Postgraduate student Megan Trusler at a microscope scanning pollen in X-ray lab

Explore the world of work with hands-on experience

There’s a wide range of possible year in industry placements on offer for microbiology and biotechnology students, find out more below.

A year in industry is a fantastic way to explore possible careers and see if they’re right for you. They look great on your CV and offer endless opportunities to build skills and develop a network of contacts. Your employer may even offer you a job for after you graduate. 

There’s a wide range of possible year in industry placements on offer for microbiology and biotechnology students. We have excellent links with companies and organisations. Our students have been on placement with organisations such as: 

  • Absenza 
  • Azotic Technologies 
  • GSK  
  • Long Clawson Dairy  
  • Mondelez 
  • NV Biotech 
  • Pfizer 
  • RedX Pharma 

Our dedicated placement team is available to support you in finding the right opportunity.

While on my placement, I’ve gained a lot of skills – like working with Excel and statistical programmes. I’ve gained a lot of experience in a field I want to go into, which is animal work. Working here has built my confidence up a lot.

Isaac

on placement at Newquay Zoo

Further options 

If a year-long placement isn’t for you, you could spend a summer working with one of our renowned scientists on campus. Specific research institutes offer summer internships.

Alternatively, consider employer-led challenges or online work experience organised by the Careers and Employability Service.  

There are also opportunities to work with the university. You could share your love of your course as a student ambassador, or flex your creative skills as a content creator.