’re going to be done with a project, and that it can go as far as you’d like it to go,” said Yang, a computer science major. “There’s a possibility of discovering or inventing something that’s novel, and, especially with robotics, something that could truly have a positive impact in people’s lives.”

Along with research opportunities, BURE offers a series of weekly talks from mentors about life as a researcher, and regular social events throughout the summer. At BURE’s conclusion, participating students showcase their work during a research symposium.

BURE has given Kabir Samsi ’26 the time and experience to decide what he’d like to do after his undergraduate studies, he said.

“The experience has been fantastic,” said Samsi, a computer science major and music minor who is working in Sampson’s CAPRA Lab on a project related to packet scheduling, a model for improving the way computer systems handle flows of data. “I think it's hugely inspired me to want to continue a path of research.”

New this summer is  BURE Next , run by the Cornell Bowers CIS’s Office of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging. It was created to encourage research opportunities for undergraduate students from underrepresented groups everywhere – not just at Cornell; anyone can apply. Four students are participating in BURE Next this summer.

BURE is offered every summer, and Cornell Bowers CIS students can apply via the  college’s website .

Louis DiPietro is a writer for the Cornell Ann S. Bowers College of Computing and Information Science.

Media Contact

Becka bowyer.

Get Cornell news delivered right to your inbox.

You might also like

Gallery Heading

Ohio State nav bar

The Ohio State University

• BuckeyeLink
• Find People
• Search Ohio State

Lake Erie walleye growth is driven by parents’ size, experience

Study finds legacy conditions more influential than recent temperature, food.

Parent size and the conditions in which actively spawning adults lived are the most influential factors affecting growth of Lake Erie walleye, a new study has found.

The findings surprised the scientists, who expected recent temperatures and food availability to have the highest impact on walleye growth. 

Cold winters and more sizable mothers were associated with faster growth in 3- to 5-year-old walleye offspring, the analysis showed, suggesting that warmer winters that come with climate change might lead to future generations of smaller fish. 

The findings also may mean ecological research in other species should take parental experiences into account to better understand animals’ present health, researchers say. 

“We really did think that the recent environment would have the strongest effects,” said lead author Zoe Almeida , who completed the work as a PhD student in evolution, ecology and organismal biology at The Ohio State University. “When you’re thinking about factors that affect growth, you think you have to account for temperature and prey. And in reality, those signals were so small themselves that they weren’t the strongest in any way. It was very surprising.” 

The study was published Aug. 13 in the Journal of Animal Ecology . 

The pace of growth is used in research as an indicator of overall health in many species – and is influenced not only by experiences, but also genetics. By any measure, the current status of the Lake Erie walleye population is considered quite robust, according to the 2024 status report from the Ohio Division of Wildlife (ODNR-DOW). 

“The Lake Erie walleye population is doing fantastic right now,” said Almeida, now a senior research associate in natural resources and the environment at Cornell University . “But is there something going on behind the scenes we’re not noticing, or that we won’t notice until much later because we don’t realize its effects?” 

In pursuit of an answer, Almeida and colleagues made use of the wealth of walleye data generated by ODNR-DOW through its longtime monitoring of the Lake Erie population. 

The team analyzed five factors that can affect growth: recent environmental conditions, such as food supply and temperature; previous year traits, including growth; population density that could indicate the extent of competition early in life; early-life body size; and parental conditions and environmental experiences. 

The analysis was done on annual cohorts using data of walleye populations that were 3 to 5 years old in each year between 1982 and 2015, an age when they’re reaching maturity, but still growing rapidly. ODNR-DOW data also indicated the proportion of walleye that were spawning each year. Researchers explored relationships between these factors and cohort growth using statistical modeling. 

“We parsed all that out and what was affecting the growth on a cohort level was really what happened to the parents,” Almeida said. “The size composition and winters they experienced determined whether or not the cohort was faster growing or slower growing than typical in the year before in individuals 3 to 5 years old.” 

Meanwhile, no big impact on growth could be traced to the expected factors: recent prey, temperature and fishing pressure (anglers are the walleye’s main predator). This is not to say they had no effect – their effects were just not the most influential, she said. 

The findings have implications for wildlife management and ecology research. 

“It helps us set our expectations and understand the mechanisms behind things going on out there. When managers are thinking about what this population is going to look like in three to five years, they ideally will acknowledge the fact that what happened in the past is affecting them and keep that in mind when they’re making their management decisions,” Almeida said.     

“And I do think that it has implications for other animals because what happens in early life or what happened to parents might be more influential than what is happening currently in their environment. And we’re not accounting for that.” 

This work was supported by the National Science Foundation, a Distinguished University Fellowship from Ohio State, the American Fisheries Society, the International Association of Great Lakes Research, and the Federal Aid in Sport Fish Restoration Program administered jointly by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and ODNR Division of Wildlife. 

Co-authors were Stuart Ludsin and Elizabeth Marschall of Ohio State, and Matthew Faust of ODNR.

More Ohio State News

President carter joins move-in day effort to welcome students back to campus.

The Ohio State University’s carefully orchestrated effort to move students back to campus is underway this week. Thousands of families filled cars, trucks and vans with all the essentials for the start of a new academic year.

Moll promoted to associate vice president of public safety at Ohio State

Monica Moll has been promoted to associate vice president of The Ohio State University’s Department of Public Safety. In addition to the promotion, Moll will serve as interim chief of police following Kimberly Spears-McNatt’s departure on Aug. 26.

How some states help residents avoid costly debt during hard times

A new national study provides the best evidence to date that generous unemployment insurance benefits during the COVID-19 pandemic helped reduce reliance on high-cost credit use.

Contact: Admissions | Webmaster | Page maintained by University Communications

Request an alternate format of this page | Web Services Status | Nondiscrimination notice