During my Clinical Trial Co-Ordinator/Research Associate placement at MSD, I was responsible, as a co-ordinator for 4 renal cancer studies. This involved supporting the whole clinical team, from colleagues to the doctors at hospitals, by answering queries, providing important documentation and keeping the trial team up-to-date with any important trial data. I also worked across multiple studies as a Research Associate.
This involved going to hospitals around the country and ensuring that patients were receiving the correct treatment and all data had been captured correctly, safety measures were in place and safety data was captured, reviewing patient notes and training medical professionals.
I was able to develop a complete knowledge of how clinical trials are run within the pharmaceutical industry, as well as gaining a deeper insight into the industry as a whole. I was trained on medical terminology surrounding clinical trials, and I am now proficient in systems such as Veeva, CPAC and Spectrum. I also managed to develop my use of Microsoft packages and presentation development. In terms of soft skills, the placement was invaluable for the improvement of my networking skills, time management, project management and presentation skills.
What have your placement highlights been so far on placement? and what are you future plans after final year?
One of my major highlights from the placement was being able to manage various projects; I had the opportunity to develop an app which showed all the hospitals used by MSD in the UK and Ireland and various information about the sites. I was also a member of MSD’s Diversity and Inclusion group, and I had the great pleasure to run site-wide internal activities and was involved in the organisation of MSD’s first time walking in the London Pride Parade.
At the moment I am planning to go on to the integrated MSc Course in Microbiology. From there, I hope to either go back into clinical research with the aim of becoming a Research Associate, or go on to do a PhD and work in research/as a university lecturer.
Any advice for current or prospective students hoping to study in the School of Biological Sciences? and thinking of undertaking placement?
I would strongly suggest anyone to come to QUB to study at the School of Biological Sciences. The wide variety of course content, high quality of student support, and opportunities for various activities and progression makes for an excellent student experience.
I would really advise anyone in university to undertake a placement. Not only does a placement help with future career prospects and stands out on a CV, it helps to build an understanding of what future career paths may or may not be for you. Personally, I think it was invaluable for me to improve on many soft skills such as presentation skills, confidence in and out of the workplace, and networking skills.
Sam Nolan
BSc Microbiology
