Advice from Pharmaron UK Scientist and Alumni, Marta Nawrocka
USW Alumni, Marta Nawrocka, from Poland, studied BSc Pharmaceutical Science at the University of South Wales and is currently employed as a Scientist at Pharmaron UK. Here, she tells us about her experience studying at USW, her work as part of the Material Science group at Pharmaon UK, and offers advice to anyone wishing to study Pharmaceutical Science at University.
“I am an international student and really liked the idea of studying in Wales. USW offered the BSc Pharmaceutical Science degree and the versatility of career options really appealed to me.
My favourite thing about the course was huge amount of hands-on experience and the trust the University has in its students with the equipment as well as performing complex reactions. In the third year, you are allowed to plan your own work and perform it under minimal supervision. This prepares a student for the industry and independent laboratory work after graduation.”
I’m able to challenge myself and constantly improve as I learn new things every day.
“I currently work as a Scientist in the Material Science group within the Analytical Chemistry department at Pharmaron UK and my role involves providing Material Science support such as crystallisation, salt screening, drug stability and pre-formulation studies as a part of Contract Research Organisation.
My favourite thing about my job is that I have the ability to challenge myself and constantly improve as I learn new things every day. I believe this is incredibly important especially in the early stage of one’s career to be able to not only work but also constantly learn and evolve as a person and as a Scientist.”
I had such a vast experience with a range of instruments at USW.
“The course at USW allowed me to succeed in my career so far as I had such a vast experience with a range of instruments commonly used in the Analytical Chemistry laboratory. While obtaining a University degree was certainly a necessity to apply to such a position, what made me secure this role was my industrial experience during my year in the industry and my expertise in Material Science.
If you are considering studying the BSc Pharmaceutical Sciences degree at USW, I would say it is a great start towards a scientific career and the contents of the course are definitely worth it. The Pharmaceutical aspect of the course compared to pure Chemistry allows you to distinguish yourself while applying to Pharmaceutical Companies.”
Building your network of professional contacts can really get you a long way.
“To anybody wanting to become a Scientist, my advice would be to go beyond what University offers and distinguish yourself by securing a year-long Industrial Placement. A year in the industry allows you to get some level of expertise in your chosen field which will stand out when applying for jobs compared to graduates without experience.
Do stay in touch with other USW graduates via LinkedIn who have already secured such jobs or similar. Building your network of professional contacts can really get you a long way. Very often people from the industry have information about job openings and placement opportunities which otherwise could be missed.”
