PIPS Opportunity: UKHSA – Acute Respiratory Influenza Forecasting to prepare Hospitals for Winter

UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is an executive agency, sponsored by the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC). At UKHSA, our mission is to protect people’s health by preventing and responding to threats—whether that’s a new pandemic, everyday infections like influenza, or environmental dangers like radiation or extreme weather. We save lives, protect livelihoods, and work with partners across the NHS, care systems, and globally to keep communities safe.

We’re a hub of scientific and operational expertise, tackling health challenges at every level—local, national, and international.

The Chief Data Officer (CDO) group is the analytical powerhouse of UKHSA and plays a key role in making sure data is used safely, legally, and ethically. We support every step of the data journey—from collecting and managing information to analytics and delivering insights that drive real-world action. If you’re passionate about using data to make a difference and want to help solve big health challenges, there’s a place for you here in the CDO group.

Role Summary

Infections caused by viruses, bacteria and fungi cause substantial burden on hospitals, particularly over winter. Human behaviour, meteorological conditions and population immunity can change patterns of infection each winter, making planning challenging for hospital administrators.

The numbers of patients attending emergency department (ED) with acute respiratory infections (ARI), a form of syndromic surveillance, is a key metric monitored by UKHSA and of key interest to the NHS. UKHSA currently delivers disease specific forecasts of hospital admissions, delivered to hospitals each week. By understanding the ED ARI data better and developing models to forecast expected burden NHS colleagues will be able to prepare and respond over the winter period more effectively.

Outline of duties

You will be required to engage with teams across UKHSA, including the infectious disease modelling team, syndromic surveillance teams and responsible teams within the NHS.

During this placement we would expect you to:

  • Work closely with data owners to understand the source, and how it can be used.
  • Investigate past ED ARI data to understand patterns, biases and trends to ascertain how forecastable the data is.
  • Explore a range of statistical modelling approaches to forecast ARI ED attendances, comparing their performance.

This project will provide experience working in a modelling and data science team in a public health context. The work will be focused on the use of data, analysis and statistics used in operational contexts.

Expected output/deliverables

  • Create a report outlining the limitations and opportunities of the ED ARI data source for real-time modelling following a thorough investigation.
  • Develop model options for forecasting ED ARI attendances into the future.
  • Support the delivery and development of existing disease specific models.
  • Work with subject matter experts across UKHSA and the NHS to align the forecasting problem to operational needs.

Skills and experience

Essential skills

  • Data analysis
  • R coding experience
  • Statistics
  • Communication skills
  • Experience working together in a team.

Desirable 

  • Experience of working with health data.
  • Statistical or mechanistic modelling experience.
  • Bayesian statistics. Forecasting or time series analysis.
  • Version control (such as Git).

The placement will be remote with the occasional office/event attendance, but this is at the successful candidate’s discretion. Any costs associated with travel or accommodation will be discussed with the successful candidate before the placement commences. Unfortunately, we cannot cover travel and subsistence costs, this will need to be covered by the student’s DTP funding bursary.

How to apply

Closing date for applications: Friday 31st July by 5pm

Application format: CV and 1000-word (max) cover letter to evidence how you fit the project requirements, skills and what you can bring to this role.

How to submit an application:

Send your CV and cover letter (max 1000 words) to Kat Paes, CDO Partnerships Manager, UKHSA, CDOPartnerships@ukhsa.gov.uk with the subject line “WRDTP – ARI forecasts project”. Please note this opportunity is being advertised at multiple universities.

Recruitment process

The Host Organisation is responsible for processing the applications received for this opportunity and applications will be processed as follows:

Applications will be sifted against the essential skills listed in the advert. Desirable criteria may be used in the event of many applications / large number of successful candidates. If you are successful at this stage, you will progress to interview and assessment.

Successful applicants will be invited for a virtual interview on MS Teams with the UKHSA Infectious Disease Modelling team and CDO Partnerships team. On the day of the interview, you will be sent a short technical assessment to complete ahead of the interview. During the interview we will assess you against a technical assessment and the skills mentioned in the essential criteria. The successful candidate will be informed 1-2 weeks after the interview, depending on how many interviews there are.

The successful candidate will then be asked to sign an agreement after security checks (United Kingdom Security Vetting: Applicant – GOV.UK) have been completed. Please allow 4-6 weeks for the whole onboarding process, at the higher end if you are an international PGR holding a student visa. Civil Service eligibility criteria will apply. How to Apply | Civil Service Careers (civil-service-careers.gov.uk). 

Contact details

Any queries about this opportunity should be addressed to the Host Organisation.

Kat Paes, CDO Partnerships Manager, UKHSACDOPartnerships@ukhsa.gov.uk or +44 20 7123 1675.

Policy Internship Opportunities at the Chief Data Officer Group, UKHSA

18 Placements available in the Chief Data Officer Group, UKHSA.

UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) is an executive agency, sponsored by the Department of Health and Social Care (DHSC). At UKHSA, our mission is to protect people’s health by preventing and responding to threats—whether that’s a new pandemic, everyday infections like influenza, or environmental dangers like radiation or extreme weather. We save lives, protect livelihoods, and work with partners across the NHS, care systems, and globally to keep communities safe.

We’re a hub of scientific and operational expertise, tackling health challenges at every level—local, national, and international. The Chief Data Officer (CDO) group is the analytical powerhouse of UKHSA and plays a key role in making sure data is used safely, legally, and ethically. We support every step of the data journey—from collecting and managing information to analytics and delivering insights that drive real-world action.

If you’re passionate about using data to make a difference and want to help solve big health challenges, there’s a place for you here in the CDO group

Role Summary

As part of the CDO family, you will be matched with one of our teams to gain hands-on experience with data analytics in public health, observing how UKHSA delivers evidence-based insights to the government. You’ll learn how our teams collaborate to protect public health, gaining insights into daily operations such as policy drafting, strategy, data analysis, and project management.

We work hard to make all our interns feel welcome and positive about their experience. When you join us, we provide training, supervision, support and mentoring to enable you to make the most out of the opportunity. We normally have multiple interns with us at any one time, so you will have access to a network of like-minded peers for support that meet and chat frequently.

Join us and be part of a dynamic and diverse range of impactful projects shaping public health responses and strategy. As part of our Infectious Disease Modelling team, you could be leading epidemiological modelling and analysis on COVID-19, Mpox, climate-related vector-borne diseases, and Chemical, Biological, Radioactive and Nuclear threats. Opportunities also exist within our Health Analytics and Automation Team, where you might assess the use of AI tools like MS Co-pilot or lead strategic work on operationalising open-source coding across government. We have an exciting opportunity to work in the buzz of the CDO Private Office.

Here you will learn so much, from strategy to stakeholder engagement with senior civil service members such as our Director General, Professor Steven Riley, working not just across the agency but across government. We continually develop and strengthen our infectious disease surveillance tools across an array of public health areas so it’s a great opportunity to join us and contribute towards meaningful public health policy.

Wastewater surveillance is fast becoming valuable for tracking public health threats like COVID-19 and poliovirus. You could join this pioneering team interpreting complex data and helping shape clear policy guidance. Our Emerging Hazards team offers roles in forecasting global disease scenarios and evaluating overseas health system capabilities, while the AI Delivery Team is driving pan-agency transformation in AI adoption—perfect for those skilled in project management, policy development, and stakeholder engagement.

Join our Geospatial team with some hands-on research into health disparities and the effects of extreme weather on vulnerable populations. Join the Epidemiological Insight Team, providing critical epidemiological evidence, supporting analytical tools, and enhancing the quality and impact of UKHSA publications. Finally, collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to conduct user research and inform the design of data products like the UKHSA dashboard.

What are they looking for?

  • Background or interest in one or more of the following areas is advantageous: Public health policy, Genomics, Epidemiology, Infectious diseases, Health inequalities, Geospatial data, Statistics or Social and Behavioural Sciences.
  • Enthusiastic, self-motivated individuals passionate about making a difference and driving change for
    public good.
  • Experience with data analysis, including skills for data manipulation, data merging and analysing data to
    identify trends.
  • Good communication skills
  • Quantitative and qualitative or mixed methods skills in data analysis, vaccines or epidemiology. This may include coding skills, e.g., R, Python, or SQL

Applying

Applications will be shortlisted, and interviews will be conducted via MS Teams to select the most appropriate candidates and match to a team.

Successful candidates will then be asked to sign an agreement after security checks have been completed.

Please allow 4-6 weeks for the whole onboarding process, at the higher end if you are an international student.

Location and Working Arrangements

The position will be remote based although your team will arrange occasional days to meet up, attend related events or meetings. Our head office is based in Canary Wharf, London, so if you live nearby and wish to work in the office frequently, we can arrange a government pass. We also have other offices in Bristol, Birmingham and Liverpool which you can attend. UKHSA supports flexible working, if you complete your set weekly hours, you can work with your line manager to find a suitable working pattern for you.

Contacts

Kat Paes, CDO Partnerships Manager, UKHSA
Email: kat.paes@ukhsa.gov.uk or CDOPartnerships@ukhsa.gov.uk
Tel: +44 20 7123 1675

Eradigm PhD Internship Program PIPS Opportunity

Eradigm is a strategic consultancy for the life sciences, working globally in Competitive Intelligence, Market Access, Commercial and Medical Strategy. We partner with teams across all therapeutic areas—supporting clients from top 10 pharma companies to emerging biotechs—to inform, clarify, and advise on key challenges in the space. We have particular expertise in future technologies, including cell and gene therapy, innovative market access and digital transformation.

Role Summary

Eradigm is seeking a number of ambitious PhD students to join our 3-month PhD Internship Program (PIP). In this unique role, you will be provided with the opportunity to apply and combine your life science expertise with a commercial mindset to contribute to multiple projects, working with clients from leading pharmaceutical companies, to medtechs or biotechs.

As a PhD intern, you will play a pivotal role in our team, analyzing scientific and industry data that are both quantitative and qualitative and formulating strategic insights. Eradigm’s PIP provides high quality consulting skills training and a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between academia & industry, allowing you to apply your skills and knowledge to real world challenges, supporting future career opportunities in life sciences or beyond.

Key Responsibilities

  • Conducting primary and secondary research across a wide variety of sources – including clinical trial data, conference presentations and industry events – to provide updates to stakeholders and support them in understanding complex dynamics in drug development and commercialization.
  • Analyse research findings to develop actionable insights in deliverables such as presentation decks or data summaries.
  • Help develop data into succinct summaries and conclusions to drive high impact recommendations to support the project context and objectives.
  • Participate in client meetings and debriefs, presenting key elements as needed. Support creation of project proposals and other business development initiatives as required

Qualifications and Eligibility

  • Current PhD student in life sciences (3rd or 4th year strongly preferred)
    Please note, we can only accept applicants who have a requirement for an internship as part of their program. If you are unsure if this applies to you, please contact your university and reach out to Eradigm
  • BSc and/or MSc in a field relating to life sciences (e.g. biology, biosciences, biotechnology, pharmacology, physiology, drug discovery, pharmacy etc.)

Start and End Date

September 15th 2025 – December 19th 2025 (some flexibility is possible, but we aim to onboard PhD interns together on the same timeframe and so availability for these dates is strongly preferred)

  • Please note, PhD interns will be eligible for a pro rata number of annual leave days, meaning that pre-planned time off (e.g. holidays, conferences) should not be a problem.

Behavioural & Technical Competencies

  • Analysis: Create high quality, intuitive summaries using a wide variety of data types, both qualitative and quantitative, and have a good understanding of the commercial themes associated with projects.
  • Teamwork: Actively participate and collaborate with other team members to achieve a common goal and complete tasks in the most effective and efficient way.
  • Communication Skills: Communication within a team is crucial, including explaining scientific concepts, giving regular updates and presenting insights and data.
  • Self Confidence & Resilience: Confidence to take on demanding work or put forward views when they may be challenged. Able to handle competing demands, manage workload based on allocated time, manage stakeholder requests and learn from feedback.
  • Commercial Acumen: Have a strong interest in the pharma industry, with a clear idea of dynamics in the industry, pharma stakeholders and functions and how they interlink, as well as the product development lifecycle. Ensure credibility and professionalism is always upheld to the highest standards and to be seen by clients as a trusted, credible and expert thought partners for project-specific matters as well as other requests.
  • Research: Able to creatively identify and assemble highly relevant secondary information in a time effective manner using a wide range of sources. Conduct research efficiently, knowing when to stop and gauge if enough has been found.

Location

  • Successful applicants will be expected to travel to Eradigm’s London office for the first week to facilitate training and to meet the team, with subsequent on-site touchpoints (expected to average ~1 per week)
  • Financial support will be provided for accommodation/travel costs up to £1,000 (see below for full details)
  • London Office Location: Work.Life, 6-7 St Cross St, London, EC1N, 8UB, UK
  • Outside of this mandatory on-site time, interns may work remotely using equipment provided by Eradigm, or attend the London office, depending on their location

    Eradigm may not provide a salary, in line with UKRI PIPS requirements. Interns should continue financially supporting themselves with their PhD stipend, but travel/accommodation costs of up to £1,000 total will be reimbursed, as needed.

Application Process

Submit 1-page CV to internships@eradigm.com by 20th July 2025 at midnight (at the latest, earlier applications will be reviewed first)

  • In this email, please also confirm whether you have a requirement for an internship as part of your PhD program, that you are based in the UK and your expected thesis hand-in date/month.

45-minute interview, including a ~25 min presentation of the case study
To start your application, or if you have any questions please contact internships@eradigm.com and one of the team will get back to you.

Short, informal call with an Eradigm team member to answer any of your questions.

Complete a case study over 3-days to showcase your research and analysis skills, and receive feedback from the team to make any improvements.

PIPS Opportunities: Learn to Discover (L2D)

Big Brain Innovations Ltd. (BBI Ltd.), is a spun-out UCL enterprise creating and delivering advanced
training materials for professional technical development of bio and health science researchers. BBI Ltd. was formed by the members of the UCL Department of Cell & Developmental Biology who led the development of the MRC/BBSRC-funded L2D (Learn to Discover) platform for professional education in data science, machine/deep learning and AI approaches for research, discovery and innovation. BBI Ltd is the exclusive licensed provider of L2D training across the UK and around the world and now seeks to develop further, both the business and the advanced education services it provides.

The role(s) available:

There are currently four positions available, with example responsibilities listed but not limited to the following:

  1. Educational Content and Curriculum Developer
    ● Assist in the development of a brand-new AI module in partnership with Microsoft
    ● Developing a new, generic Basic Python module for cross-discipline learning
    ● Managing advanced case study development and workshops
    ● Construct core-material coding exercises, based on taught concepts: including, but not
    limited to, ecological, epidemiological, microscopical and biochemical datasets and
    problems
  2. Automation Specialist and Educational Technologist
    ● Analysing feedback, and creating action points and targets
    ● Automating business processes (certification, grading and issuing of feedback)
    ● Review course material, its compliance with accessibility standards, and update in line
    with findings.
  3. Digital Marketing and Web Analyst
    ● Website analytics, SEO, marketing: review and strategise
    ● Setting up a CRM and managing a monthly newsletter
    ● Managing our LinkedIn posts
    ● Running and curating the blog on the L2D website
  4. VR Programmer and Workshop Coordinator
    ● VR programming
    ● Managing advanced case study development and workshops
    ● High-dimensional datasets: contribute to immersive data analysis workshops and study

Experience offered

● Working with a small, highly dynamic and dedicated team
● An interdisciplinary role, with a unique opportunity to combine and synergise academic and
creative skills
● Experience managing an academic-focused start-up company with an excellent prior track
record, operating from within UCL
● Contributing to a unique, cutting-edge, award-winning course, empowering specialised
bioscientists and medics with skills in analysing large high-throughput scientific datasets and
supercharging discovery and innovation

Application process

BBI Ltd. staff are available for informal discussions at any stage. Please contact Hannah Heaven at
admin@learntodiscover.ai to arrange an appointment. All applications should be made through your DTP in the first instance.

PIPS Opportunity: Generation Research

GenerationResearch is a charitable initiative that provides paid summer studentships, Masters
by Research and PhDs to students from underrepresented groups. Our mission is to widen
access to research and careers in STEMM in order to be inclusive and diverse in answering the
question; who will our next generation of scientists be?

GenerationResearch is run by volunteers at the University of York, and we are seeking a
placement student to assist with various tasks in running the GenRes initiative. The successful
candidate will work with the GenerationResearch team, various wider teams at the University of
York, as well as GenRes partner universities and employer partners.

Generation Research | Paid technical and research experiences for students

Project Overview

GenerationResearch is offering an exciting opportunity for a PIPS student to apply data
analysis, social media marketing and relationship management in a charitable STEMM context.

The tasks involved in the project include:

● Supporting the creation of fundraising messaging and donor relationship building.
● Support the creation and publishing of social media posts.
● Analysing, visualising and presenting anonymised data from studentship applications to
provide insights into demographics of students who have applied, students who have
been interviewed, and students who have been successful in gaining a
GenerationResearch placement.
● Attending the annual GenerationResearch Symposium at the University of York on
Tuesday 9th September, and assisting with tasks in the lead up to and after the event.
● Supporting the GenerationResearch team with marketing and fundraising planning in
the lead up to Giving Day, the University of York’s annual crowdfunding campaign in
early November.
● Other duties commensurate with the role as needed, and we are welcome to
suggestions from the candidate once they get to grips with the role.
The successful applicant can expect to have regular contact, guidance and support from
various members of the GenRes team, including Founder/Director Dr Jillian Barlow.

The successful applicant can expect to have regular contact, guidance and support from
various members of the GenRes team, including Founder/Director Dr Jillian Barlow.

Timeframe

The exact timing can be confirmed with the successful applicant, though we expect the role to
begin on Tuesday 26th August and end on Friday 14th November. The project is anticipated to
run for 12 weeks. This is a contract for Monday to Friday 9-5pm, with a one hour lunch break.

Candidate Requirements

The successful candidate would ideally have experience in content creation, relationship
management and data analysis. The candidate will be expected to work independently,
alongside regular contact with the GenRes team.

The role is a hybrid between working at home and in the office at the University of York. The
balance of this can be agreed with the candidate.

Benefits to student undertaking this project

This project is a great opportunity to gain and develop experience in charitable STEMM
communication, data analysis, fundraising and relationship management, with opportunities to
develop contacts which could be helpful to someone considering a future career in STEMM
research or industry. The successful applicant can be expected to be treated as a member of
the GenerationResearch team that sits within the University of York, and as such, will benefit
from professional development, cross functional working, interaction with wider stakeholders
and an opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of higher education fundraising.

How to apply:

A CV and covering letter should be sent to the GenerationResearch team at
gen-res-project@york.ac.uk with the email subject: “PIPS Application: {Your name}” before
11:59pm on Monday 30th June 2025.

Interviews will take place in mid July prior to the project starting in late August.
Should you have any questions prior to applying, please do not hesitate to get in touch at
gen-res-project@york.ac.uk.

PIPS Opportunity: MetalloBio Antimicrobial Coating

MetalloBio is an antimicrobial development company working on completely novel types of antibacterial compounds. With two compound series, MetalloBio is developing Series 1 compounds as candidate antibiotics for complicated and difficult-to-treat infections. Series 2 compounds are the basis of new coatings for medical devices such as catheters and orthopaedic implants. Both series of compounds have novel but distinctly different modes of action in killing bacteria, reducing the risk of the emergence of resistant bacteria.

Project Overview

Healthcare-acquired infections represent a significant cost to the NHS, and increase the occupation of critical NHS bed space, whilst posing a lethal risk to patients. Infections are also among the top reasons for attending A&E with the most deprived communities of the UK having the highest rates of infection and A&E attendance, leading to higher rates of admissions and deaths compared to the rest of the population. To tackle this, MetalloBio is developing antimicrobial materials, that utilise the Series 2 compounds, to prevent and control the spread of infection in primary healthcare settings.

MetalloBio’s antimicrobial plastics have demonstrated activity against relevant bacteria at low loadings showing the potential for a more cost-effective performance than what is currently available. To fully understand the relevant product design requirements, MetalloBio utilises multiple sources of information, one of which is competitor products. Whether they are in development or clinically available, these products highlight what other companies or researchers deem as required. It will also involve conducting interviews with industry professionals through events such as trade shows.  Understanding the needs of this market helps to direct product development towards materials that compete with, or preferably perform better than, currently available products. MetalloBio will provide training enabling you to prepare for and conduct such primary research. Training will also be provided to enable you to confidently and clearly communicate with industry professionals during interviews and discussions.

Example project endpoints of the project could include a Pugh matrix that compares MetalloBio’s technology to currently available products and a product description that contributes to MetalloBio’s continued business justification.

Essential Skills

  • Ability to conduct methodical research
  • Experience conducting literature reviews
  • Communication and presentation skills
  • Ability to disseminate complex scientific research to a non-scientific audience

Skills Developed

  • Independent working & working as part of a small team
  • Competitor analysis and insights
  • Product development
  • Interview skills
  • Working under Prince2 Project Management
  • Understanding regulatory aspects of medical device development
  • Presenting a business case

Possible Timeframe

3 months part time with flexibility to start from September.

Application Process

To apply please email CV and short cover letter to matthew.culbert@metallobio.com.

Isabelle Boon – Mass Spectrometry Facility, University of Leeds

Where did you go and what did you do?

I completed my internship at the Leeds FBS Mass Spectrometry Facility, where I was primarily involved in a range of projects related to proteomics and intact mass spectrometry. My main responsibilities included sample preparation for proteomics analysis and overseeing the running and analysis of intact mass spectrometry samples as part of the facility’s service.

A key aspect of my role was method optimisation—I worked on refining protocols for a new column in the intact mass spectrometer, ensuring improved performance and reliability.

I was also involved in method development for a liquid handling robot, which aimed to automate sample preparation of proteomics samples, thereby increasing efficiency and consistency in laboratory workflows.

Outside of the lab, I was responsible for driving the application for our LEAF Bronze Award, which recognises laboratories implementing sustainable practices, and we were awarded the LEAF Bronze award recently. I also created a poster showcasing the facility’s capabilities and potential applications, which was presented at the Astbury Open Day 2024—and it was awarded first prize!

What made you want to do that particular PIPS?

Mass spectrometry is a powerful analytical tool with a wide range of applications. As I previously had only limited experience with running mass spec samples as part of my own PhD project, I was keen to learn more this technique, from sample preparation to data analysis, and gain some more hands-on experience.

Beyond the technical aspects, I was also interested in understanding how a research facility operates. This internship provided valuable insight into the day-to-day management, service provision, and method development processes that support a wide range of scientific projects in a variety of disciplines.

What skills have you gained from your PIPS?

From a technical standpoint, I gained hands-on experience in intact and proteomics mass spectrometry, whilst also improving my proficiency with commonly used analysis software, writing SOPs for other users to assist in their data analysis.

Furthermore, I gained experience in science communication through the design and presentation of a facility poster showcasing our capabilities and potential applications. Leading the application for the LEAF Bronze award also strengthened my project management skills.

Developing a method for the liquid handling robot required a lot of problem solving, and for both this, and many other aspects of my PIPs, I needed to be able to understand and apply a wide variety of information. This allowed me to build upon the skills developed during my PhD, but challenged me to employ these skills to digest a much broader range of material, on topics I was unfamiliar with.

What has been the impact (or likely future impact) of your PIPS?

Starting out in the mass spec facility was more challenging than I thought it would be, as I was moving from a lab where I was an ‘expert’ in my own project, to an environment where I had little to no technical expertise. This meant a steep learning curve! However, by being involved in running the facility and developing my technical skills dramatically improved my confidence, as I realised there were many transferrable skills that I had gained from my PhD which I could utilise during my placement in the facility.

I hope that my contributions, such as method optimisation, SOP development, and automation improvements, have streamlined workflows and will benefit future users. Leading the LEAF Bronze Award application also promoted sustainable lab practices with a lasting impact.

Most importantly, I’ve built lasting friendships with the amazing mass spec team, making this an incredibly rewarding experience both professionally and personally.

How would you sum up your PIPS experience?

Overall, my internship provided valuable hands-on experience in mass spectrometry, method development, sustainability initiatives, and scientific communication, allowing me to develop both my technical expertise and transferable skills.

What advice would you give to other PGRs about PIPS?

I would encourage other PGRs to choose a PIPS placement that challenges them and helps them develop new skills. It’s a great opportunity to gain hands-on experience in an area you’re interested in but may not have had formal training in.

Don’t be afraid to reach out to places that aren’t actively recruiting— many opportunities aren’t advertised, but asking around or just having chats in the corridor can lead to unexpected opportunities!

PIPS Opportunity: QIAGEN Manchester (multiple intakes)

Overview

QIAGEN is the leading global provider of Sample to Insight solutions to transform biological materials into valuable molecular insights. QIAGEN sample technologies isolate and process DNA, RNA and proteins from blood, tissue and other materials. Assay technologies make these biomolecules visible and ready for analysis. Bioinformatics software and knowledge bases interpret data to report relevant, actionable insights. Automation solutions tie these together in seamless and cost-effective molecular testing workflows. QIAGEN provides these workflows to more than 500,000 customers around the world.

Read morePIPS Opportunity: QIAGEN Manchester (multiple intakes)

Andrew Cowan – Open Innovation Team (Department of Education)

Where did you go and what did you do?

I completed my PIPS placement at the Open Innovation Team (OIT) who carry out policy work for different UK government policy departments. The primary focus of the team is to bring academic voices into the policymaking process and to provide policymakers with up-to-date research on an issue.

Whilst at the OIT I worked on several projects across a diverse range of policy areas. Initially, I was placed on a team who were looking into decarbonisation strategies for small and medium enterprises (SMEs) for the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ). I was involved in interviewing academics and other stakeholders and was able to lead a few of these interviews towards the end. I also was involved in the report drafting stage and delivered the final presentation to DESNZ in their Whitehall offices.

Following this, I then worked on a project looking into the adoption of generative AI in schools which was commissioned by the Department for Education (DofE). I helped to organise a series of panel discussions by identifying academic experts who were invited to discuss several key questions areas on this topic.

As a cohort of placement students, we attended training sessions to get us up to speed on conducting interviews, drafting OIT reports/slide decks, and also to provide a more general understanding of the civil service structure.

What made you want to do that particular PIPS?

I was open to a number of PIPS options, though I was leaning towards a policy-based placement as this is an area where I had little experience. The diversity of topics that the OIT worked on was also attractive.

What skills have you gained from your PIPS?

Carrying out and conducting interviews was an area which I had little to no experience in before my PIPS placement. At the end of the first project, I was confident enough to lead several 1 hour + interviews which required prior research of the academic and the generation of a tailored set of questions.

The drafting process involved in producing OIT output for the client was very fast paced, dynamic, and different to what I had experienced before. Initially, this was a big learning curve, but I soon got to grips with the process.

Lastly, owing to working on a diversity of policy areas it was important to be able to orientate yourself with the general background research of that topic in a timely fashion.

What has been the impact (or likely future impact) of your PIPS?

I was able to contribute to several projects at the OIT, some of them still ongoing. Owing to the small team at the OIT, PhD placement students are necessary to facilitate the project work. In return the placement offers an experience whereby you are given a good deal of responsibility early on.

The impact the PIPS placement has had on me has been to continue my interest in working on research that has policy impact. It has also provided me with a greater understanding on the different ways that academics can achieve policy impact with their research.

How would you sum up your PIPS experience?

My PIPS experience was entirely positive. It provided me with a supportive and interesting environment to experience what it is like to work in policy.

What advice would you give to other PGRs about PIPS?

I would take time to think about what skills/experience you have and what areas you would like to gain experience in. It is very rare in your career path that you are going to be given the freedom for 3 months to try something completely different so don’t waste it.

Read more about the Open Innovation Team.

PIPS Opportunities: yet2 (open deadline)

Open Innovation & Technology Scouting Placement Opportunity

yet2 is a global open innovation and technology scouting services company with offices in the US, Europe (Liverpool and Nottingham) and Asia and works across a range of company sizes and engages with: Global 1000, Small/Medium Enterprises, Venture Capitalists, Incubators, Accelerators, Research Institutions and Technology Brokers.  They work across all disciplines but have a strong client base in consumer healthcare, pharmaceutical, medical devices, and agricultural technology – see the Active Projects page for an overview of the variety of work we cover. 

Read morePIPS Opportunities: yet2 (open deadline)

PIPS Opportunity: Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry (ABPI)

12 weeks PIPS project 2025: Science Communication – STEM education

The ABPI exists to make the UK the best place in the world to research, develop and use new medicines. They represent companies of all sizes who invest in discovering the medicines of the future.

Their members supply cutting edge treatments that improve and save the lives of millions of people. They work in partnership with Government and the NHS so patients can get new treatments faster and the NHS can plan how much it spends on medicines. Every day, they partner with organisations in the life sciences community and beyond to transform lives across the UK.

Read morePIPS Opportunity: Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry (ABPI)

Sophie Fountain – Exciting Instruments

Where did you go and what did you do?

I completed my PIPS placement at Exciting Instruments, an innovative start-up specialising in the development of high-throughput scientific instruments. My primary focus during the placement was performing Fluorescence Correlation Spectroscopy (FCS) and Fluorescence Cross-Correlation Spectroscopy (FCCS) experiments to support the development of their latest high-throughput instrument. This involved optimising experimental protocols, analysing data, and troubleshooting technical challenges.

Read moreSophie Fountain – Exciting Instruments

Abby Walklett – Diamond Light Source

Where did you go and what did you do?

I went to the Diamond Light Source (DLS) in Didcot, Oxfordshire. I worked alongside crystallographers at the VMXi beam, and was supervised specifically by Dr. Halina Mikolajek. The VMXi beam at DLS specialise in in situ crystallisation, wherein X-ray crystallography data is collected from crystals at room temperature from inside the 96-well plates within which they initially grew. A benefit to collecting data in situ is that you can collect data from multiple microcrystals in time-resolved crystallography experiments.

Read moreAbby Walklett – Diamond Light Source

Isaac Reynolds – Sense About Science

Where did you go and what did you do?

I did my PIPS with the charity Sense about Science, an organisation that was set up to promote the public interest in sound science and evidence. Through various projects Sense about Science advocates for transparency in all areas across Government, research, and industry. I was able to get involved in many of these projects, the biggest of which was Evidence Week.

Read moreIsaac Reynolds – Sense About Science

PIPS Opportunity: Academy of Medical Sciences Policy Internship Scheme 2025/26 (deadline: 3rd February 2025)

The Academy of Medical Sciences is welcoming applications for its open policy internship scheme in 2025/26. Our policy internship is designed to give PhD students first-hand experience of the medical science policy environment, to gain insights into how research can impact on policy, and to build valuable networks with the UK’s most eminent medical scientists and key science and health stakeholders.

This internship builds on over ten years of experience of running internships at the Academy and broadens access to a wider range of PhD students.

We are looking to work with PhD funders, HEIs, DTPs or research institutes to offer UK-based PhD students the opportunity to join the Academy’s policy team for a three-month internship to gain insights into how research can impact on policy, develop new skills in communication and influencing, and build valuable networks with the UK’s most eminent medical scientists.

Read on for more details and the link to apply.

Read morePIPS Opportunity: Academy of Medical Sciences Policy Internship Scheme 2025/26 (deadline: 3rd February 2025)

PIPS Opportunity: Sygnature Discovery (open deadline)

Sygnature Discovery is a world-leading integrated drug discovery Contract Research Organisation based in the UK and Canada with its headquarters in Nottingham and additional facilities in Alderley Park, Macclesfield, Glasgow, Montreal and Quebec City. Its staff of over 1,000, which includes 900 scientists, partners with global pharma, biotech and NFP organisations.

Since 2004, Sygnature Discovery has delivered over 40 novel pre-clinical and 22 clinical compounds, with its scientists named on over 170 patents. Therapeutic areas of expertise include oncology, inflammation and immunology, neuroscience, metabolic diseases, infectious diseases, fibrotic diseases and more. To find out more, please visit www.sygnaturediscovery.com.

Read morePIPS Opportunity: Sygnature Discovery (open deadline)

PIPS Opportunity: The Company of Biologists: Community Site internships

The Company of Biologists is looking for one or more interns, through the BBSRC DTP/PIPS or equivalent schemes, to work on our community sites – the Node, preLights and FocalPlane. This is a great opportunity to gain experience in the rapidly growing online science communication environment, to develop writing skills, and to learn about academic publishing.

Together, the Company’s three community sites provide platforms for the research community to share news, discuss issues relevant to the field and read about the latest research and events. The Node is a field-specific site for developmental biologists, FocalPlane aims to bring together the microscopy and biology communities, and preLights is focussed on highlighting the preprint literature and exploring the journey from preprint to publication. The intern will be involved in the day-to-day running of one or more of the sites, and will be mentored by the relevant Community Manager(s). The internship will be based in the office in Cambridge.

Read morePIPS Opportunity: The Company of Biologists: Community Site internships

PIPS Opportunity: The Company of Biologists: Citation Metrics 2025

The Company of Biologists is a not-for-profit organisation and publishes the three internationally renowned, established journals Journal of Cell Science, Development and Journal of Experimental Biology, as well as the two fully Open Access journals Disease Models & Mechanisms (DMM) and Biology Open (BiO). The organisation has an active programme of charitable giving for the further advancement of biological research, including travelling fellowships for junior scientists and contributions to academic societies and conferences.

They offer Professional Internships for PhD students. Each internship is carefully defined, both with the institute and the individual, and usually involves projects with our journal teams. 

Each year they recruit an intern (usually through the PIPS programme) to work on a project in Citation Metrics.

Read morePIPS Opportunity: The Company of Biologists: Citation Metrics 2025

PIPS Opportunity: Random42 Scientific Communication (open deadline)

Random42 Scientific Communication provides digital scientific communication solutions to the pharmaceutical and biotech industries. Random42 consists of scientists, artists, animators and programmers, who collaborate to effortlessly intertwine the worlds of science, art and technology, producing some of the most impactful scientific imagery, stories and interactive experiences. The team of in-house scientists hold PhDs in areas of molecular biology, and work across the full range of therapeutic areas we cover.

Address: Random42 Scientific Communication, 114-116 Marylebone Lane, London, W1U 2HH, UK

Website: https://random42.com/ 

Read morePIPS Opportunity: Random42 Scientific Communication (open deadline)

Sense About Science – varying deadlines

Sense about Science logo

Sense About Science are currently advertising for internship vacancies and now have a new dedicated webpage for internships on their website.

Sense About Science offer rewarding internship opportunities for PhD students to gain experience of working in a busy campaigning charity across science communications, policy and public engagement. They typically offer three-month placements in their London office and only consider short-term internship applications as part of a funded scheme, such as the PIPS professional internship scheme for PhD students.  

 

Read moreSense About Science – varying deadlines

Royal Institute – various roles – Apply by 25 July 2023 (one role is 8 Aug)

Logo for the Royal Institution: Science Lives Here

The Royal Institution (Ri) is looking for nine Phd students to join us for a three-month internship across four different teams within the Ri: CHRISTMAS LECTURES (x1), Digital Media (x4), Marketing & Communications (x1) and the Young Scientist Centre (x3).  These placements are ideal for students interested in science education and communication, and education outreach.

Read moreRoyal Institute – various roles – Apply by 25 July 2023 (one role is 8 Aug)

BBSRC ICURe Explore Programme – Deadline 27th March 2023

Applications are now open for the BBRSC ICURe Explore programme, designed to help bioscience researchers, PhD students and technicians to explore the market and commercial potential of their bioscience research projects. Up to £35k of funding is available to ‘get out of the lab’ and validate commercially promising bioscience ideas in the marketplace.

Read moreBBSRC ICURe Explore Programme – Deadline 27th March 2023

BBSRC White Rose DTP PhD Students Organize Pint of Science Event in York

A group of BBSRC White Rose DTP students from the University of York have teamed up to organize this year’s Pint of Science event in York – bringing cutting-edge research to a boozer near you. We spoke to event co-ordinator, and 3rd Year PhD student, Conor Scott to learn more about the event and what he hopes it will achieve.

Read moreBBSRC White Rose DTP PhD Students Organize Pint of Science Event in York

Royal Institution – Apply by 12 Apr 2022

The Royal Institution is looking for a PhD student to take on an internship as a Science Presenter Intern in our Young Scientist Centre for a 3-month placement to gain experience of presenting to a group of young people in an engaging, educational environment and to receive training in science communication. The internship is from May to July 2022, with some flexibility.

The successful intern will:

  • Present hands-on science workshops to young people in the LYSC.
  • Research and develop hands-on science experiments for Ri social media content.
  • Work with the YSC team to develop content for other Ri activities.

For more information about our internship programme and details on individual placements, timeframes and how to apply, please see our website; https://www.rigb.org/about-us/work-with-us

The closing date for receipt of applications has been extended to 9am Tuesday 12 April 2022

Interviews are now planned for 26 & 27 April.

Please note, the Ri offers placements for students who are enrolled on a research degree under the Doctoral Training Partnership programme funded by Research Councils including the BBSRC, EPSRC, ESRC, MRC, AHRC and NERC.  

You will need to obtain the grant holder’s written permission to undertake the placement, outlining any funding arrangements, before a position can be offered. [Note from the DTP Co-ordinator, Catherine Liddle: You will normally be sent a form to complete. Please forward this onto me, email: WRDTP@leeds.ac.uk]

The role is based in Central London; students will be expected to base themselves within or near to London for the period of the placement.

[Note: The RI will cover the travel cost of one return journey to the placement. The DTP PIPS allowance for travel and accommodation is £1,000 over the 3 month period. You will therefore need to find additional sources of funding to pay for accommodation in London for the duration of this placement.]

If you have any queries or need any further information about the Ri or these opportunities, please contact us at recruitment@ri.ac.uk  

Kind regards,

Rakhshanda Hussain

HR Coordinator

Working days: Tuesday – Friday

Royal Institution, 21 Albemarle Street, London W1S 4BS

e: rhussain@ri.ac.uk

t: 020 7670 2907

www.rigb.org

Joanna Greenman – CN-Bio Innovations

CN-BIO logo

Joanna went to CN-Bio Innovations in Cambridge for her PIPS placement, a bioengineering company that specialises in developing single and multi-organ microphysiological systems and innovative lab technologies. They interact with many different pharma and biotech companies to improve the effectiveness and efficiency of preclinical drug testing with clinically translatable systems.

The featured image is the logo of CN-Bio Innovations.

What did you do?

I worked with the research and development team to try and introduce and integrate immune cells into their established organ on chip systems. A couple of previous preliminary experiments had been done, but my main role was to get this project up and running and generate a core dataset to understand how it can be introduced into other systems. I also participated in team meetings, journal clubs, Toastmaster and wrote a research proposal for the CEO to outline the plan for the project and future applications of my findings.

What made you want to do that particular placement?

I was keen to explore what research outside of academia looked like and see first-hand how a relatively small biotech company worked.  The research that they are doing was also very different from anything I had done before and offered me the opportunity to apply my immunology background in a very different scenario – with a more application-based outlook.

How did you go about finding and planning your PIPS?

I did quite a lot of searching for biotech companies around areas where I had friends and family so I could have a chance to live in a different location for 3 months.  Through family and friends links I heard about CN-Bio and emailed them to introduce myself.  I then had quite an informal phone conversation/interview to find out more about the company and talk about what a placement might look like.  It kind of just went from there with just a few more emails to finalise details and agree dates (~6months from the initial phone call).

What have you gained from doing your PIPS?

I have really appreciated being able to talk to so many of the different employees from different areas of the company (CEO and management, engineers, marketing, production and R&D) to learn about all the different roles and how they have come to be working for CN-Bio. I have gained confidence in my communication skills, presenting to different audiences and collaborating with many different people. It has also been good, but quite challenging, to be starting a new project from almost nothing and doing a lot of the initial proof of concept work, set-up, background research and problem solving.

How would you sum up your PIPS experience?

It has been a really good chance to try a very different area of research with very different end goals and targets compared with my PhD. I have learnt a lot about the workings of a company and really appreciated the healthy work life balance they encouraged.

What advice would you give to other PGRs about PIPS?

Start looking early and be willing to try something out of your comfort zone/completely new. Use any connections that you may have from friends and family to help you find your placements. Talk to as many people as you can wherever you are and find out about their career path/what they do.

Niche medical writing – Apply anytime

Niche Science and Technology logo

Niche Science and Technology Ltd have recently advertised some medical writing roles for new PhD graduates.  See post on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/feed/update/urn:li:activity:6904758177192370176

They can also potentially take our students on PIPS placements.  Have a look at their website:

http://www.niche.org.uk/

If you are interested in exploring a PIPS opportunity with them, please contact our alumnus (2021 graduate), Ben Stevenson directly for an informal discussion, email: ben.stevenson@niche.org.uk

ABPI industry/academic links – Apply by 31st March 2022

Association of the British Pharmaceutical Institute (ABPI) logo

Background information

Every two years ABPI, as the trade association of the UK pharmaceutical industry, monitors the training interactions pharmaceutical companies have with UK universities. These include undergraduate placements, PhD studentships and postdoctoral fellowships.

Collaborations between industry and academic institutions will also be identified and highlighted as part of this project.

Project offered

We are seeking a PIPS student to apply their scientific and project management experience in a policy context. The output of the project will be an interactive report for publication by ABPI and a slide set which can be used in presentations which highlight the contribution the pharmaceutical industry makes to the training of young people.

The project will be supervised by Andrew Croydon, Director of Skills & Education and Examinations, ABPI.

Timing

The project is ideally to be started around April-June 2022 but there could be some flexibility applied on discussion.

Location

The ABPI office is based at 105 Victoria St, London SW1E 6QT, although we have been predominantly home working since early 2020 and have hosted a number of interns remotely over the past 2 years – exact method of working open to discussion depending on Government advice at the time.

Benefits to student undertaking this project

This project will give the student an excellent overview of the biopharmaceutical sector and the interactions industry has with universities.

Contacts may be developed which could be helpful to someone considering a future career in industry.

Funding

Expenses will be refunded in line with ABPI standard expenses policy. Travel expenses for commuting into London (if applicable) will be paid.

How to apply

For more detailed information on the project contact Andrew Croydon (acroydon@abpi.org.uk; 0207 747 1436)

A CV and letter of application should be sent by email to Andrew Croydon, Director of Skills & Education and Examinations, ABPI.

The closing date for applications is close of business on 31st March 2022.

Qiagen Oct 2022 to Aug 2023 – Apply ASAP

Qiagen logo

Making improvements in life possible

QIAGEN Manchester Ltd
CityLabs 2.0
200 Hathersage Road
Manchester
M13 0BH

www.qiagen.com

LinkedIn | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | YouTube

QIAGEN is the leading global provider of Sample to Insight solutions to transform biological
materials into valuable molecular insights. QIAGEN sample technologies isolate and process DNA,
RNA and proteins from blood, tissue and other materials. Assay technologies make these
biomolecules visible and ready for analysis. Bioinformatics software and knowledge bases
interpret data to report relevant, actionable insights. Automation solutions tie these together in
seamless and cost-effective molecular testing workflows. QIAGEN provides these workflows to more than 500,000 customers around the world.

QIAGEN employ approximately 6,000 people in over 35 locations worldwide. Our mission is to make improvements in life possible by enabling our customers to achieve outstanding success
and breakthroughs in life sciences, applied testing, pharma and molecular diagnostics. Our
commitment to the markets, customers and patients we serve drives our innovation and investment in all areas where our Sample to Insight technologies are required. The exceptional talent, skill and passion of our employees are key to QIAGEN’s excellence, success and value.

Project outline

In QIAGEN Manchester we focus on delivering solutions which facilitate personalised
healthcare. You will join a highly motivated team working on developing Molecular Diagnostic
PCR-based assays.

Duties that will be required:

  • Design, plan and perform studies for individual research project to support the
  • development of new diagnostic products
  • Ensure that experiments are completed to the required quality and regulatory
  • standards
  • Analyse and present results in written reports
  • Work as part of the product development team to ensure a safe and efficient laboratory environment

Essential skills

  • University degree and currently completing a PhD in a relevant field
  • Experience in molecular biology (PCR, RT-PCR, primer design, dPCR, NGS)
  • Good analytical skills and attention to detail
  • Planning and problem solving
  • Positive attitude and self-motivated

Skills developed during placement

  • Work experience in a professional environment
  • Experience in new molecular biology techniques
  • Day to day work following quality and regulatory standards

Number of Placements Offered: flexible
Possible Timeframe: Start dates are flexible between October 2022 to August 2023. The placement will last for a period of 3 months.

How to apply

Submit your application to the following contacts at QIAGEN:
James Curran (James.Curran@qiagen.com) and Brandon Foster (Brandon.Foster@qiagen.com)
Please include the following in email subject: PhD placement – “your name”.