Charlotte aspires to work in a lab-based research role after her MSc

Charlotte says her summer placement has been a learning experience that will make her a more well-rounded scientist when she starts looking for a role as a fermentation scientist after her MSc studies.

Why did you undertake this MSc?

After I completed my undergraduate degree, I began working for a biotechnology company. I really enjoyed the work I was doing and was keen to learn more about the biotechnology field. Then I came across this MSc and realised that this course would allow me to learn more about the field through the interesting taught classes whilst gaining practical hands-on experience through the summer placement opportunity.

What are your ambitions for the future?

I aspire to continue working within industry in a laboratory-based research role. I have interests in both upstream and downstream processing particularly the former so may actively seek roles to train as a fermentation scientist. I also have interests in renewable technologies and blue biotechnology so would be seeking to find roles which explore these areas further in the future.

What has been your favourite part of the MSc?

I found the food microbiology class interesting. I am also thoroughly enjoying my summer placement as I was lucky to secure a placement in which my assigned project really interests me and am learning so much information and techniques which I know will make me a more well-rounded scientist.

Where/ what do you think the next innovation in IB will be?

I think the next innovation in IB will involve renewable energy technologies or marine biotechnologies as these areas are attracting increasing amounts of attention due to the crucial need for fossil fuel alternatives and the discovery of the variety of marine organisms and the benefits of their products.

What do you enjoy doing away from your studies?

I would consider myself to be quite the ‘foodie’ therefore out-with my studies I enjoy spending time socialising with my friends and family, often trying out different cuisines and exploring new dishes and drinks.