Placements are an excellent opportunity for students to gain new skills, network, and show future employers that they are dedicated to their degree subject and have the relevant work experience to back up their claims. There are two types of placements: industrial placements (placement years) and summer placements.

Industry placements (placement years)

Some universities have year-long industrial placements built into their degree courses. These are usually called; industry placements, year in industry. sandwhich year, or placement years. Most of the time students apply for a degree with an integrated placement when they apply from university, but sometimes this may be decided in the first year of study. Typically placement years are taken in between the second and third year of study. Under the watch of an assigned supervisor, they allow students to develop their skills and techniques which can help them in their future job-search. 

University career services usually help their students find industrial placements, especially when they are a requirement for their course. 

Examples of industry placements:

• GlaxoSmithKline offer placement schemes
• AstraZeneca offer industrial placements
• The Game and Wildlife trusts placements in ecology and conservation

The rate my placement website is a search tool for industry placements with reviews from previous students. 

Summer placements

If a work placement is not integrated into your studies you can still apply for summer internships or studentships, which can range in length from 1-12 weeks. Summer internships may be held in an industry or university setting. Your university careers service will be able to provide you with more details of companies that offer internships over the summer.

Some summer placements are unpaid, others offer to repay travel or accomadation expenses, and some pay a stipend. The level of payment will usually depend on the size of the organisation, the length of the placement, and the type of work you will be doing. Some universities may offer grants or bursaries for students taking placements relevant to their studies, so make sure you ask your careers service about this.

Funded studentships, internships & placements

We have compiled a list of RSB member organisations and supporting members that offer financial support for biology-based placements and studentships.

There is also support available in the form of bursaries and awards to attend conferences related to their discipline.