SENUSHI JAYASINGHE

Finding my feet and the career for me

Hi, I’m Senushi Jayasinghe, a BSc Pharmaceutical Science student at the University of South Wales. When I was originally offered my sandwich year with the Quality Control department at Tocris Bio-Techne, I felt quite nervous that I would struggle to put my skills into practice.

However, after starting my placement, I gained a clear understanding of how quality control functions within the pharmaceutical industry.

I went on to receive shout-outs from my manager and recognition from my colleagues as we had a period where the department was exceptionally busy, and I successfully completed tasks independently while simultaneously helping other analysts.

While I initially wanted to work in a chemistry laboratory, my placement made me realise that I would prefer a role in either quality control or quality assurance.

Learning by doing: Getting hands-on in quality control

It significantly strengthened my chemistry knowledge as I gained extensive hands-on experience in analytical chemistry.

I checked the pH meter daily to make sure it gave accurate readings, and I tested the pipettes every month to make sure they measured liquids correctly. I maintained solvent, chemical and consumable stocks in the laboratory, and ensured I kept my workspace tidy and hazard-free. I also carried out communal laboratory activities – from washing glassware to disposing of lab waste correctly and properly storing solvent containers.

I completed basic tests, based on solubility and appearance, to identify compounds and examine their chemical structures. I took samples or raw materials and finished products, and I checked what different chemicals were made of using equipment like a nuclear magnetic resonance and a mass spectrometry instrument.

I received and processed sample submissions from the lab while also sending samples to external laboratories for analysis before processing the results. I liked having the opportunity to collaborate with other pharmaceutical companies.

I am especially grateful to my course leader and lecturers for their support and guidance

I chose to do my sandwich year placement during my second year after my lecturers encouraged all students to undertake either a sandwich year or a summer placement. They emphasised that it would sharpen our industry-related knowledge and give us a deeper understanding of how the pharmaceutical industry operates.

My lecturers supported me in securing my placement – I had never attended an interview before and they helped me to prepare, including valuable advice on what to expect and how to present myself effectively.

My course leader met with me every two months during the placement to make sure I was okay, to check my progress and to address any concerns I had.

I would strongly recommend a sandwich year to others considering it 

A sandwich year provides longer exposure to the industry which allows you to learn in-depth and develop professionally.

I know my placement will give me a competitive advantage over other graduates as companies prefer candidates with industry experience.

I would advise other students on this course to start applying for placement jobs early, preferably at the beginning of your second year. Securing a placement as soon as possible will increase your chances of gaining valuable industry experience.