Work experience, studentships and placements give you hands-on experience, new opportunities, and knowledge and insight into different career paths. They can also build your skills outside of your academic studies, and look great on your your CV.

Work experience can be gained at any time; during school or college, whilst you are studying, in summer breaks, after graduation. 

Tips for finding work experience

• Be pro-active and make the most of what you know and who you know
• Ask your school or university careers advisors, teachers and lecturers
• Reach out to local businesses that employ biologists and scientists
• Reach out to family or friends who work in biology and might be able to help you find experience
• Remember that biologists may work in laboratories, schools, food production, offices, schools, museums, conservation organisations, zoos, clinical environments, veterinary practices, and many other places - be prepared to search very broadly
• Be enthusiastic when given opportunities

Whilst work experience in biology is very valuable, don't discount any work/voluntary experience you have that is not directly related to the career you want. If you have other experience, like a part time job or some volunteering, think about the transferable skills you can talk about in applications and interviews. Some of these skills will also be developed through your studying, for example; group projects (teamwork & communication), meeting your deadlines (organisation).

 Examples of transferable skills

• Communication
• Critical thinking
• Teamwork
• Time management and organisation
• Leadership
• Decision making