Forensic & Analytical Chemistry (MChem)Stuart Murray, Bioanalytical Scientist
Stuart Murray came to Strathclyde to study an MChem in Forensic & Analytical Chemistry. As part of the course, Stuart undertook a one-year industrial placement at a global contract research organisation, where he was then offered a full-time job after successfully completing his degree.
A day in the life
My alarm goes off
And I go to work as a Bioanalytical Scientist. I analyse pre-clinical and clinical samples to help in the safety testing of new drugs and treatments.
I’m responsible for
As a research scientist, I am responsible for managing projects, scheduling, prioritising, and client communication. I use my chemistry and scientific knowledge to run studies and manage a team of analysts, while nurturing the career development of my team.
My course prepared me for work
By providing an industrial placement year. This was invaluable for gaining experience and learning how to apply what I was learning at university.
It gave me an insight into what work life would be like and how to apply soft skills in a professional environment.
My typical day
A typical day includes planning studies, communicating with clients, troubleshooting assays, and ensuring my staff members are set up for the day.
My most memorable work moment
My most memorable work moment so far has to be going from studying at Strathclyde as a student, to returning and presenting to current students about my career path.
The best part of my job
I feel like I am having a small impact in helping get new drugs and treatments to market and patients.
My advice for other graduates
Take full advantage of all the opportunities Strathclyde gives you. An industrial placement is invaluable and allows you to gain a lot of experience. The support that's given beyond learning your degree, such as career talks from professionals, lab time, and developing soft skills to take forward into any career is also great.