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.
Additionally, I contributed to the preparation of application notes, which showcased the instrument’s features and potential applications. These documents were designed to help prospective users understand how the technology could meet their specific needs. My work required both scientific rigour and effective communication skills to translate complex technical details into accessible and engaging content.
What made you want to do that particular PIPS?
I was particularly interested in gaining first-hand experience of working in industry and wanted to understand what it’s like to be part of a start-up company. This placement offered a unique opportunity to see how innovation is driven in a commercial environment, from the early stages of development to the production of market-ready instruments. I was also curious to explore how my academic background could be applied in a non-academic setting, and Exciting Instruments provided the perfect platform for this.
What skills have you gained from your PIPS?
During my placement, I developed a wide range of valuable skills, including:
- Presentation skills: I delivered regular progress updates to the team, refining my ability to communicate scientific findings clearly and concisely.
- Scientific writing: Preparing application notes improved my ability to write for a professional audience and tailor technical content to suit different stakeholders.
- Experimental design skills: I learned how to plan and optimise experiments in a way that balances scientific rigour with practical constraints, a skill that will be invaluable in future research or industry roles.
These skills not only enhanced my confidence in my abilities but also strengthened my adaptability in a fast-paced work environment.
What has been the impact (or likely future impact) of your PIPS?
The placement has significantly broadened my understanding of the career opportunities available beyond academia. It allowed me to see how my technical expertise can be directly applied to solving real-world problems in a commercial context.
Moreover, the insights I gained into the workings of a start-up—such as the importance of agility, teamwork, and clear communication—have inspired me to explore a career that bridges the gap between science and industry. I believe this experience will serve as a strong foundation for my professional development and open doors to roles in research and development, application support, or technical consultancy.
How would you sum up your PIPS experience?
My PIPS experience was both rewarding and challenging. Working in a start-up environment pushed me to adapt quickly, embrace new challenges, and contribute meaningfully to the team’s goals. It was an enriching opportunity to apply my scientific skills in a practical setting, and I left the placement with a deeper appreciation of how innovation can thrive in industry.
What advice would you give to other PGRs about PIPS?
Choose a placement that aligns with your interests while also pushing you beyond your comfort zone. A start-up environment, for example, offers a fantastic opportunity to gain exposure to a wide range of tasks and responsibilities.
Be proactive in seeking opportunities to learn from colleagues and ask for feedback on your contributions. Finally, approach the placement with an open mind—it’s a chance to explore different career paths and gain invaluable insights that can shape your future decisions.