I Got Hired: Emma Hesketh

Posted on: 4 September 2025 by Richard Finch in Class of 2024

After graduating in 2024 with a BSc in Biological and Medical Sciences, Emma Hesketh began her Scientist Training Programme (STP) at Alder Hey Children’s Hospital alongside her studies at Manchester Metropolitan University.

How did you hear about your role?

I’m currently working full-time as a Trainee Respiratory and Sleep Clinical Scientist and studying part-time for a master’s degree at Manchester Metropolitan University.

I first heard about my current role in the second year of my undergraduate degree. We had multiple employers come in and talk about potential careers and applying for the NHS Scientist Training Programme (STP) was something I knew I wanted to do from the moment I heard about it.

How did you get to where you are now?

I really wanted to be on the STP, I am super passionate about the field I am in, so I think this provided a lot of motivation.

While at university I took part in a number of work experience opportunities. These included a HDR UK Biomedical Vacation Scholarship - an 8-week data science project alongside a medical consultant from Manchester Royal Infirmary, investigating the use of wearable temperature monitors.

I also took part in a science teaching internship at King's Leadership Academy, and also worked as a Liverpool Advocate throughout my degree, which really helped me to develop core professional skills and communicate with young people, which has made transitioning into my job much easier.

I am a highly motivated individual - I used the three years of my degree wisely and tried to enrich it as much as possible. Any opportunity which I thought was relevant (or not!) I would be grateful for.

I had lots of support including family and friends, the Biomedical science teaching staff from UOL, and the careers team at UOL – I used the Career Studio multiple times to prepare for any interview – a brilliant service!

Could you tell us about the recruitment process?

For the STP there is one recruitment cycle per year. I applied in January with a 1,000-word personal statement and completed situational judgment test in February.

The longlisting and shortlisting took place in March and April and then ranked locations (applying to job not location, can be placed anywhere in UK where there are posts available for your specialism).

Interviews took place in June, and you must rank highly to secure one of your preferred locations. I received a job offer in July!

Your favourite experience as part of your current role?

Helping children, young people and their families daily. It is very rewarding, and I am grateful for my interactions with patients.

The most challenging part of your graduate journey?

Starting the MSc and transitioning from undergraduate to master's level – I have found this more difficult than I had thought.

In my role I manage studying for my MSc, full time work and completing a portfolio of competencies. This can be quite difficult sometimes, it is something which I have got better at, but I have not perfected this yet!

What's your #1 piece of advice for future grads?

Be patient and kind to yourself, you don't have to know everything at once! It is a big transition moving into the world of work, which others understand, and don't expect you to start a role fully qualified!

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