The aim of this module is to provide students with experience of working in an industrial environment on original chemistry research to gain new laboratory and transferable skills. Students will develop an understanding of the practical application of theoretical and technical skills learned in Years 1 and 2 of their studies in a real-time, non-UoL off-campus work environment. Individual and team-based project activities will develop the student’s transferable skills and professional competences leading to enhanced employability.

(LO1) The students will have acquired new practical experiencre as appropriate to the placement

(LO2) The student will acquire knowledge of new chemistry based on the requirements of the placement

(LO3) Gain experience in a real work environment by assuming responsibility for tasks and completing these in a timely manner to the standards expected by the host organisation.

(LO4) Gain understanding of the host company/organisation. In doing so, broaden knowledge of the application of theoretical and practical chemistry in the relevant field/industry.

(LO5) Gain understanding of research project planning and management within a commercial context.

(S1) Communication (oral, written and visual) - Presentation skills – oral

(S2) Communication (oral, written and visual) - Presentation skills - written

(S3) Communication (oral, written and visual) - Following instructions/protocols/procedures

(S4) Communication (oral, written and visual) - Report writing

(S5) Time and project management - Personal organisation

(S6) Working in groups and teams - Time management

(S7) Personal attributes and qualities - Willingness to take responsibility

(S8) Commercial awareness - Relevant understanding of organisations

Briefing seminars prior to the internship (S1 and S2 of Year 2) where students receive essential instructions and information for a successful internship. Students will participate in preparatory bootcamp sessions in Year 2 delivered by Careers and Employability and will provide students with advice on sourcing placements.
Report writing is supported by guidance documents provided in Canvas and by feedback given in response to the literature essay. All new skills learnt at the company are on an individual basis and dictated by the specific requirements of each placement.

Each student is allocated an academic supervisor and moderator. The supervisor visits the student twice during the placement, once in Nov/Dec for a pastoral visit and then both moderator and supervisor visit for the final assessment in the summer. In addition, the programme director is available for support throughout the placement.
Note: students also take CHEM340 by distance learning.

Whilst working for the company, the student will be expected to carry out a research project as determined by the industrial supervisor. The student will:
- learn key lab skills and techniques as appropriate for the placement
- learn key transferable skills (team-working, taking responsibility, time management etc) as needed
- learn new chemistry based on the requirements of the placement
The skills will be learnt at the company and developed over the year of placement.

Students will be in contact remotely and in person with their academic supervisor and moderator. Students will also be in contact with the module coordinator.
Students will follow company rules and guidance on:

Health and safety at work;
Professional conduct;
Company practices/standards and organisation.