Navigating Internships in the World of Chemistry

University courses Physical Sciences
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Finding internships for chemistry students in the UK can be a rewarding experience to gain practical skills and industry exposure. Here are some strategies and resources to help you find suitable opportunities:

  1. University Career Services:
  • Check with your university’s career services department. They often have resources and job boards specific to your field of study.
  1. Online Job Portals:
  • Explore online job portals and internship platforms. Websites like Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn regularly post internship opportunities. Filter your search by location and industry to find chemistry-related internships.
  1. Company Websites:
  • Visit the career pages of companies in the chemical, pharmaceutical, and biotechnology industries. Many organizations post internship opportunities directly on their websites.
  1. Professional Organizations:
  • Check with professional organizations related to chemistry, such as the Royal Society of Chemistry (RSC). These organizations often provide resources, job boards, and networking events that can help you find internships.
  1. Research Institutions:
  • Look into opportunities at research institutions and laboratories. Universities and private research facilities often have internships for students interested in gaining hands-on experience in a research setting.
  1. Networking:
  • Attend industry conferences, seminars, and networking events. Building connections with professionals in the field can lead to internship opportunities. Joining LinkedIn groups related to chemistry can also help you discover hidden opportunities.
  1. Government Agencies:
  • Explore internships with government agencies involved in scientific research, such as the UK’s Health and Safety Executive (HSE) or the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy (BEIS).
  1. Chemical and Pharmaceutical Companies:
  • Reach out to chemical and pharmaceutical companies directly. Many of these companies offer internship programs for students pursuing degrees in chemistry.
  1. Research Councils:
  • Check for internship programs offered by research councils, such as the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and the Biotechnology and Biological Sciences Research Council (BBSRC).
  1. Specialized Job Boards:
  • Explore specialized job boards focused on science and research, such as Nature Jobs or New Scientist Jobs.

Remember to tailor your resume and cover letter for each application, highlighting your academic achievements, relevant coursework, and any laboratory or research experience you may have. Additionally, consider reaching out to your professors or academic advisors for guidance and potential recommendations.

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Some great advice here, @larissamoras!

The RSC (Royal Society of Chemistry) advertises jobs and internships on their minisite at Chemistry World - here’s the link:

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