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Pharma Careers seminar
On Tuesday the 22nd of November, the Biochemistry and Biotechnology held an information seminar regarding UCC’s MSc Biotechnology programme.
The Seminar took place online via Microsoft teams and was highly successful. It gave detailed insight into the Msc programme, from the perspective of both the course coordinator, Professor Tommie McCarthy, and from past students of the Master’s programme.
The MSc in Biotechnology is a one year master’s programme, designed to advance student’s knowledge in the industries of biopharmaceuticals, biotechnology and biomedical research, via 8 modules, practical sessions, career workshops, and a 6 month research placement.
Professor Tommie McCarthy led the seminar by giving a general overview of the Master’s course. He explained the application process of the course clearly and in detail, and spoke about the course content. Most notably, Professor McCarthy talked about the course’s 6 month research project and industry placement. The work placement element of the course makes it very appealing to those who may be interested in a future career in industry. That being said, the research project may also suit someone interested in pursuing a career in academia, as the research can be completed in a university research lab. The fact that students can decide where they complete their research project in accordance with their own future goals is another great aspect of this course.
Following Tommie McCarthy’s talk, we heard from two past students of the Master’s programme, Sophie McCarthy, Manufacturing Technician at BioMarin – BSc Biochemistry and Shauna Cremin, Associate QA specialist at Regeneron – BSc Genetics. The two past students discussed their experience of the programme, including how they went about getting their work placement as well as how the course benefitted future career prospects. It was great to gain first-hand knowledge about the course from past students who had experienced it themselves.
Overall, the seminar proved very informative and gave a very comprehensive overview of the programme. Many thanks to all that attended!
Katie O Riordan
3rd Year Biochemistry