Today, we’re sitting down with my friend Lizzie, a 23-year-old who graduated with a degree in Biomedical Science in 2023. Lizzie now works as a laboratory technician at a pharmaceutical company in London. She shares insights about her role, her journey, and advice for current students looking to follow a similar path.
Q: Can you describe your typical day as a laboratory technician in a pharmaceutical company?
Lizzie: My typical day starts with setting up the lab for any experiments planned for that day. This includes calibrating equipment, preparing reagents, and reviewing protocols. A large part of my work involves conducting quality control tests on pharmaceutical products to ensure they meet regulatory standards. I also document everything, from the procedures I follow to the results I obtain, as accuracy and traceability are crucial in this industry. The rest of my day often involves collaborating with other departments, such as R&D or production, to address any issues or run additional tests.
Q: What skills do you think were most important for landing your job, and how did you develop them?
Lizzie: Attention to detail and good organisational skills were key. These are things I honed during my time in university through lab work and coursework. I also developed strong technical skills, like operating lab equipment and analysing data, during my degree. Beyond the technical side, communication skills were important too. I worked on this by presenting research projects during university and participating in group work. Employers also valued my ability to stay calm under pressure, which I’d say came from juggling deadlines during busy semesters.
Q: Is there anything you wish you had known about the job application process before you started applying?
Lizzie: I wish I had known how important tailoring your CV and cover letter is for each application. Early on, I sent out generic applications, and I barely got any responses. Once I started customising my applications to highlight the specific skills and experiences that matched the job description, I saw much better results. Also, networking plays a much bigger role than I initially thought.
Q: What was the biggest challenge you faced transitioning from university to the workplace?
Lizzie: Adjusting to the pace and expectations of a professional lab environment was a challenge. At university, you have time to plan and execute experiments, and mistakes are seen as part of the learning process. In the workplace, timelines are tighter, and there’s less room for error because your work impacts real products and patients. It was a bit intimidating at first, but having supportive colleagues made the transition smoother.
Q: Were there any specific projects or internships during university that helped you stand out when applying?
Lizzie: Definitely. During my final year, I worked on a research project focused on antibiotic resistance. I gained hands-on experience with techniques like PCR and gel electrophoresis, which are highly relevant in my current role. I also did a summer internship at a local biotech company where I assisted with quality control testing. These experiences not only boosted my CV but also gave me talking points during interviews.
Q: Looking back, is there anything you would have done differently in your final year of university to better prepare for your career?
Lizzie: I would have started applying for jobs earlier. I underestimated how long the process would take, especially for entry-level roles. I also wish I had attended more career fairs and networking events to connect with industry professionals. Lastly, I think I could have made better use of my university’s career services, like mock interviews and CV reviews.
Q: What advice would you give to someone still in university about networking or building connections in the industry?
Lizzie: Start early and be proactive. Attend industry events, join relevant societies, and don’t be afraid to reach out to professionals on LinkedIn. Even a short conversation can lead to valuable insights or opportunities. If your university has an alumni network, use it—graduates who are already working in the industry can be a great resource.
Q: How important is laboratory experience compared to academic performance when applying for roles like yours?
Lizzie: Both are important, but I’d say lab experience carries more weight for technical roles like mine. Employers want to know you can handle the practical side of things, like running experiments and troubleshooting issues. That said, academic performance isn’t irrelevant—it shows you’re disciplined and can grasp complex concepts. But if you can back up decent grades with solid lab experience, you’re in a strong position.
Q: Are there any misconceptions about working as a lab technician that you’d like to clear up for current students?
Lizzie: One misconception is that the work is repetitive or boring. While there are routine tasks, there’s also a lot of problem-solving and collaboration involved. Another misconception is that lab technicians don’t have opportunities to grow. In reality, there are clear pathways for progression—for example, moving into roles like lab manager, quality assurance specialist, or even R&D scientist.
Q: What are your long-term career goals, and how has this job helped you work toward them?
Lizzie: Long-term, I’d like to move into a role in pharmaceutical R&D, focusing on developing new therapies. My current job is helping me build a strong foundation of technical skills and industry knowledge, as well as giving me insights into how the pharmaceutical pipeline works. It’s a great stepping stone toward my ultimate goal.
I hope this interview gives you some insight about what is like to work as a lab tech! If you have any questions for Lizz, please leave them below!