July 2009 | Third Year Placement
After completing my second year, I spent the summer doing a research placement at the University of Nottingham. My project was investigating the causes of the high lung cancer rates in Xuan Wei county, China, and the links present with the type of coal mined and used in the area. This was a 10 week placement, and the working hours were 9 to 5, but quite flexible as long as all the work was completed.
It was a relaxed atmosphere, and my supervisor was very helpful. My initial tasks were to carry out preliminary tests on the coal samples, and then, with the help of a research fellow, build a rig for combustion testing. I enjoyed this part as it was experimental, active and required creative problem solving skills.
By the end of the 10 weeks, the project had moved forward but no definitive conclusions had been reached. The possibility of continuing with the project as part of my third year research and development project was suggested by my supervisor, and I decided to take up this offer. I have now completed my third year, and I am glad I carried on with the project. My group achieved one of the highest marks in the year for the project, and I feel like our work was worthwhile. In addition, my supervisor has submitted a paper for publishing based on the work I did, which makes me a co-author!
There are many benefits to applying for a research placement, and I would recommend doing so to any student. It looks amazing on your CV, it gives you in insight into postgraduate study, it is very well paid, and it can open up unexpected opportunities.