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• Kim

Meet our people

University: University of Bath
Degree type: MChem Chemistry

Tell me about the Organic Chemistry Development Programme.
When I graduated, I was unsure exactly which area of chemistry I wanted to work in.  This programme lets me work in three completely different chemistry jobs and gain insight into other departments that I don’t actually work in, so in that respect, it suits my needs perfectly. These varying roles will allow me to determine where my strengths and aspirations lie, and enable me to move confidently into a more long-term job and specific area of chemistry. The programme will provide me with an initial range of experience within the company as opposed to depth in just one particular area.

What can I look forward to?
I’d say you can look forward to some very interesting placements. I’m currently on my first, working as a process chemist at GSK Dartford. Dartford is a primary manufacturing site, and it’s here that active pharmaceutical ingredients are made before they’re sent off to secondary manufacturing for formulation. My work is really varied. Lab work can involve optimising and looking for improvements in the existing plant process, as well as testing raw materials by running through the process in the lab. We’re also used as plant support when introducing a new compound for manufacture, or if something unexpected happens.

What kind of support will I receive?
There’s a great support network and friendship between other graduates who are working on the various sites, and we see each other frequently on training courses and outside of work. I also have regular meetings with both my managers on site and the technical development manager. The majority of my personal development comes from on-the-job experience though. It’s all supported by GSK-run courses on topics including presentation skills, empathy, negotiation, teamwork and leadership.

What does it lead on to?
I intend to spend the three years of my programme maximising my chemistry knowledge and business understanding of the pharmaceutical industry. After the programme has finished, I’m planning on gaining deeper knowledge in an area I’ve enjoyed working within. As far as long term plans go, I hope to be a team leader within the next five years. It’s a realistic goal - GSK have some great structures in place to support career progression.

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