<p>Find life challenging at times, trying to balance work, family, and everything else? Don&rsquo;t worry, you&rsquo;re not alone! Finding and maintaining the right work-life balance can be tricky to master but take the time to get it right and you may find you have more time for relaxing, spending time with loved ones, and generally doing what you enjoy most &ndash; all whilst continuing to thrive in your career.</p>
<p>Follow our easy-to-follow steps to help you improve time management, boost your productivity, and discover your ideal work-life balance.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>1) Make lists</strong></h2>
<p>Writing a &lsquo;to-do&rsquo; list not only helps to create a physical manifestation of your thoughts but also acts as an almost contractual promise to get these things done. When it&rsquo;s all down on paper it also seems less intimidating and far more structured than the thoughts that had been whirling around in our heads.</p>
<p>If you&rsquo;d rather not carry around a notepad and pen, there are many apps you can download onto your phone that will do the same job. &lsquo;To do list&rsquo; is very easy to use and with an upgrade to the premium version, you can even share your lists with your boss.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>2) Prioritise</strong></h2>
<p>Prioritising is a great skill to cultivate. When you&rsquo;re swamped, determining which task to perform first without wasting vital minutes of your day could make a world of difference.<br><br>However, always examine deadlines to establish the true situation - people asking you to do things will often say &lsquo;now&rsquo; when &lsquo;later today&rsquo; would be perfectly acceptable. Appeal to the other person&rsquo;s own sense of time management: it&rsquo;s impossible for anyone to do a good job without the opportunity to plan and prioritise.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>3) Log your time</strong></h2>
<p>What seems more efficient: setting one day aside to complete a task or splitting it into smaller chunks and finishing it over two days? Some believe that dedicating a single period of time to a project is more productive, but how much work would you actually be doing by chaining yourself to your desk for so many hours? There will inevitably be some moments of staring into space and clock-watching, whereas if you break down a task you will invariably be using your time far more economically and will probably produce better quality work as a result.</p>
<p>Really think about how you currently spend your time. If you&rsquo;re not sure, keep a time log for a few days to find out. There are plenty of time management apps available to help you do this. By discovering what your week really looks like, you can determine what the first steps to improving it should be and truly make the most of your time.<br><br>Challenge anything that could be wasting time and effort, particularly habitual tasks, meetings and reports where responsibility is inherited or handed down from above. Don&rsquo;t be a slave to a daft process or system. Know your deadlines. When do you need to finish your tasks? Mark the deadlines out clearly in your calendar and organiser so you know when you need to finish them.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>4) Learn to say &ldquo;no&rdquo;</strong></h2>
<p>Saying "yes" is a positive thing and something we are all programmed to lean towards saying. However, turning something down or saying no to something that you know deep down you don&rsquo;t have time for can be a really liberating and indeed positive experience. Don&rsquo;t take on more than you can handle. For the distractions that come in when you&rsquo;re doing other things, give a firm no. Or defer it to a later period.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>5) Be punctual</strong></h2>
<p>When your target is to be on time, you&rsquo;ll either be on time or late. More often than not, you&rsquo;ll be late. However, if you try to be early, you&rsquo;ll most likely be on time. For appointments, strive to be early. For your deadlines, submit them earlier than required. Doing so will give you mental space, transmit a positive, confident image to co-workers, and cut down on unnecessary work-related stress.</p>

Follow these easy-to-follow steps to improve time management, boost your productivity, and enhance your work-life balance.

5 Ways to Manage your Time Better

<article class="rich-text-article">
<h2><strong>What is cell biology? What is fermentation?</strong></h2>
<p><strong>Cell biology</strong>&nbsp;is the study of cell structure and function which revolves around the concept that the cell is the fundamental unit of life.&nbsp;By understanding how cells work in healthy and diseased states, cell biologists working in animal, plant, and medical science develop new vaccines, more effective medicines, plants with improved qualities, and (through increased knowledge) a better understanding of how all living things live.</p>
<p>Biotechnology uses techniques and information from cell biology to genetically modify crops to produce alternative characteristics; to clone plants and animals; to produce and ensure high-quality food is available at lower costs; to produce purer medicines and in-time organs for the many people who need transplants. Cell biology encompasses all of this and can make an exciting career.</p>
<p><strong>Fermentation</strong>&nbsp;is the process of sugars being broken down by the enzymes of microorganisms when oxygen is absent. In other words, it's the chemical process by which a substance breaks down into a simpler substance. Microorganisms such as bacteria and yeast are commonly used in the fermentation process as they have unique sets of metabolic genes that break down different types of sugar metabolites.</p>
<p>Thanks to fermentation, food scientists are able to create products as diverse as beer, wine, bread, cultured milk and yoghurt, cider, kimchi, and sauerkraut.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>What are the key trends in cell biology and fermentation?</strong></h2>
<p>Because there are so many strains of molecular biology, it's difficult to pinpoint one key trending area in cell biology or fermentation, so here are a few areas that are reporting progress and findings.&nbsp;<br><br>In personalised medicine, the individual genetics and&nbsp;phenotypic characteristics of many diseases are being looked at to tailor to each patient a more effective and safer therapy. Cancer research has been at the forefront of these personalised therapeutics. Through the use of genotypic data mixed with other strategies, we are better able to understand the cause and treatment of human diseases.</p>
<p>RNA molecule research&nbsp;has also led us to better understand how genetic diversity works.&nbsp;New methods now allow analysis at the single-cell and single-molecule level and have provided us with a greater ability to understand the significance of further regulatory functions with greater precision than before.</p>
<p>Another key trend in cell biology is the&nbsp;use of artificial intelligence (AI) and big data, which help cell biologists to fully understand how the parts of a cell interact with each other.<br><br>While fluorescent microscopy is a great tool, it has its drawbacks. There are limits to the number of fluorescent tags that can be introduced into a cell, and side effects such as photo&shy;toxicity can hinder researchers&rsquo; ability to conduct live-cell imaging. This new use of AI is helping to create 3D live videos of a cell and how the various components work together.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>Which type of cell biology and fermentation roles do we recruit for?</strong></h2>
<p>We have a very strong foundation in cell biology recruitment and work with the very best&nbsp;<span id="docs-internal-guid-df424d69-7fff-0cfd-3b7a-265084dd3590">&mdash;&nbsp;</span>giving us a wide range of cell biologist jobs. Here are a few examples of roles we have recruited for recently:&nbsp;</p>
<ul>
<li>Upstream Scientist</li>
<li>Downstream Scientist</li>
<li>Fermentation Scientist</li>
<li>Research Scientist</li>
<li>Senior Research Scientist</li>
<li>Senior Scientist</li>
<li>Principal Scientist</li>
<li>Cell Culture Scientist</li>
<li>Head of Microbial Fermentation</li>
<li>Head of Mammalian Cell Culture</li>
<li>Team Leader Microbial Fermentation</li>
<li>Team leader Mammalian Cell Culture</li>
<li>Molecular Biologist</li>
<li>Protein Scientist</li>
<li>Protein Purification Scientist.</li>
</ul>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>The way we work</strong></h2>
<p>We work in a consultative way with both our clients and candidates. When you are looking for a new permanent job or new contract role within the cell biology sector, SRG, as market leaders, are the best-placed recruitment consultancy to help you find the right place for your next move.<br><br>Our team is specialised and fully understands the roles that they deal with. We really get to know the people we work with, whether our clients (their culture, their environment, their team) or candidates (motivations, career aspirations, the environment you want to work in). We never try to send people to companies that don&rsquo;t suit them, and when working with our client companies, nor do we bombard them with CVs to fill our own internal quota numbers.</p>
<p>Take a look at our roles to see where your next opportunity could be. Our consultants are talking to clients all the time and they can make approaches on your behalf so please get in touch to see how we can help you.<br><br>Alternatively, if you are looking for talent to enhance or grow your team, call us to talk about who we are currently working with and how we can help: 0161 868 2200.</p>
</article>
<article class="rich-text-article">
<p><span style="color: #ac145a;"><a style="color: #ac145a;" href="../../../../../../jobs">Explore Cell Biologist Roles here.</a></span></p>
</article>

We work with top cell biology and fermentation professionals across many niche disciplines within the sector, whether they are our clients, candidates looking to start their careers, or established professionals looking for their next challenge. Discover key trends, how we work and take a look at the roles available in this fascinating area. Explore what it means to work in cell biology and fermentation.

STEM Professions: Jobs as a Cell Biologist

<p>Congratulations! You&rsquo;ve pushed through the daunting experience of interviews and waiting times, possible rejections, and a whole heap of emotions. Finding a new job can be overwhelming for many. Fear of change, and new beginnings, taking risks, and leaving secure positions can all contribute to this; however, a deep breath and a large leap of faith can land you in a new place more suited and beneficial for you.</p>
<p>When your decision to leave is met with a counteroffer from your current employer, leaving can become even tougher. Doubt surface around your decision, and your subconscious may force you to question your loyalty, or lack of, leaving you racked with guilt over putting yourself and your career progression first.</p>
<p>In this article, we will guide you on how to handle a counteroffer from a current employer.</p>
<p>Read on to discover:&nbsp;</p>
<ul>
<li>What is a counteroffer?</li>
<li>The potential risks of settling</li>
<li>How to handle a counteroffer</li>
</ul>
<h2>What is a counteroffer?</h2>
<p>A counteroffer, in recruitment circumstances, is typically given in response to an existing offer, already provided to the employee by their prospective employer. It is the employer&rsquo;s attempt to retain the employee and persuade them into retracting their resignation. This usually occurs once the employee has handed in their notice. As a counteroffer is given with the intent to make the employee reconsider their resignation, it tends to offer attractive advantages such as a pay raise or promotion.</p>
<p>In current times<strong>&nbsp;employee retention has never been so prominently important to an employer</strong>, which is why they may try a counteroffer. Attracting and retaining an employee is key to building and maintaining a successful business, as satisfied employees make for a positive company culture. This is not to say all employees will remain in the same role at the same company for their full career. As people progress, their careers tend to follow, meaning employees may reach a point where they feel it is time to move on.</p>
<h2>The potential risks of settling</h2>
<p>When a counteroffer is made, it&rsquo;s always important to be hyper-aware of the truth behind why the employer is pleading with you to stay. Employers are never keen to lose hard-working employees, however, this doesn&rsquo;t mean the counteroffer at hand has come from a heartfelt place.</p>
<p><strong>On average it can cost a business up to &pound;3,000 when hiring a new staff member via recruitment consultancy</strong>.&nbsp;Employers are vastly aware of the&nbsp;<strong>costs</strong>&nbsp;involved when welcoming a replacement to the business, the money it draws from the company pockets to hire and train can become rather costly, a cost they could avoid by convincing you to stay.</p>
<p>Alongside that your employer will understand time will be needed to train the new employee. Training a new employee often takes the time of other members of the team too, adding extra tasks onto their probably busy schedules, something no knowing employer would do unless urgently necessary.</p>
<p>It is crucial to weigh up the real reasons your employer may be bargaining with you to reconsider, as in most cases it may be more beneficial for you in the long term to accept the job offer for your new role and decline the counteroffer. In turn, a short-term increase in salary will not ensure future career progression.</p>
<p>Remember, if your main reason for leaving is an unhealthy work environment, negative work culture, or feeling undervalued by management,&nbsp;<strong>it is doubtful a higher salary or role with additional responsibilities will elicit a change in the way you feel</strong>, and it is probably time to move on.</p>
<h2>Should I accept a counteroffer from my current employer?</h2>
<p>Take your time! Before you reach a decision on whether to accept or decline your counteroffer, it is important that you take your time to consider the pros and cons of staying in your current employment. That said, it is equally important to make your prospective employer aware of your decision time. Here are some points to reflect on when making your decision:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Money:</strong>&nbsp;Was the job search due to your current salary? Is it predominantly the wage packet that is pushing you into a new employer?</li>
<li><strong>Recognition:</strong>&nbsp;Do you feel your hard work isn&rsquo;t being recognised in your current role? Do you feel unappreciated or undervalued?</li>
<li><strong>Work-life balance:</strong>&nbsp;Are you searching for a more rewarding work-life balance? Would accepting the counteroffer equate to that?</li>
<li><strong>Trust and loyalty:</strong>&nbsp;Will the environment of the workplace change should you choose to stay as your employer is aware you were considering leaving? Could this result in you being excluded from future promotions?</li>
</ul>
<p>Once evaluated, speaking to your current employer, and discussing the details of their counteroffer is important, as it will help you understand why they want to keep you, and what it means for you going forward.</p>
<p>Ask for time to deliberate, and politely thank them for both the offer and their patience. It&rsquo;s important to keep those bridges uninflamed. This time can be used for you to compare and contrast the counteroffer with your new job offer, considering company values, company vision, work-life balance offerings, and career development. In conjunction with this, revisit your primary reasons for leaving your current employer. Are those reasons realistically going to be resolved if you were to accept the counteroffer?</p>
<p>Most importantly, trust your gut! You know the aspects you rank most valuable more than anybody else. When weighing everything up, what came out on top for you? What did you regard as crucial? Is that going to be achieved by settling? If there is any doubt left about which offer to accept once you have evaluated all the pros and cons, follow your intuition. What feels right for YOU?</p>
<p>As soon as you reach a decision, let your current employer know straight away. This shows respect and provides you with the opportunity to thank them for the counteroffer, and all the help/ opportunities (if applicable) you were provided with whilst under their employment. You can then confirm directly to them, that you will be declining the offer.</p>
<p>You are then able to let your new employer know as soon as possible of your acceptance!</p>

When your decision to leave is met with a counteroffer from your current employer, leaving can become even tougher. Learn how to handle a counteroffer from a current employer with Chris Beckenham, Chemicals Team Lead.

How to Handle a Counteroffer from your Current Employer

<article class="rich-text-article">
<h2><strong>What is maintenance engineering?</strong></h2>
<p>Maintenance Engineering is the discipline and profession of applying engineering concepts for the optimisation of equipment, procedures, and departmental budgets to achieve better maintainability, reliability, and availability of equipment. SRG focuses on the areas of food science, pharma manufacturing, medical devices, and chemical production.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>What are the key trends in maintenance engineering?</strong></h2>
<p>According to Engineering UK&rsquo;s report, engineering generated 23% of the UK&rsquo;s total turnover. Some emerging technological advances have changed the shape of the economy towards an hourglass shape, resulting in the expansion of knowledge-intensive services.&nbsp;<br><br>The digital disruption of the product engineering and manufacturing process will have the biggest impact on the sector. Most engineers will see both concepts of digital twin and digital thread in action daily as companies look for ways to improve efficiency and serviceability. Having a complete digital record of a product throughout its lifecycle will help with product design.<br><br>Skill sets of maintenance engineers will, as a consequence, evolve to adapt to this digitalisation trend. Augmented reality (AR) now allows engineers to pull products from the screen into the real world, to scale, and to form a relationship with their intended environment. The technology may also be used for manufacturing work instructions, service procedures, product design and development, and sales and marketing.&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>Which maintenance engineering roles does SRG recruit for?</strong></h2>
<p>We have a very strong foundation in engineering recruitment across the scientific, chemical, medical device, food and drink, and biotech industries. We work with the very best, giving us a wide range of engineering jobs, including:</p>
<ul>
<li>Assistant Production Manager</li>
<li>Automation Engineer</li>
<li>Design Engineer</li>
<li>Chemical Process Engineer</li>
<li>Maintenance Engineer</li>
</ul>
<p>We also have many roles in FMCG, including Engineering Project Manager as well as FMCG Manufacturing jobs. The list covers electrical and mechanical engineering as well as technical and design.</p>
<h4><span style="color: #ac145a;"><a style="color: #ac145a;" href="../../../../../../jobs">Apply for the latest maintenance engineering jobs.</a></span></h4>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>The way we work</strong></h2>
<p>We work in a consultative way with both our clients and candidates. When you are looking for a new permanent job or new contract role within the engineering sector, SRG, as market leaders, are the best-placed recruitment consultancy to help you find the right place for your next move.<br><br>Our specialised engineering team fully understands the roles in engineering that they deal with. We really get to know the people we work with, whether clients (their culture, their environment, their team) or candidates (motivations, career aspirations, the environment you want to work in). We never try to send people to companies that don&rsquo;t suit them, and when working with our client companies, nor do we bombard them with CVs to fill our own internal quota numbers.<br><br>Take a look at our maintenance engineering jobs to see where your next opportunity could be. Our consultants are talking to clients all the time and can make approaches on your behalf, so please get in touch to see how we can help you.</p>
<p>Alternatively, if you are looking for engineering talent to enhance or grow your team,&nbsp;<span style="color: #ac145a;"><strong><a style="color: #ac145a;" href="../../../../../../contact-us">contact us</a></strong></span> to find out who we are currently working with and how we can help.</p>
</article>

Maintenance engineers are at the forefront of engineering -- ensuring the continuous and smooth running of equipment and machinery. Explore what it means to work in this expanding field.

STEM Professions: Jobs in Maintenance Engineering

<h3>An innovative and multidisciplinary branch of engineering, chemical engineering spans a wide variety of industries, processes and job roles. Many of the products that are used in everyday life &ndash; from food additives to laundry detergent &ndash; are designed and developed by chemical engineers.</h3>
<p>Given its importance to the functioning of society, chemical engineering is one of the most highly sought-after careers in the life sciences.&nbsp;<br><br>Whether you&rsquo;re looking for a process engineer role in the petroleum sector or an energy engineer role at a leading multinational, chemical engineering offers an array of exciting professions with plenty of scope for continuing professional development and travel.<br><br>But how do you start a career as a chemical engineer? To help you in your job search, we&rsquo;ve put together this chemical engineer job profile exploring what it&rsquo;s like to work in this challenging industry.<br><br><br></p>
<h2><strong>What does a chemical engineer do?</strong></h2>
<p>Chemical engineers draw on their expertise in various disciplines to effectively develop and transform raw materials into a diverse range of useful products (for example, making plastics from oil). They develop and design manufacturing processes and equipment, plan and test production methods, and direct facility operations. The role focuses on many aspects of plant design and operation, including safety and risk assessments, product development, process design and analysis, modelling, control engineering, chemical reaction engineering, nuclear engineering, biological engineering, construction specifications, and operating instructions. It can range from working with nanotechnology in the laboratory to directing the large-scale industrial processes that convert raw materials into everyday products.<br><br><br></p>
<h3><strong>Work environment</strong></h3>
<p>The bulk of a chemical engineer&rsquo;s time is spent in an office or laboratory environment. However, engineers will also monitor or direct operations at industrial plants, refineries, and other large-scale manufacturing locations, as well as solving onsite problems. Most chemical engineers work on a full-time, 9-to-5 schedule.</p>
<h3><strong>Responsibilities</strong></h3>
<p>Duties vary depending on the industry, employer or location. On a day-to-day basis, chemical engineers design processes and equipment for manufacturing, plan and test production methods, and establish rigorous health and safety procedures for people working with dangerous substances. Other responsibilities include:</p>
<ul>
<li><span id="docs-internal-guid-a250014b-7fff-42d5-2c63-068a7dadf2f1"><span id="docs-internal-guid-b1fced1d-7fff-d018-08e8-5ead303bf5e7">Conducting research to develop pioneering new manufacturing processes and products<br></span></span></li>
<li><span id="docs-internal-guid-a250014b-7fff-42d5-2c63-068a7dadf2f1"><span id="docs-internal-guid-b1fced1d-7fff-d018-08e8-5ead303bf5e7"></span></span><span id="docs-internal-guid-a250014b-7fff-42d5-2c63-068a7dadf2f1"><span id="docs-internal-guid-b1fced1d-7fff-d018-08e8-5ead303bf5e7">Liaising with process chemists and control engineers to ensure process plants run efficiently and provide maximum output levels</span></span></li>
<li><span id="docs-internal-guid-a250014b-7fff-42d5-2c63-068a7dadf2f1"><span id="docs-internal-guid-b1fced1d-7fff-d018-08e8-5ead303bf5e7">Troubleshooting problems in existing manufacturing processes and rectifying the issues</span></span></li>
<li><span id="docs-internal-guid-a250014b-7fff-42d5-2c63-068a7dadf2f1"><span id="docs-internal-guid-b1fced1d-7fff-d018-08e8-5ead303bf5e7">Overseeing the design, installation and commissioning of new production plants</span></span></li>
<li><span id="docs-internal-guid-a250014b-7fff-42d5-2c63-068a7dadf2f1"><span id="docs-internal-guid-b1fced1d-7fff-d018-08e8-5ead303bf5e7">Ensuring safe working conditions and compliance with health and safety regulations</span></span></li>
<li><span id="docs-internal-guid-a250014b-7fff-42d5-2c63-068a7dadf2f1"><span id="docs-internal-guid-b1fced1d-7fff-d018-08e8-5ead303bf5e7">Estimating production costs for management</span></span></li>
</ul>
<p>Broadly speaking, engineers in the chemical sector work in one of four areas: design, research and development (R&amp;D), operations or commissioning.&nbsp;<br><br><br></p>
<h2><strong>Types of chemical engineering jobs</strong></h2>
<p>Chemical engineers work in a range of roles in a range of manufacturing industries &mdash; from upstream oil and gas operations to winemaking. Other industries include food and drink, fibres and polymers, plastic and metals, and toiletries.<br><br><strong>The following job titles are related to chemical engineering:</strong><br><br></p>
<ul>
<li><span id="docs-internal-guid-a250014b-7fff-42d5-2c63-068a7dadf2f1"><span id="docs-internal-guid-b1fced1d-7fff-d018-08e8-5ead303bf5e7">Chemical Engineer</span></span></li>
<li><span id="docs-internal-guid-a250014b-7fff-42d5-2c63-068a7dadf2f1"><span id="docs-internal-guid-b1fced1d-7fff-d018-08e8-5ead303bf5e7">Manufacturing Engineer</span></span></li>
<li><span id="docs-internal-guid-a250014b-7fff-42d5-2c63-068a7dadf2f1"><span id="docs-internal-guid-b1fced1d-7fff-d018-08e8-5ead303bf5e7">Petroleum Engineer</span></span></li>
<li><span id="docs-internal-guid-a250014b-7fff-42d5-2c63-068a7dadf2f1"><span id="docs-internal-guid-b1fced1d-7fff-d018-08e8-5ead303bf5e7">Plastics Engineer</span></span></li>
<li><span id="docs-internal-guid-a250014b-7fff-42d5-2c63-068a7dadf2f1"><span id="docs-internal-guid-b1fced1d-7fff-d018-08e8-5ead303bf5e7">Process Engineer</span></span></li>
<li>Safety Engineer</li>
</ul>
<h4><strong><a href="../../../../../../jobs">Browse the latest chemical engineering jobs with SRG.</a><br><br></strong></h4>
<h2><strong>Is chemical engineering a good career?</strong></h2>
<p>Despite a lack of understanding from the general public about what the profession entails, chemical engineering is a fantastic career choice for anyone with a strong grounding in maths and science.<br><br>As a chemical engineer, you&rsquo;ll get to work alongside colleagues from different social and technical backgrounds from all across the globe. Working in a highly collaborative environment, you will be required to solve a spate of technical challenges as part of a close-knit team.<br><br>There&rsquo;s also plenty of opportunity for research and development (R&amp;D). Most graduates or entry-level chemical engineers work under the supervision of more experienced senior chemical engineers. Larger companies may also offer graduate programmes and formal training to new engineers.<br><br>Aside from being open to travel, you&rsquo;ll also have to keep a finger on the pulse of the latest trends in the sector. Given that natural resources are finite, a global drive away from fossil fuels towards renewable energy is likely to shake up the industry.<br><br><br></p>
<h2><strong>Are chemical engineer jobs in high demand?</strong></h2>
<p>Jobs in chemical engineering largely depend on the demand for the products of various manufacturing industries. According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, however, global employment for chemical engineers is expected to grow 6% in the next decade. This means chemical engineer jobs are readily available in a wide range of locations.<br><br><br></p>
<h2><strong>What to expect from a chemical engineering salary</strong></h2>
<p>The average chemical engineer salary in the UK is around &pound;32,000. According to the Institution of Chemical Engineers, the median starting salary for a chemical engineer is around &pound;28,600. Salaries can rise to between &pound;30,000 and &pound;60,000 with experience, though this depends on the level of expertise and the industry that you work in. The median salary for chartered chemical engineers is around &pound;78,500.<br><br><br></p>
<h2><strong>Which companies hire chemical engineers?</strong></h2>
<p><strong>Major employers of chemical engineers include:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>BASF</li>
<li>BP</li>
<li>Bristol-Myers Squibb</li>
<li>ExxonMobil</li>
<li>Goodyear</li>
<li>Unilever<br><br></li>
</ul>
<h2><strong>How to become a chemical engineer</strong></h2>
<p>A career in chemical engineering is a big commitment, but it&rsquo;s also extremely rewarding. Here are the things you&rsquo;ll need to become a chemical engineer.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h3><strong>Qualifications</strong></h3>
<p>As a minimum requirement for entry-level positions, you&rsquo;ll need a graduate (BEng) or postgraduate MEng) degree in chemical engineering or a related field. Some of the relevant degree courses that universities offer include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Biochemistry</li>
<li>Chemical Engineering</li>
<li>Chemistry</li>
<li>Physics</li>
<li>Mathematics</li>
<li>Software Engineering</li>
</ul>
<p>Gaining a PhD in any of these fields can also make you a more attractive proposition for employers.<br><br>Chemical engineering is an exceptionally broad field, so students studying a related subject should think about which specialism (e.g. petroleum exploration or material and polymers) they wish to pursue.&nbsp;<br><br>Finally, it&rsquo;s also worth gaining as much laboratory experience as possible. Chemical engineering internships are one such way to boost your skills and employability. Another is industrial placement, which is a form of work experience intended to supplement your degree with professional development.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h3><strong>Skills and experience</strong></h3>
<p>As a graduate, career prospects for chemical engineering are high - especially given the breadth of industries chemical engineers operate across.<br><br><strong>81% of chemical engineering graduates&nbsp;</strong>attain a high-skilled job post graduation in roles including:&nbsp;</p>
<ul>
<li>Chemical Engineer</li>
<li>Design Engineer</li>
<li>Petroleum Engineer</li>
<li>Plastics Engineer</li>
<li>Process Engineer</li>
<li>Process Safety Engineer</li>
<li>Manufacturing Engineer</li>
<li>Continuous Improvement Engineer</li>
<li>Nuclear Engineer</li>
<li>Safety Engineer</li>
</ul>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>For mid-to-senior-level positions, academic qualifications alone will not be enough. When applying for chemical engineering roles, it&rsquo;s important to demonstrate:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li><span id="docs-internal-guid-a250014b-7fff-42d5-2c63-068a7dadf2f1"><span id="docs-internal-guid-b1fced1d-7fff-d018-08e8-5ead303bf5e7">An understanding of the principles of engineering and mathematics</span></span></li>
<li><span id="docs-internal-guid-a250014b-7fff-42d5-2c63-068a7dadf2f1"><span id="docs-internal-guid-b1fced1d-7fff-d018-08e8-5ead303bf5e7">Analytical and problem-solving skills</span></span></li>
<li><span id="docs-internal-guid-a250014b-7fff-42d5-2c63-068a7dadf2f1"><span id="docs-internal-guid-b1fced1d-7fff-d018-08e8-5ead303bf5e7">Critical thinking</span></span></li>
<li><span id="docs-internal-guid-a250014b-7fff-42d5-2c63-068a7dadf2f1"><span id="docs-internal-guid-b1fced1d-7fff-d018-08e8-5ead303bf5e7">Meticulous attention to detail</span></span></li>
<li>Industry knowledge</li>
<li><span id="docs-internal-guid-a250014b-7fff-42d5-2c63-068a7dadf2f1"><span id="docs-internal-guid-b1fced1d-7fff-d018-08e8-5ead303bf5e7">Commercial and business awareness</span></span></li>
</ul>
<p>Of course, it&rsquo;s also worth bearing in mind that requirements will vary from company to company.</p>
<h3><strong>Find out more about what you can do with a chemical engineering degree here &gt;</strong></h3>
<h2><strong>Chartered membership</strong></h2>
<p>Though not mandatory, gaining chartered accreditation can enhance chemical engineering prospects.<br><br>The&nbsp;<a href="https://www.icheme.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE)</a>, which is licensed by the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.engc.org.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Engineering Council</a>, is the UK&rsquo;s leading professional qualifying body for chemical, biochemical and process engineers.<br><br>To become eligible for&nbsp;<a href="https://www.icheme.org/membership/membership-grades/chartered-member/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Chartered Member (MIChemE) status</a>&nbsp;with IChemE, you&rsquo;ll need to demonstrate an advanced knowledge of chemical engineering and its applications. If your degree is fully accredited by IChemE, you already meet the required level.&nbsp;<br><br>Candidates also need to demonstrate professional experience and complete a Competence and Commitment (C&amp;C) report.</p>

Chemical engineering applies the principles of biology, chemistry, physics and maths to solve problems related to the large-scale production of chemicals, fuel, drugs, food and a range of other vital products.

STEM Professions: Jobs in Chemical Engineering

<h3>Though it sounds niche, microbiology is actually one of the most important sub-sectors of biology. By analysing microorganisms up close, microbiologists play a crucial role in combating disease, creating chemical products for agriculture, and even helping to keep the planet healthy.</h3>
<p>Whether you&rsquo;re seeking work as a lead microbiologist with a pharmaceutical giant or want to work in infection control with the NHS, microbiology is a rewarding career with plenty of opportunities for professional growth.</p>
<p>But what is microbiology used for? To help your job search, we&rsquo;ve put together this quick guide to microbiology jobs &mdash; and what it&rsquo;s like to develop a career as a microbiologist.<br><br><br></p>
<h2><strong>What is microbiology?</strong></h2>
<p>Microbiology is a branch of biological science that studies microorganisms (also known as microbes), which are microscopic unicellular or cell-cluster organisms and infectious agents.&nbsp;<br><br>The different types of microbes studied by microbiologists include bacteria, archaea, viruses, eukaryotes, fungi, prions, protozoa and algae. These microbes can differ dramatically in terms of size and characteristics.</p>
<p>Though microbes often carry negative connotations due to the association of certain microbes with diseases, many other microbes carry several benefits. For example, microbes underpin processes such as industrial fermentation (which is used to make useful products such as alcohol, vinegar and dairy products) and antibiotic production. They also act as molecular vehicles to transfer DNA to complex organisms such as plants and animals.</p>
<p>Microbiology is a broad discipline, and microbiologists study microbes at the level of proteins and genes (molecular biology), at the cellular level (cell biology and physiology), and at the community level (public health, ecology and epidemiology). Branches of microbiology include virology, parasitology, mycology, microbial genetics and bacteriology.</p>
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td><strong><span id="docs-internal-guid-584ccbdf-7fff-e6a8-f78c-0020975f9ef6"></span></strong>
<h4 dir="ltr"><strong>Did you know?</strong></h4>
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>The so-called &ldquo;father of microbiology&rdquo; was Antonie van Leeuwenhoek, a largely self-taught Dutch scientist who lived in the 17th century. He used single-lens microscopes to make the first observations of bacteria and protozoa, and his work with animals helped disprove the theory of spontaneous generation.</td>
</tr>
</tbody>
</table>
<h2><strong><br>The importance of microbiology</strong></h2>
<p>Microbes are vitally important to all life on Earth. As versatile organisms, they play a major role in various biochemical processes such as biodegradation, biodeterioration, climate change, food spoilage, epidemiology and biotechnology.&nbsp;<br><br>By applying microbes in a range of controlled settings, microbiologists can harness their power for beneficial use in areas as diverse as healthcare, food production and agriculture.&nbsp;<br><br>In medicine alone, microbiologists have contributed to some of history's most important scientific breakthroughs. Edward Jenner invented the world&rsquo;s first smallpox vaccine. Robert Koch identified the causes of cholera, tuberculosis and anthrax. Alexander Fleming discovered penicillin. And, more recently, Barry Marshall identified the link between Helicobacter pylori infection and stomach ulcers. Microbiologists are pushing the envelope of science and helping to save lives in the process.<br><br>The&nbsp;<span style="color: #ac145a;"><a style="color: #ac145a;" href="https://microbiologysociety.org/why-microbiology-matters/what-is-microbiology.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Microbiology Society</a>&nbsp;</span>sum up the importance of the field:</p>
<p><em>&ldquo;Microbiology research has been and continues to be, central to meeting many of the current global aspirations and challenges, such as maintaining food, water and energy security for a healthy population on a habitable earth. Microbiology research will also help to answer big questions such as 'how diverse is life on Earth?', and 'does life exist elsewhere in the Universe'?&rdquo;</em></p>
<p>The essential ongoing work of microbiologists includes making agriculture more sustainable, cleaning up pollution, manufacturing biofuels, and processing food and drink.&nbsp;<br><br>With the threat of antibiotic-resistant bacteria and global pandemics on the rise, microbiologists are also helping to produce the vital life-saving drugs that many people around the world rely on for survival.<br><br></p>
<h2><strong>What do microbiologists do?</strong></h2>
<p>Microbiologists aim to solve a range of problems affecting our health, the environment, climate and food and agriculture. Depending on the employer, this can include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Studying the prevention, diagnosis and control of infections and specific diseases</li>
<li>Ensuring food and drink is safe to consume</li>
<li>Understanding the role that microbes play in climate change</li>
<li>Developing green technologies</li>
</ul>
<h3><strong><br>Work environment</strong></h3>
<p>Microbiologists typically spend most of their time in a hospital, office or laboratory environment, where they conduct specific experiments and analyse the results. Most microbiologists work on a full-time, 9-to-5 schedule.<br><br></p>
<h3><strong>Responsibilities</strong></h3>
<ul>
<li>Preparing samples and tracking microbe development in a range of controlled environments</li>
<li>Planning and carrying out trials</li>
<li>Collecting, analysing and interpreting key data</li>
<li>Writing research papers, reports and reviews</li>
<li>Developing new therapeutic products such as drugs and vaccines</li>
<li>Managing laboratories and ensuring high health and safety standards</li>
</ul>
<p>Day-to-day responsibilities can vary depending on the industry, employer or location.</p>
<h3><strong><br>Industries and employers</strong></h3>
<p>Microbiologists work in a number of sectors, from healthcare, pharmaceuticals and biotechnology to government, education and the environment. Key employers of microbiologists in the UK include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Hospitals</li>
<li>Environmental organisations</li>
<li>Government agencies</li>
<li>The NHS</li>
<li>The pharmaceutical and water industries</li>
<li>Research institutions</li>
<li>Universities</li>
<li>Forensic science laboratories</li>
</ul>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<div>
<h2><strong>What does a microbiologist do in a hospital?</strong></h2>
Microbiologists based in a hospital environment support and oversee the diagnosis, prevention and treatment of the spread of infection. Through laboratory testing, they identify appropriate treatment for particular infectious diseases and monitor patients throughout their treatment.&nbsp;<br><br>Hospital microbiologists also play a key advisory role. Firstly, they advise patients on medication adherence and produce treatment guidelines to make sure that antibiotics are prescribed and used appropriately. This helps to reduce the risk of antimicrobial resistance emerging and spreading in a hospital.&nbsp;<br><br>Secondly, they advise on which samples &mdash; such as a swab, urine sample or blood test &mdash; should be collected to diagnose an infection. They then collaborate closely with scientists in the laboratory to identify the pathogens causing the infection. Once the pathogens have been identified, microbiologists provide guidance for treatment.<br><br>Finally, medical microbiologists promote measures to prevent and control the spread of diseases &mdash; both inside and outside the hospital.<br><br></div>
<h2><strong>Is microbiology a good career?</strong></h2>
<div>With the opportunity to make a real difference to society, as well as plenty of opportunities for continued professional development and travel both in the UK and abroad, microbiology is a good career choice.<br><br>
<div>
<h2><strong>What does a microbiologist earn?</strong></h2>
The national average microbiologist salary in the UK is around &pound;35,000. Starting salaries for entry-level microbiologist jobs are usually in the range of &pound;20,000 to &pound;30,000, depending on factors such as industry, employer and location. Salaries can rise to &pound;60,000 with experience. Again, this depends on the level of expertise and the industry that you work in.<br><br>
<h2><strong>What can I do with a microbiology degree?</strong></h2>
<p>Microbiology study is a lucrative route into science. A Microbiology degree can open up a number of career paths. Jobs related to a microbiology degree include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Biomedical Scientist</li>
<li>Biotechnologist</li>
<li>Clinical Research Associate</li>
<li>Food Technologist</li>
<li>Medicinal Chemist</li>
<li>Microbiologist</li>
<li>Pharmacologist</li>
<li>Research Scientist</li>
<li>Technical Brewer</li>
<li>Water Quality Scientist</li>
</ul>
<h2><strong><br>How to become a microbiologist</strong></h2>
</div>
<h3><strong>Qualifications</strong></h3>
<div>To start out in the field, you&rsquo;ll need an undergraduate or postgraduate degree in microbiology or a related discipline from a medical school.<br><br>As with most life-science degrees, gaining a PhD or postdoctoral qualification will improve your chances of landing a job in academia or research. In other industries, a PhD isn&rsquo;t mandatory but many employers look for supplementary experience of working with specialised techniques. The&nbsp;<span style="color: #ac145a;"><a style="color: #ac145a;" href="https://microbiologysociety.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Microbiology Society</a>&nbsp;</span>and the<span style="color: #ac145a;">&nbsp;<a style="color: #ac145a;" href="https://sfam.org.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Society for Applied Microbiology</a>&nbsp;</span>offer grants to support students seeking work experience.<br><br>On top of a degree, employers look for qualifications such as the&nbsp;<span style="color: #ac145a;"><a style="color: #ac145a;" href="https://www.foundationprogramme.nhs.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">UK Foundation Training Programme</a></span>&nbsp;or equivalent, Core Medical Training (CMT) and the Acute Care Common Stem (ACCS) pathway. It&rsquo;s also possible to receive training in specialist areas such as infections and tropical medicine.<br><br>
<h3><strong>Skills and experience</strong></h3>
<p>Academic achievement alone will not be enough for most mid-to-senior-level microbiologist positions. Requirements vary from depending on the setting, but most employers look for skills such as:</p>
</div>
<ul>
<li>IT and numeracy skills</li>
<li>Analytical and problem-solving skills</li>
<li>Patience</li>
<li>Teamwork</li>
<li>Meticulous attention to detail</li>
<li>Independence</li>
</ul>
<h4><strong>TIP: To enhance your employability, the best advice is to diversify your skill set, move beyond the laboratory, keep up to date with the latest trends, and learn as much about the field as possible.<br><br><span style="color: #ac145a;"><a style="color: #ac145a;" href="../../../../../../jobs">Apply for microbiologist jobs</a></span><br></strong></h4>
</div>

Microbiology is the study of microorganisms: living organisms that are too small to be observed by the naked eye. The discipline focuses on the structure, function, and classification of these organisms and looks for ways to exploit and control their activities.

STEM Professions: Jobs in Microbiology

<p>Regulatory affairs is vital to the proper functioning of societies and economies. Robust regulation protects the rights, safety and health of citizens and ensures the safe and effective delivery of public goods and services. Without it, companies could potentially exploit the welfare of vulnerable workers and consumers.<br><br>There&rsquo;s never been a better time to work in the field. Thanks to globalisation and the increasing demand for safe food and medicines, regulatory affairs jobs are in high demand. And with plenty of opportunities for travel, professional development and international employment, regulatory is a great career choice for anyone with a background in science.<br><br>But what does a career in regulatory affairs look like? To help your job search, we&rsquo;ve put together this regulatory job profile.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>What is regulatory affairs?</strong></h2>
<p>Regulatory affairs is a term used to describe an array of roles, and skills associated with aligning government (the regulators), industry (the regulated), and consumer interests to ensure that only safe and effective products make it to market, and that poor products already on the market are prevented from being sold.</p>
<p>Given the cruciality of the discipline, regulatory affairs departments, and teams are found across many industries &ndash; from pharmaceutical regulatory affairs, all the way through to regulatory affairs in FMCG.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>What are regulatory bodies?</strong></h2>
<p>In simple terms, a regulatory body (also known as a regulatory agency or regulatory authority) is a public or government agency created to oversee specific industries and practices.<br><br>Regulatory bodies protect the public by providing and enforcing health and safety standards for organisations operating in . They differ to professional organisations because they are created on the basis of a legal mandate or legislation and have statutory authority to perform their functions. Regulatory bodies are one of the main regulatory affairs employers.&nbsp;<br><br><br></p>
<h2><strong>What are examples of regulatory agencies?</strong></h2>
<p>Examples of regulatory bodies related to science include:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>The Food and Drug Administration (FDA)</strong>&nbsp;&mdash; a US government body responsible for protecting public health by ensuring the safety, efficacy, and security of drugs</li>
<li><strong>The European Medicines Agency (EMA)</strong>&nbsp;&mdash; a European Union (EU) agency responsible for evaluating and supervising healthcare products</li>
<li><strong>The Medicines and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA)</strong>&nbsp;&mdash; an executive agency of the UK government&rsquo;s Department of Health and Social Care who work with the British pharmaceutical industry, and medical devices industry to ensure both medicines and medical devices work and meet safety standards</li>
<li><strong>The Food Standards Agency&nbsp;</strong>&mdash; a non-ministerial government department responsible for protecting the public health in relation to food in England, Wales and Northern Ireland</li>
<li><strong>The Care Quality Commission (CQC)</strong>&nbsp;&mdash; an executive non-departmental public body of the UK government&rsquo;s Department of Health and Social Care that regulates and inspects health and social care services in England</li>
<li><strong>The Engineering Council&nbsp;</strong>&mdash; the UK&rsquo;s regulatory body for the engineering profession</li>
</ul>
<h2><strong><br>Types of regulatory jobs</strong></h2>
<p>Common job titles related to the regulatory affairs sector include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Quality Assurance Consultant</li>
<li>Regulatory Affairs Officer</li>
<li>Regulatory Aff airs Specialist</li>
<li>Regulatory Analyst</li>
<li>Regulatory Associate</li>
<li>Regulatory Consultant</li>
<li>Regulatory strategist</li>
</ul>
<h2><strong><br>What does a regulatory affairs specialist do?</strong></h2>
<p>Regulatory affairs specialists assist in obtaining and maintaining government approval of products from regulated industries such as pharmaceuticals, medical devices, energy and banking.<br><br>Acting as a link between companies and regulatory bodies, they ensure that companies in these sectors adhere to appropriate licensing, marketing and legal compliance standards.</p>
<p><br><strong>Work environment</strong></p>
<p>Process engineers spend the bulk of their time in an office environment, working on a full-time, 9-to-5 basis.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h3><strong>Responsibilities</strong></h3>
<p>The duties and responsibilities of regulatory affairs specialists vary from company to company, and have expanded in recent years due to the globalisation of markets and constantly evolving regulations. Typical responsibilities of someone working in a regulatory affairs department include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Study scientific and legal documents pertaining to specific regulatory requirements</li>
<li>Collect, organise, evaluate and interpret information from a number of sources</li>
<li>Ensure compliance with regulations set by regulatory bodies such as MHRA</li>
<li>Keep up to date with the latest regulatory legislation</li>
<li>Plan and oversee product trials and regulatory inspections</li>
<li>Offer regulatory advice to companies and scientists</li>
</ul>
<h2><strong><br>Typical employers of regulatory affairs specialists</strong></h2>
<ul>
<li>Chemical manufacturers</li>
<li>Medical device manufacturers</li>
<li>Pesticides manufacturers</li>
<li>Pharmaceuticals manufacturers</li>
<li>Regulatory bodies such as MHRA</li>
<li>Research organisations</li>
</ul>
<h2><strong><br>What to expect from a regulatory affairs salary</strong></h2>
<p>According to Payscale data, the average salary for a regulatory affairs specialist in the UK is &pound;32,744. Most entry-level regulatory jobs in clinical trials and research range from around &pound;30,000 to &pound;40,000. Salaries for specialists or experienced regulatory affairs professionals typically range from &pound;40,000 to &pound;50,000, though it&rsquo;s possible to earn upwards of &pound;60,000 in certain roles.<br><br>Regulatory affairs salaries are highly competitive and depend on a number of variables, including job title, certification, level of experience, employer and location.<br><br></p>
<h2><strong>How do you become a regulatory affairs specialist?</strong></h2>
<h3><strong>Qualifications</strong></h3>
<p>The minimum requirement for entry-level regulatory positions is usually a graduate degree. People working in regulatory affairs come from a wide range of academic backgrounds, including public health, biology, clinical science, law, engineering, business, economics, and even some arts degrees.<br><br>Given that regulatory affairs is such a broad area, standing out from other candidates can help increase your employability. Gaining an advanced degree or PhD in a relevant field can also make you a more attractive proposition for employers &mdash; particularly if it relates to the core specialism or sector of the employer.<br><br>In a competitive job market, it&rsquo;s also important to get as much experience as possible. Finding a regulatory affairs internship to supplement your studies is the most direct way to achieve this.</p>
<h3><strong><br>Skills and experience</strong></h3>
<p>As with most jobs in science, academic qualifications alone will not be enough if you are looking for a mid-to-senior-level role. Of course, requirements vary from business to business, but core regulatory affairs skills that can be applied across the board include:</p>
<ul>
<li>IT and numeracy skills</li>
<li>Analytical and problem-solving skills</li>
<li>Critical thinking</li>
<li>Meticulous attention to detail</li>
<li>Industry knowledge</li>
<li>Commercial and business awareness</li>
</ul>
<p>The road into regulation is not as rigid as other occupations. For example, if you&rsquo;re a project manager wanting to work in regulatory affairs, as long as you are armed with these transferable skills, an appropriate degree and experience in a relevant field, there&rsquo;s a good chance of finding employment.<br><br>Indeed, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.raps.org/getattachment/Careers/Scope-of-Practice-Survey/2016-Scope-of-Practice-Compensation-Report-for-the-Regulatory-Profession.pdf.aspx?lang=en-US" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><span style="color: #ac145a;">Regulatory Affairs Professional Society (RAPS)</span></a>&nbsp;state that most professionals in regulatory affairs moved into the field after gaining experience in another industry.&nbsp;<br><br>Of those that came from another sector, the majority worked in fields closely related to regulation,&nbsp; including life science subjects associated industries such as: clinical science, biology, research and development, quality assurance and quality control, pharmacology, and healthcare industries.</p>
<h3><span style="color: #ac145a;"><strong><a style="color: #ac145a;" href="../../../../../../jobs">Apply for regulatory affairs roles here</a></strong></span></h3>

Regulatory affairs (RA), also known as government affairs, is a profession involved in monitoring and regulating the development, manufacture, testing and marketing of products from a range of industries.

STEM Professions: Jobs in STEM Regulatory Affairs

<h2><strong>What is analytical chemistry?</strong></h2>
<p>This field covers the implementation of analytical instruments and processes used to separate, identify, and quantify chemical matter. Those skilled in analytical chemistry deduce chemical structures as well as their behaviour in differing conditions. It covers a variety of purposes including drug development, forensic analysis and toxicology. Research and development (R&amp;D) of formulation and processes is key to continually improving end products.&nbsp;It has become an important function to help a company gather the needed information to move a product from development into the commercialisation phase.&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>What does an analytical chemist do?</strong></h2>
<div>Analytical chemists regularly involves test products, raw materials, and intermediates daily.<br><br>While the exact nature of the role depends on individual industries and settings, analysis remains a core part of the role regardless of which sector you're working in. From working within the forensics sector, and applying analysis to evidence of potential crimes, to working in the pharmaceutical industry to determine the quality and stability of drug products, analytical chemists benefit from a wide selection of career options.&nbsp;<br><br><strong>Typical responsibilities of an analytical chemist include:</strong><br>
<ul>
<li>Data analysis and interpretation</li>
<li>Data recording by guidelines</li>
<li>Research papers and report writing</li>
<li>Ensuring that health and safety standards are met</li>
</ul>
</div>
<div>Keeping up to date with scientific and technical trends<br>Developing novel analytical methods</div>
<div><br>Analytical chemists spend most of their time in a laboratory environment. The various experiments performed by them require handling potentially dangerous chemicals, so following standard protocols and safety procedures is highly important.</div>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>Are analytical chemists in demand?</strong></h2>
<p>Analytical chemistry offers good career prospects for practitioners. The demand for chemical analysis is growing across several industries, from environmental sample testing to verifying the health and safety standards of pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and FMCG products. This means that analytical chemistry is one of the most in-demand clinical roles in STEM. Thanks to being armed with a critical skill set, analytical chemistry is regarded as increasingly integral to companies' needs -- especially those that work along the product life cycle.&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>&nbsp;</strong></h2>
<h2><strong>What are the key trends in analytical chemistry?</strong></h2>
<p>Many sources are talking about blockchain technology and how this can help areas within the field.</p>
<p>There are still considerations that need to be ironed out but most agree that this technology can help improve security and innovation.</p>
<p>As blockchain data is not owned by any one individual, each person involved in the transaction has the opportunity to keep track of the data which limits the risks of inaccurate reporting and helps those involved remain honest in their transactions. Information can be shared in an open or closed community (a dedicated community of experts) by safely sharing information with all stakeholders in real time, following the rules set by the community without the need for validation or authorisation by third parties. As everyone is working on the same data, the time to market is reduced and innovation is facilitated.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Other trends</strong> like miniaturisation, automated analysis, and environmental chemistry are influencing analytical chemists today.</p>

We work with top analytical chemists across many niche disciplines within the sector - whether they are clients, candidates looking to start their careers, or well-established chemists looking for their next challenge. Discover key trends and take a look at the roles available in this fascinating area. Explore what it means to work in analytical chemistry.

STEM Professions: Jobs as an Analytical Chemist

<h3>With new advances in biometric technology taking place each year, biometrics is one of the most exciting areas in STEM -- offering diverse working environments, flexible lifestyles, and countless opportunities for innovation. Read on to find out more about this burgeoning career option.&nbsp;</h3>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>What is biometric authentication?</strong></h2>
<p>Biometric authentication is when every person can be accurately identified by intrinsic physical or behavioural traits.&nbsp;There are a huge number of applications for biometric technology and more are being invented constantly. Biometric authentication can be used to provide better-than-password security to online accounts or personal hardware (like phones, tablets or PCs).</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>What are biometrics used for?</strong></h2>
<p>Authentication by biometric verification is becoming increasingly common in several areas, including corporate and public security systems, point-of-sale (POS) applications, and consumer electronics. Biometrics are most notably used to authenticate financial transactions, especially processing payments. There are even applications in healthcare that help doctors and clinicians keep better patient health records.<br><br>Biometrics also help law enforcement agents catch criminals and make our airports more convenient. They also help keep lunch lines moving quickly in schools and make sure no students get lost on field trips. Biometrics are making our smartphones more usable and may prove the key to helping users seamlessly interface with the growing Internet of Things (IoT).</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>Types of biometrics</strong></h2>
<p>There are two primary types of biometric identifiers: physiological characteristics or behavioural characteristics.</p>
<p><strong>Physiological identifiers</strong>&nbsp;refer to the physical measurements of the human body, which are then used to authenticate an individual. Examples of these identifiers include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Facial recognition</li>
<li>Fingerprints</li>
<li>Voice recognition</li>
<li>Iris recognition</li>
<li>Retina scanning</li>
<li>Finger geometry</li>
<li>DNA matching</li>
<li>Digital signatures</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Behavioural identifiers&nbsp;refer to the unique ways in which individuals act, and can be used to provide continuous identification. These methods include:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Walking gait</li>
<li>Typing patterns</li>
<li>Physical gestures (such as hand motion)</li>
<li>Computer mouse use<br><br></li>
</ul>
<h2><strong>What are the key trends in biometrics?</strong></h2>
<p>The global biometrics market is forecast to reach $82.8bn (&pound;62bn) by the year 2027.<br><br>Hackers are keeping this field on its toes and there is a requirement for something &ldquo;better than a password." NYU researchers have developed a fingerprint template which allows them to trick iPhones into unlocking. If universities are able to produce this, hackers are definitely onto the technology too. To combat this, companies like Mastercard are leading the way in research into other methods of authentication for their mobile app, using face recognition with a simple blink (to show that it is a live person and not just a photo) that is harder to replicate.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>Biometrics jobs near me</strong></h2>
<p>We work with top biometrics professionals across many niche disciplines within the sector, whether they are as clients, as candidates looking to start their careers, or well-established biometrics professionals looking for their next challenge.</p>
<h4><span style="color: #ac145a;"><strong><a style="color: #ac145a;" href="../../../../../../jobs">Apply for the latest biometrics roles now</a></strong></span></h4>

Biometrics is the measurement and statistical analysis of people's unique physical and behavioural characteristics. The technology is mainly used for identification and access control, or for identifying individuals who are under surveillance.

STEM Professions: Jobs in Biometrics

<h3><span id="docs-internal-guid-ba117780-7fff-09e7-0704-178f21f3a006">Medical devices are essential for the safe and effective prevention, diagnosis, treatment and rehabilitation of illness and disease. By aiding natural physiological processes and providing important clinical data, they are crucial for safeguarding the health and wellbeing of people all across the globe.</span></h3>
<p>With plenty of opportunities for travel, professional development and international employment &mdash; as well as the opportunity to make a positive impact on public health &mdash; there&rsquo;s never been a better time to work in the field.</p>
<p>But what are medical devices, exactly? And what does a career in the industry look like? To help your job search, we&rsquo;ve put together this sector specific job profile.<br><br></p>
<h2><strong>What is a medical device?</strong></h2>
<p>&ldquo;Medical device&rdquo; is an extremely expansive term that can encompass a wide range of items intended for medical use &mdash; from syringes and scalpels to pulse oximeters and pacemakers.</p>
<h3><strong>Definitions</strong></h3>
<p>According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), a medical device is any instrument, apparatus, implement or machine intended by the manufacturer to be used (either alone or in combination) for a medical purpose for human beings. These purposes can include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Diagnosing, monitoring, treating and alleviating disease</li>
<li>Supporting or sustaining life</li>
<li>Controlling contraception</li>
<li>Providing accurate patient data to help improve healthcare pathways</li>
</ul>
<p>Often, it can be hard to distinguish between a medicine and a medical device. For companies to market a product as a medical device, they first need to gain approval from the relevant regulatory body.&nbsp;<br><br>In the UK, the&nbsp;<span style="color: #ac145a;"><a style="color: #ac145a;" href="https://www.gov.uk/government/news/welcome-to-our-new-mhra-website" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Medicine and Healthcare products Regulatory Agency (MHRA)</a>&nbsp;</span>makes decisions on whether a product is a medicine or medical device. Until a product&rsquo;s status has been decided, it is known as a borderline product.<br><br></p>
<h3><strong>Classification</strong></h3>
<p>Medical devices are classified by the regulatory authorities that oversee the marketing of such devices in different countries. Devices are often split into classes depending on the level of risk to the patient or user. Under US Food and Drink Administration (FDA) regulation, for example, there are three classes of medical devices.<br><br>These are:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Class I -</strong>&nbsp;These are low-risk devices, such as bandages, handheld surgical instruments, enema kits, and non-electric wheelchairs.</li>
<li><strong>Class II&nbsp; -</strong>&nbsp;These are intermediate-risk devices. Examples include electric wheelchairs, infusion pumps, and some pregnancy testing kits.</li>
<li><strong>Class III -&nbsp;</strong>These are high-risk devices that are vital to health and/or sustaining life. 10% of medical devices regulated by the FDA are class III devices. Examples include implantable pacemakers, pulse generators, HIV diagnostic tests, and automated external defibrillators.</li>
</ul>
<table>
<tbody>
<tr>
<td>&nbsp;<strong>Did you know?</strong></td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td>&nbsp;The world&rsquo;s oldest known medical device &mdash; a Neolithic dental drill made of flint &mdash; was made over 9,000 years ago in modern-day Pakistan.</td>
</tr>
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<h2><strong><br>Medical devices industry outlook</strong></h2>
<p><span style="color: #ac145a;"><a style="color: #ac145a;" href="https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/industry-reports/medical-devices-market-100085" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Fortune Business Insights</a>&nbsp;</span>estimates that the global medical devices market was worth US$ 425.5bn in 2018. By 2025, the global market is expected to reach US$ 612.7bn, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.4%.</p>
<p>Interestingly, the growth of the market in emerging nations is outpacing growth in developed nations. In 2018, the North American market was valued at US$ 169.3bn (40% of the global market share). While this region is expected to hold a significant share of the market in the forecasted period up to 2025, growth in the emerging Asia-Pacific region is anticipated to be faster due to increasing per capita income, an ageing population, more widespread disease awareness and improving health infrastructure.<br><br>Certain trends underpin this rapid growth. Increasingly, large companies are outsourcing their R&amp;D efforts to smaller Medtech businesses that specialise entirely on medical devices. Meanwhile, tech giants such as Google have launched pioneering partnerships with the digital health market, turbocharging innovation and creating new jobs. Finally, the rise of Big Data and Software as a Medical Device (SaMD) is creating a new revenue stream for Medtech.&nbsp;<br><br><a href="../../../../../blog/what-is-the-future-of-the-smart-medical-devices-market"><br></a></p>
<h2><strong>Examples of medical device manufacturers</strong></h2>
<p>According to&nbsp;<span style="color: #ac145a;"><a style="color: #ac145a;" href="https://www.mpo-mag.com/issues/2019-07-25/view_features/the-2019-top-30-global-medical-device-companies-400900/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Medical Product Outsourcing</a></span>, the most prominent global medical device employers with the biggest market share in 2019 were:</p>
<ul>
<li>Medtronic</li>
<li>Johnson &amp; Johnson</li>
<li>Abbott</li>
<li>GE Healthcare</li>
<li>Philips Healthcare</li>
<li>BD</li>
</ul>
<p>Aside from the big conglomerates, there are also hundreds of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and combined drug-device companies that manufacture medical device products.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>Medical device companies near me</strong></h2>
<p>Interested in working for a medical device company in your area?&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong><br>Different types of medical device jobs</strong></h2>
<p>Because the medical device industry is such a broad field that is constantly expanding, medical devices roles are split into various sub-sectors. These areas of specialism include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Quality Assurance (QA)</li>
<li>Quality Control (QC)</li>
<li>Manufacturing</li>
<li>Field Engineering</li>
<li>Research and Development (R&amp;D) Design</li>
<li>Validation</li>
<li>Sales</li>
</ul>
<h2><strong><br>What does a medical device sales rep do?</strong></h2>
<p>One of the fastest-growing sub-sectors of the medical device market is sales.&nbsp;<br><br>As a sales representative, you&rsquo;ll be expected to sell your company's devices to a range of customers and clients, including GPs, hospital doctors, pharmacists and nurses. Medical device sales roles are target-driven and can often be demanding for newcomers to the sector.<br><br>The job typically involves ensuring compliance with healthcare and medtech regulation, as well as working strategically to raise awareness of your employer and its products. Sales reps act as an important link between pharmaceutical companies and healthcare professionals.<br><br>Most sales reps specialise in a particular product or medical area.</p>
<h3><strong><br>Work environment</strong></h3>
<p>While you may often have to work extra hours in the evenings, you will not be expected to work shifts or weekends. Work is mostly office-based but often involves being responsible for a particular geographical area, so you will be required to travel to meet clients. Self-employment or freelance work is possible but very uncommon. The vast majority of medical device sales reps work on a full-time, 9-to-5 basis.</p>
<h3><strong><br>Responsibilities</strong></h3>
<p>The ongoing technological innovation and the globalisation of markets in recent years mean that the minutiae of medical device roles are constantly changing to meet demand. The duties and responsibilities of medical device professionals vary from company to company, though typical tasks usually include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Arranging appointments with key people in the medical world</li>
<li>Developing long-term relationships with existing customers and building new ones</li>
<li>Delivering presentations to healthcare professionals in hospital and retail environments</li>
<li>Organising conferences for doctors and other medical staff, and manage the budget for such events</li>
<li>Meeting (and, if possible, exceeding) annual sales targets</li>
<li>Keep an eye on competitors&rsquo; activity and their sales performance</li>
</ul>
<h2><strong><br>How much do you make in medical device sales?</strong></h2>
<p>According to Payscale, the average salary for a medical device sales professional in the UK is around &pound;35,000. The starting salary for entry-level medical device sales jobs typically ranges from around &pound;20,000 to &pound;30,000. Managers and senior-level sales reps usually earn upwards of &pound;40,000.</p>
<h2><strong><br>How do I become a medical device sales rep?</strong></h2>
<p>Despite being a highly competitive and demanding field, medical device sales represents a great opportunity to make a name for yourself in an innovative, dynamic sector.</p>
<h3><strong><br>Qualifications</strong></h3>
<p>Typically, the minimum requirement to become an entry-level medical device sales rep is usually a graduate degree, particularly in an area such as life sciences, engineering, medicine or pharmacy. Having an additional postgraduate degree in a field related to medical device sales can also substantially enhance your career prospects.<br><br>Having a science degree isn&rsquo;t a necessity, however. Business and marketing are particularly useful areas for medical device sales. If you don&rsquo;t have an academic qualification, it&rsquo;s possible to enter the profession with a Higher National Diploma (HND) or foundation degree. Enrolling in training courses specific to your desired area of specialisation will also give you an advantage.</p>
<h3><strong><br>Skills and experience</strong></h3>
<p>Medical device sales employers look for candidates who are adaptable, proactive and can point to a proven track record of success in the area. As such, academic qualifications alone will not be enough if you are looking for a mid-to-senior-level role.&nbsp;<br><br>Again, requirements vary from business to business. Certain skills are mandatory, however, and successful candidates should be able to demonstrate:</p>
<ul>
<li>Commercial and business awareness</li>
<li>Sales and customer relationship skills</li>
<li>In-depth knowledge of the latest developments in biotech, medtech and healthcare</li>
<li>IT and numeracy skills</li>
<li>Analytical and problem-solving skills</li>
<li>Critical thinking</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>TIP: To boost your chances of landing your dream medical devices role, make sure to network and build relationships wherever you can. Having key industry contacts who can attest to your skill set will enhance your online presence and help you stand out to potential employers.</strong></p>
<h3><strong><br><span style="color: #ac145a;"><a style="color: #ac145a;" href="../../../../../../jobs">Apply for medical device jobs here</a></span></strong></h3>

With the smart medical devices market expanding at a rapid rate, medical device jobs are in high demand all across the world.

STEM Professions: Jobs in the Medical Device Sector

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<h3 dir="ltr">According to the Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS), biomedical scientists provide the &lsquo;engine room&rsquo; of modern medicine. Without their contributions, some of the medical breakthroughs of recent years may not have happened.</h3>
<p dir="ltr">In the UK, 70% of NHS diagnoses are based on pathology results provided by biomedical scientists working in laboratories. Globally, more than $240bn is spent on biomedical research and development each year. With the field providing job opportunities across various sectors in a range of locations, biomedical science offers an extremely rewarding career for practitioners.</p>
<p dir="ltr">To aid your job search, we&rsquo;ve compiled this biomedical scientist job profile that explores the different elements of one of the most compelling professions in STEM.</p>
<p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>What does a biomedical scientist do?</strong></h2>
As a biomedical scientist, you&rsquo;ll test patient samples, biopsies, and fluids to help doctors and other clinicians investigate and diagnose illnesses such as HIV, cancer, diabetes, hepatitis, and meningitis, as well blood disorders such as anaemia.<span id="docs-internal-guid-9e934757-7fff-273b-12a3-b4c6926435cc"></span>
<p dir="ltr">Working as part of a laboratory team, you&rsquo;ll play a key role in evaluating the effectiveness of treatments, develop social programs to improve public health outcomes, and provide evidence-based advice to medical professionals.<span id="docs-internal-guid-9e934757-7fff-273b-12a3-b4c6926435cc"></span></p>
<p dir="ltr">Most biomedical scientists specialise in one of four areas: infection sciences; blood sciences; cell sciences; or genetics and molecular pathology. You&rsquo;ll also be expected to have an in-depth understanding of areas such as anatomy, physiology, microbiology, mathematics and psychology.&nbsp;</p>
<p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><strong>Work environment</strong></h3>
<p dir="ltr">Biomedical scientists spend the bulk of their time in a laboratory environment. That said, certain parts of the role may also be partially based in offices or, depending on the employer, onsite at large-scale medicine manufacturing plants.&nbsp;<span id="docs-internal-guid-4deca6f1-7fff-7805-502c-4dd2ed53601d"></span></p>
<p dir="ltr">As with other lab-based roles, biomedical science jobs require professionals to wear protective clothing such as lab coats, safety glasses and gloves.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Most biomedical scientists work 9-to-5 on a full-time basis. However, some employers may require you to work weekend shifts or be on-call, so a flexible approach to work is generally expected.</p>
<p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><strong>Roles and responsibilities</strong></h3>
<p dir="ltr">As a biomedical scientist, you&rsquo;ll test, analyse and review patient fluids to support doctors in diagnosing and treating human disease.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Other responsibilities include:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li dir="ltr">Performing routine testing on biological specimens</li>
<li dir="ltr">Processing patient samples promptly</li>
<li dir="ltr">Capturing reliable and precise data</li>
<li dir="ltr">Identifying data anomalies</li>
<li dir="ltr">Monitoring organ function</li>
<li dir="ltr">Analysing blood for disease</li>
<li dir="ltr">Presenting test results to medical staff</li>
<li dir="ltr">Ordering stock and materials</li>
<li dir="ltr">Regularly cleaning and maintaining lab equipment</li>
<li dir="ltr">Supervising trainee biomedical scientists</li>
</ul>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>What skills does a biomedical scientist need?<br></strong></h2>
<ul>
<li dir="ltr">An analytical mindset</li>
<li dir="ltr">Good manual dexterity</li>
<li dir="ltr">Time management</li>
<li dir="ltr">The ability to prioritise tasks</li>
<li dir="ltr">Advanced research skills</li>
<li dir="ltr">Flexibility</li>
<li dir="ltr">Responsibility</li>
<li dir="ltr">Common sense</li>
<li dir="ltr">Excellent verbal communication</li>
<li dir="ltr">Teamworking skills</li>
<li dir="ltr">Patience</li>
<li dir="ltr">IT skills</li>
</ul>
<h3 dir="ltr"><span style="color: #ac145a;"><a style="color: #ac145a;" href="../../../../../../jobs">Browse the latest biomedical science vacancies with SRG &gt;</a></span></h3>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>Industries and employers<br></strong></h2>
<p dir="ltr">Biomedical scientists are employed by both public- and private-sector organisations across a range of STEM sectors.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Major employers of biomedical scientists include:</p>
<ul>
<li dir="ltr">Hospitals and public health organisations</li>
<li dir="ltr">Universities and colleges</li>
<li dir="ltr">Specialist research organisations</li>
<li dir="ltr">Government agencies</li>
<li dir="ltr">Government-funded research institutions</li>
<li dir="ltr">Scientific research &amp; development agencies</li>
<li dir="ltr">Pharmaceutical companies</li>
<li dir="ltr">Military</li>
<li dir="ltr">Medicine manufacturing companies</li>
</ul>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>Tip: As a biomedical science graduate, competition for biomedical scientist positions can be fierce. We recommend submitting your application as early as possible when applying for a job, as well as seeking out internship and practical work opportunities while studying - doing so will increase your chances of having the hiring manager review your CV.</strong></p>
<p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>How much does a biomedical scientist earn?<br></strong></h2>
<p dir="ltr">Biomedical science offers an array of well-paid roles with competitive salaries for graduates and experienced professionals alike.</p>
<p dir="ltr">According to Prospects.ac.uk, the national average starting salary for a biomedical scientist salary in the UK ranges from around &pound;23,000 to &pound;30,000. In private-sector roles, starting salaries range between &pound;18,000 and &pound;22,000.</p>
<p dir="ltr">More experienced and specialist biomedical scientists can earn up to &pound;50,000, while senior or consultant biomedical scientists are higher still. However, it&rsquo;s worth noting that salaries can vary depending on factors such as the employer&rsquo;s size, sector, and location.</p>
<p dir="ltr">In the US, the average biomedical scientist salary is just shy of $70,000. Salaries range from around $40,000 at the entry-level to three figures at the senior level.</p>
<p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>How do you become a biomedical scientist?<br></strong></h2>
<p dir="ltr">To be a biomedical scientist in the UK, you&rsquo;ll need an honours degree (BSc) in biomedical science from a university accredited by the&nbsp;<span style="color: #ac145a;"><a style="color: #ac145a;" href="http://www.ibms.org/go/qualifications" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Institute of Biomedical Science (IBMS)</a>&nbsp;</span>and approved by the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.hcpc-uk.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><span style="color: #ac145a;">Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC)</span></a>.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Aside from an honours degree, collecting a Master&rsquo;s degree or PhD in biomedical science will significantly improve your chances of finding work.</p>
<p dir="ltr">In the US, the educational threshold for a biomedical scientist is significantly higher than that of a laboratory technician: to pursue a career as a biomedical scientist, you&rsquo;ll need a PhD in the biological sciences.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Tip: Collecting laboratory experience during your time at university increases your employability. Such experience can be gained by doing a placement year in industry as part of your degree. Alternatively, you can apply for part-time laboratory work to supplement your studies.</p>
<p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p>
<h2 dir="ltr"><strong>Career progression<br></strong></h2>
<p dir="ltr">With additional experience, you could progress to manage a team or department within a laboratory, or manage a particular area of service provision such as health and safety. You could also become a consultant biomedical scientist.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><span style="color: #ac145a;"><a style="color: #ac145a;" href="../../../../../../jobs"><strong>Discover your future today. apply for the latest biomedical scientist jobs &gt;</strong></a></span></h3>
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By carrying out tests on samples collected by doctors and nurses, biomedical scientists help health professionals diagnose and prevent a broad range of medical conditions.

STEM Professions: Biomedical Science Careers

<h3>Quality assurance (QA) is any systematic process of determining whether a product or service meets specified requirements.</h3>
<p>It establishes and maintains set requirements for developing or manufacturing reliable products. Now a formalised practice which started in the manufacturing industry, it has spread to most industries. Quality assurance can take you on a varied and exciting journey throughout your career.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>What are the key trends in quality assurance?</strong></h2>
<p>Due to the nature of this sector, it is hard to pin down one major area where this profession is most common. The fact that this is a necessary role in many areas of science, clinical and engineering gives those aiming for a career a multitude of varied companies and institutions to choose from.</p>
<p>One area that is being addressed is the change in the skill set required for moving the pharmaceutical industry to a &ldquo;4.0&rdquo; maturity level. New kinds of employee profiles and qualifications are needed. The &ldquo;Workforce of the Future&rdquo; initiative, introduced by the International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineering (ISPE), includes a variety of members from top pharmaceutical companies. In the next five to ten years, the industry will need a highly-skilled workforce with competencies that differ from the past.</p>
<p>The initiative plans to work with the industry and academia to develop university curricula. During the initial phase with nine selected universities, they identified a number of potential gaps in university curricula:</p>
<ul>
<li>Combination Products and Delivering Systems</li>
<li>Robotics and Automation</li>
<li>IT Data Management, including data analysis, modelling, statistics, and data visualisation</li>
<li>Regulatory Sciences, including cGMP and GMP hands-on training</li>
<li>Project Management, including risk management in manufacturing processes&nbsp;(biotech and small molecules) and related cost analysis</li>
<li>Process Analytical Technology to achieve real-time release</li>
</ul>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>The latest quality assurance jobs</strong></h2>
<p>SRG has a very strong foundation in recruitment across the scientific, chemical, and engineering recruitment sectors for quality assurance. Because we only work with the best STEM companies, our expansive network within quality assurance hotspots gives us a wide range of quality assurance jobs and allows us to match you to the right company.<br><br>The types of roles we typically recruit for are in pharma, food, medical devices, FMCG, health care, cosmetics, chemicals (API manufacturing), and contract manufacturing.</p>
<h3><span style="color: #ac145a;"><strong><a style="color: #ac145a;" href="../../../../../../jobs">Search for the latest quality assurance roles with SRG</a></strong></span></h3>

Quality assurance refers to the process of preventing mistakes and defects in the manufacturing of products. As a critical component in any industry that involves product development, manufacturing, assembly, or delivery, quality assurance work is in consistently high demand. Find out more about this rewarding and challenging career here.

STEM Professions: Jobs in STEM Quality Assurance

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<p>With the global clinical research market growing and a host of new opportunities appearing across the world, there&rsquo;s never been a better time to enter the clinical research profession.&nbsp;<br><br>Whether you&rsquo;re seeking work as a project manager in the public sector or as a clinical trial administrator at one of the world&rsquo;s top pharmaceutical companies, clinical research is an exciting career choice with plenty of opportunities for development, progression and travel.<br><br>To aid your job search, this quick guide looks at what it&rsquo;s like to work in this compelling industry.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>What&rsquo;s the difference between clinical research and basic research?</strong></h2>
<ul>
<li>Clinical research tests the safety and effectiveness of drugs in a healthcare environment</li>
<li>Basic research aims to understand some aspect of biology at a very basic level</li>
</ul>
In science, &ldquo;research&rdquo; is a broad term that can be used to encompass any systematic investigation into materials and sources that seeks to establish facts and reach new, peer-reviewed conclusions.<br><br>In medical research, there are three principal areas of research: basic, clinical and translational.&nbsp;<br><br><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Basic research&nbsp;</span><br></strong>Basic research represents the crucial, curiosity-driven starting point for scientific inquiry. The aim of basic research is to advance our fundamental understanding of a certain concept by creating, supporting or refuting theories that explain observed phenomena.&nbsp;<br><br><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Clinical research&nbsp;</strong></span><br>Clinical research is a branch of healthcare science that explores how safe and effective novel treatments, medications, medical devices and diagnostic techniques are when administered to patients. By running stringent clinical trials, researchers monitor patients&rsquo; progress and measure the efficacy and/or benefits of a new drug.<br><br><span style="text-decoration: underline;"><strong>Translational research</strong></span><br>Translational research is an interdisciplinary branch of the biomedical field that brings together specialists from a number of areas &mdash; broaching the divide between basic and clinical research. It builds on the initial findings of basic research to advance the applications of a discovery.&nbsp;<br><br>
<h2><strong>What is done in clinical research?</strong></h2>
Clinical research involves human participants and helps to translate the findings of basic research into new treatments and medications that benefit patients.&nbsp;The most common type of clinical research study is a controlled clinical trial.&nbsp;<br><br>According to the&nbsp;World Health Organisation (WHO), a clinical trial is &ldquo;any research study that prospectively assigns human participants or groups of humans to one or more health-related interventions to evaluate the effects on health outcomes. Interventions include but are not restricted to drugs, cells and other biological products, surgical procedures, radiological procedures, devices, behavioural treatments, process-of-care changes, preventive care, etc.&rdquo;<br><br>Clinical trials are broken down into different stages, called phases. These increase in size and scope as the study progresses.&nbsp;<br><br>A Phase I trial, for example, may examine the side effects of a new medication and only involve a dozen people. A Phase IV trial, on the other hand, may involve thousands of participants and test whether a new medication is better than existing treatments.<br><br>All clinical operations are subject to international ethical, scientific and practical standards. As such, it&rsquo;s up to clinical research associates to ensure that<span style="color: #ac145a;">&nbsp;<a style="color: #ac145a;" href="https://www.nihr.ac.uk/health-and-care-professionals/learning-and-support/good-clinical-practice.htm" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Good Clinical Practice (GCP)</a></span>&nbsp;is adhered to when conducting a trial.&nbsp;<br><br>Other therapeutic areas that can fall under clinical research include epidemiology, physiology and pathophysiology, health services, education, and mental health.<br><br>
<h2><strong>Is clinical research a good career?</strong></h2>
With competitive salaries and a healthy future outlook, clinical research represents a great career choice. If you&rsquo;re interested in building on the latest scientific findings and ensuring novel therapeutic treatments and medications are safe and effective, this might just be the career for you.&nbsp;<br><br>The clinical trials industry employs millions of people worldwide, with excellent job opportunities in locations as far afield as North America, Europe, India, Singapore, and Australia. Given that the global clinical trials market is expected to reach USD 68.9 billion by 2026, it&rsquo;s little wonder that there is a rising demand for trained professionals in the field.<br><br>
<h2><strong>How do I start a career in clinical research?</strong></h2>
As a minimum requirement, you&rsquo;ll need a graduate or postgraduate degree in a relevant field. Aside from clinical research, this can include fields as diverse as biochemistry, pharmacology, nursing, epidemiology, physiology, chemistry, and even pre-medical studies.&nbsp;<br><br>While it&rsquo;s technically possible to find work in clinical research without the relevant qualifications (working up from an administrative role, for example), pursuing this route carries no guarantees of employment.<br><br>When studying towards a career in clinical research, it&rsquo;s also worth gaining as much research work experience in a laboratory or clinical trial setting as possible. Clinical research internships are one such way to enhance your skills and employability.&nbsp;<br><br>
<h2><strong>What&rsquo;s it like to work in clinical research?</strong></h2>
Working in clinical research is hugely rewarding, challenging and varied. For more on the ins and outs of working in the industry, feel free to reach out to one of our consultants for a chat about your career goals.<br><br>
<h2>Clinical research career options</h2>
Type of clinical research jobs include:<br>
<ul>
<li>Biostatistician</li>
<li>Clinical Data Manager (CDM)</li>
<li>Clinical Research Associate (CRA)</li>
<li>Clinical Research Coordinator</li>
<li>Clinical Research Scientist</li>
<li>Clinical Trial Manager</li>
<li>Clinical Trial Monitor</li>
<li>Pharmacovigilance Associate (PVA)</li>
<li>Regulatory Affairs Manager (RAM)</li>
</ul>
<p><strong><span style="color: #ac145a;"><a style="color: #ac145a;" href="../../../../../jobs?keywords=clinical+research">Browse the latest clinical research vacancies</a></span><br></strong></p>
<br>
<h2><strong>How much do clinical researchers get paid?</strong></h2>
The average salary for a scientist working in a clinical research associate job in the UK is &pound;32,087. The average salary for a clinical scientist in the UK is &pound;39,183, while the average UK salary for a senior clinical project manager is &pound;59,310. Most entry-level roles in clinical research range from &pound;20,000 to &pound;30,000.<br><br>Wages in clinical research are highly competitive and depend on a number of variables, including job title, level of experience, employer and location.&nbsp;<br><br><br>
<h2><strong>What is a clinical research associate (CRA) in the medical field?</strong></h2>
These experts are healthcare professionals who work in the field of medical research and play a key role in the drug development process.&nbsp;<br><br>Also known as a clinical monitor or trial monitors, CRAs are involved in the end-to-end duration of a clinical trial. Responsibilities may include:<br>
<ul>
<li>Writing trial protocols</li>
<li>Setting up trial sites</li>
<li>Monitoring participants</li>
<li>Ensuring trials comply with Good Clinical Practice standards</li>
<li>Collecting, distributing and storing data</li>
</ul>
The day-to-day activities and responsibilities of a CRA can vary from company to company, particularly in the private sector. CRAs can typically find work within Clinical Research Organisations (CRO), pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies and, occasionally, in hospital academic departments.<br><br><br>
<h2><strong>What qualifications do I need to be a CRA?</strong></h2>
<strong>To become a CRA, you&rsquo;ll need to obtain a graduate or postgraduate degree in one of the following:</strong><br><br>
<ul>
<li>Clinical Research</li>
<li>Anatomy</li>
<li>Molecular Biology</li>
<li>Biochemistry</li>
<li>Genetics</li>
<li>Chemistry</li>
<li>Microbiology</li>
<li>Toxicology</li>
<li>Pharmacology</li>
<li>Bioengineering</li>
<li>Immunology</li>
<li>Physiology</li>
</ul>
Given the level of technical expertise needed, finding a job without a degree is extremely difficult in this profession.<br><br>Prior experience with clinical trials is a big bonus, as is a doctoral degree in clinical research or a related discipline. Having a CRA certification will also help when applying for more senior positions.<br><br><br>
<h2><strong>How do I become CRA certified?</strong></h2>
Professional development is key in a crowded jobs market, and clinical research offers plenty of opportunities for L&amp;D. One such avenue is to become CRA certified.&nbsp;<br><br>To obtain CRA certification, you&rsquo;ll need to join a professional clinical research organisation or network. These include:<br><br>
<ul>
<li><span style="color: #ac145a;"><a style="color: #ac145a;" href="http://www.acrpnet.org/MainMenuCategory/Membership.aspx" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">ACRP</a>&nbsp;</span>&ndash; Association of Clinical Research Professional</li>
<li><span style="color: #ac145a;"><a style="color: #ac145a;" href="http://www.socra.org/index.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">SoCRA</a>&nbsp;</span>&ndash; Society of Clinical Research Associates</li>
<li><a href="https://www.ccra.org.uk/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer"><span style="color: #ac145a;">CCRA</span></a>&nbsp;&ndash; Clinical &amp; Contract Research Association</li>
<li><span style="color: #ac145a;"><a style="color: #ac145a;" href="https://icr-global.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">ICR</a></span>&nbsp;&ndash; Institute of Clinical Research</li>
</ul>
<p>These organisations typically provide both on-site and online training geared towards a final paid-for exam. To take the exam, you&rsquo;ll likely have to prove you have several years&rsquo; experience in the profession, a letter of recommendation from an employer or client, and documented relevant training.<br><br>Though becoming CRA certified isn&rsquo;t a necessity, doing so will help you stand out from the crowd and strengthen your career prospects.</p>
<h4><span style="color: #ac145a;"><strong><a style="color: #ac145a;" href="../../../../../../jobs">Apply for clinical research roles</a></strong></span></h4>
</article>

As the study of health and illness in people, this vast discipline helps to translate laboratory research into treatment outcomes that benefit patients. Clinical research is one of the most exciting life sciences careers around.

STEM Professions: Clinical Research Career Options

<h3 dir="ltr">From widely shared blogs by LinkedIn influencers to STEM educators teaching critical thinking, we've all heard people celebrate the potentially life-changing results that adopting a "growth mindset" can bring.<br><br></h3>
<p dir="ltr">But what is a growth mindset, exactly? And why does it make sense to cultivate one?</p>
<p dir="ltr">In this comprehensive guide, we'll give you the lowdown on this trending topic and provide advice on how to implement a growth mindset in your day-to-day life <em>&mdash;</em>&nbsp;showing you how a small change in mental habits can have a huge payoff.</p>
<p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>What is a growth mindset?</strong>&nbsp;</h2>
<p dir="ltr"><em>&ldquo;In a&nbsp;<strong>growth mindset</strong>, people believe that their most basic abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work &mdash; brains and talent are just the starting point. This view creates a love of learning and a resilience that is essential for great accomplishment.&rdquo;<br><br></em>&mdash; Carol Dweck, 2015</p>
<p dir="ltr">While ideas around the importance mindsets have been around for decades, much of the widespread popularity of the "growth mindset" can be attributed to the work of the celebrated Stanford University psychology professor, Carol Dweck.</p>
<p dir="ltr">In her bestselling 2006 book, <em>Mindset: The Psychology of Success</em>, Dweck argues that people&rsquo;s views about &ldquo;where ability comes from&rdquo; can be placed on a continuum between a &ldquo;fixed mindset&rdquo; and a &ldquo;growth mindset.&rdquo; Let's take a look at them in further detail.</p>
<p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p>
<h3><strong>A fixed mindset: static and risk-averse</strong></h3>
<p dir="ltr">With a fixed mindset, people believe their basic abilities, intelligence and talents are innate, fixed traits. In other words, these traits are something a person either possesses or lacks. Consequently, the actions and goals of people with a fixed mindset revolve around being risk-averse and staying in their &ldquo;comfort zones.&rdquo;&nbsp;</p>
<p dir="ltr">The irony behind a fixed mindset is that it hinders people of all intellectual abilities.&nbsp;</p>
<p dir="ltr">For those with a reputation for being &ldquo;naturally smart,&rdquo; exuding an air of succeeding without trying (in other words, maintaining their reputation) comes at a cost of creativity and innovation. For underachievers, a fixed attitude to intelligence prevents them from discovering skills they didn&rsquo;t know they possessed. In both cases, a fixed mindset makes it harder for people to realise their true potential.</p>
<p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p>
<h3><strong>A growth mindset: agile and innovative</strong></h3>
<p dir="ltr">People with a growth mindset understand and acknowledge that their talents and abilities (and even intelligence) can be developed through effort, mentorship and persistence.&nbsp;</p>
<p dir="ltr">This mindset does not necessarily view intelligence as a blank canvas or that everyone has an equal footing, however. Instead, they believe anyone, regardless of socioeconomic background, can become smarter with a bit of dedication and hard work.&nbsp;</p>
<p dir="ltr">With a growth mindset, every perceived failure is seen as an opportunity to learn new skills and adopt new strategies. Instead of an insurmountable obstacle to our ambitions, failure becomes an integral step towards success.</p>
<p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p>
<h3><strong>The &lsquo;power of yet&rsquo; vs &lsquo;the tyranny of now&rsquo;</strong></h3>
<p dir="ltr">Dweck suggests that you go one further by transcending the paradigm of success and failure altogether. As an alternative, she proposes you address challenges by saying to yourself: &ldquo;not yet.&rdquo;&nbsp;</p>
<p dir="ltr">While &ldquo;success&rdquo; and &ldquo;failure&rdquo; are two broad concepts that can lead to exhaustive semantics, the two simple words &ldquo;not yet&rdquo; open up a window to the future. They give learning a temporal dimension and push us towards your goals. They are an integral part of the growth mindset.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Dweck calls this idea of an ongoing journey the &ldquo;power of yet,&rdquo; which she contrasts with the &ldquo;tyranny of now&rdquo; response inherent in a fixed mindset (&ldquo;if I fail at the first hurdle, there&rsquo;s no point in persisting&rdquo;). In a growth mindset, the potential for growth overrides and overcomes in-the-moment anxieties.</p>
<p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p>
<p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p>
<h3><strong>The science behind a growth mindset</strong></h3>
<p dir="ltr">The notion of a growth mindset is closely linked to&nbsp;neuroplasticity, which describes the brain&rsquo;s ability to change continuously throughout an adult&rsquo;s life.&nbsp;</p>
<p dir="ltr">Thanks to the brain&rsquo;s neuroplasticity, the connections between neurons can change with experience. Neural growth can be accelerated by our behaviours or lifestyle modulators, including physical activity, a healthy diet and a good sleep routine.&nbsp;</p>
<p dir="ltr">Broadly speaking, there are two types of brain plasticity:</p>
<ul>
<li dir="ltr"><strong>Functional neuroplasticity</strong>&nbsp;&mdash;&nbsp;our brain&rsquo;s&nbsp;ability to transfer functions from a damaged region to other undamaged regions</li>
<li dir="ltr"><strong>Structural neuroplasticity</strong><strong>&nbsp;</strong>&mdash;&nbsp;our brain's ability to change its physical structure (neuronal connections) as a result of learning</li>
</ul>
<p dir="ltr">While the theory of brain plasticity has been around since the 19th century, the idea was largely ignored by the scientific community&nbsp;well into the 20th century. Indeed, despite claims by the psychologist, William James that&nbsp;"organic matter, especially nervous tissue, seems endowed with a very extraordinary degree of plasticity"&nbsp;(from his 1890 book&nbsp;<em>The Principles of Psychology</em>),&nbsp;the consensus among researchers was that changes in the brain could only occur in infancy and childhood.&nbsp;</p>
<p dir="ltr">By the 1960s, James&rsquo; hypotheses had been vindicated by a growing body of supporting evidence, including studies that showed healthy regions of the brain could partially take over functions that had been destroyed during a stroke.&nbsp;</p>
<p dir="ltr">Since then, further research has revealed other characteristics of neuroplasticity. We now know that while neuroplasticity declines as we age, the process does not come to a complete standstill. What&rsquo;s more, we also know that new neurons can appear in certain regions of the brain right up until our final moments.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Arguably the most well-known example of brain plasticity in action was the study of London taxi drivers (Maguire, Woollett, &amp; Spiers, 2006). In the study, taxi drivers were found to have a larger hippocampus (the brain structure that plays a role in learning and memory) than London bus drivers.&nbsp;</p>
<p dir="ltr">The reason? While bus drivers mostly followed pre-planned routes, taxi drivers were required to remember each backstreet and possible detour when navigating across the city. By stimulating their hippocampus on a regular basis, taxi drivers quite literally changed the physical structure of their brains. Similar structural changes have been observed in the left inferior parietal cortex of bilingual people (Mechelli et al., 2004), as well as in the motor cortex of professional musicians (Gaser &amp; Schlaug, 2003).</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>4 ways to cultivate a growth mindset</strong></h2>
<h3><strong>1) Gravitate towards people who already have a growth mindset</strong></h3>
<p dir="ltr">As work becomes increasingly specialised and competitive, finding solutions or coming up with new ideas can prove difficult. This can have a knock-on effect on your learning and development, and people can end up falling back upon the familiarity of a fixed mindset to cope with uncertainty.</p>
<p dir="ltr">To adopt the growth mindset necessary for success, it&rsquo;s important to focus on people&rsquo;s capacity and not their pedigree. In other words, people who demonstrate a commitment to learning and a passion for experimentation should be sought out. Such people will encourage collaboration, act with initiative, and have the foresight and resilience to adapt to future challenges.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The psychologist Abraham Maslow once said, "every day we can step into growth with courage or retreat into safety." Given that people with a growth mindset are naturally inclined towards stepping into the unknown, observing their actions can give you the courage to follow suit. Seek out colleagues who inspire you. Aim to inspire others.</p>
<p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p>
<h3><strong>2) Be inquisitive and take risks</strong></h3>
<p dir="ltr">In the competitive world of work, the margins between sinking and swimming can feel small. To stay afloat, too many people fall back on a risk-averse way of thinking&nbsp;&mdash; a mindset that inevitably rubs off on their coworkers.</p>
<p dir="ltr">With so much change going on in society, however, playing it safe is a risk in itself. Without risk-taking, creativity and innovation are completely stifled, making it harder to propel yourself forward.&nbsp;</p>
<p dir="ltr">Failure is an inevitable part of life. When taking on challenges, you need to acknowledge that success isn&rsquo;t guaranteed. However, there is always something to learn &mdash; even if that means going back to the drawing board and changing your approach.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Ultimately, a growth-mindset culture removes the fear of failure. What is &ldquo;failure,&rdquo; after all, but a way of analysing events that have already happened? What is &ldquo;failure&rdquo; if not a chance to learn from those events?</p>
<p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p>
<h3><strong>3) Tap into your intrinsic motivators</strong></h3>
<p dir="ltr">As we have seen, a growth mindset focuses on learning and development. From an individual perspective, making the most out of learning and development depends on being able to unlock intrinsic motivation:&nbsp;an inner drive that pushes you to pursue an activity, not for external rewards, but because the action itself is gratifying.</p>
<p dir="ltr">As various studies in behavioural psychology have proven, intrinsic motivators are far more powerful than external motivators. Aside from encouraging collaboration and a higher degree of effort and long-term performance (Pinder 2011), self-motivation has been shown to be just as effective in increasing performance as external rewards (such as bonuses) in a workplace setting (Cerasoli et al. 2014).</p>
<p dir="ltr">For businesses that say they promote a growth mindset, being able to motivate employees is how they prove it. It&rsquo;s worth remembering that intrinsic motivators are highly individualised, not universal. What pushes you to thrive may hinder someone else. So how can you tap into intrinsic motivators?</p>
<p dir="ltr">The ideas of the American author Daniel Pink may provide an answer. In his 2009 book, Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us, Pink drew on research conducted by psychologists in the 1970s to outline a new framework for motivation. Pink labels this paradigm shift &ldquo;Motivation 3.0 &mdash; an upgrade from primitive survival mode (Motivation 1.0) and from the culture of reward and punishment that characterises fixed-mindset organisations (Motivation 2.0).</p>
<p dir="ltr">Motivation 3.0 rejects traditional, fixed approaches to motivation and instead encourages us to harness our intrinsic motivation &mdash; giving ourselves the tools to be self-motivated as well as the freedom to do work we are truly passionate about.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Pink argues that intrinsic motivation or self-motivation is based on three key factors:</p>
<ul>
<li dir="ltr"><strong>Autonomy</strong>&nbsp;&mdash;&nbsp;the urge to direct our own lives, to feel a sense of ownership for our work and control over our own destiny.</li>
<li dir="ltr"><strong>Mastery</strong>&nbsp;&mdash;&nbsp;the desire to get better at something that matters. This yearning to be an expert in a particular field can also be described as&nbsp;virtuosity.</li>
<li dir="ltr"><strong>Purpose</strong>&nbsp;&mdash; the drive&nbsp;to be part of something larger than ourselves&nbsp;and&nbsp;to feel that what we do is important and valued. This is often synonymous with big-picture thinking and can help you adopt a more strategic, long-term approach to your life and career.</li>
</ul>
<p dir="ltr">By focusing on being intrinsically motivated, you can encourage yourself and others to pursue these ideas of autonomy, mastery, and purpose. Doing so can increase your engagement and drive, and&nbsp;&mdash;&nbsp;most importantly&nbsp;&mdash;&nbsp;improve your sense of fulfilment at work.</p>
<p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p>
<h3><strong>4) Train yourself to be emotionally agile</strong></h3>
<p dir="ltr">A growth mindset does not just encompass the more logical or analytical aspects of our lives. Humans are emotional beings, and knowing how to manage our emotions is vital for our day-to-day health, happiness and productivity.</p>
<p dir="ltr">In her TED talk, &ldquo;The gift and power of emotional courage,&rdquo; the South African psychologist Susan David underscores the importance of emotional agility. For David, our emotions signpost our values and give us opportunities to shape our lives according to these values.</p>
<p dir="ltr">If ensuring we&rsquo;re better equipped to manage our emotions is not on our radar, perhaps it should be. According to the World Health Organisation, depression and anxiety together is the leading cause of disability globally &mdash; more than cancer or heart disease. The cost to global productivity?&nbsp;US$1 trillion per year.</p>
<p dir="ltr">In these uncertain times, too many people are unable to find strategies to cope with the winds of change. The tendency for many people is to either fall back upon rigid emotions or to deny they are struggling.&nbsp;</p>
<p dir="ltr">Emotional agility helps us deal with the rigidity of denial, which can be one of the most destructive emotions for both our work and personal lives.</p>
<p><span id="docs-internal-guid-21e16ab5-7fff-eff9-ae88-45a424697335">&nbsp;</span></p>
<div>
<div><iframe class="optanon-category-C0004" src="https://embed.ted.com/talks/lang/en/susan_david_the_gift_and_power_of_emotional_courage" width="854" height="480" frameborder="0" scrolling="no" sandbox=""></iframe></div>
</div>
<p>&nbsp;While countless parents, educational institutions and workplaces have tried to help people better deal with their emotions, the strategies employed have often had the opposite effect.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Splitting emotions into dichotomies of &ldquo;positive&rdquo; and &ldquo;negative&rdquo;, for example, only serves to accentuate the highs and lows of the corresponding emotions. David calls this way of thinking the &ldquo;tyranny of positivity.&rdquo; Indeed, research shows that emotions only become stronger when they are ignored. For our emotional responses to be constructive, we need to be analytical about our emotions. Adopting strategies that enable us to deal with our emotions in an agile manner can be truly transformative.</p>
<p dir="ltr">According to David, &ldquo;emotions are data, not directives.&rdquo; By viewing emotions, which often appear to be chaotic and hard to pin down, as analogous to something ordered like data, we can externalise an emotion when it appears.</p>
<p dir="ltr">For example, instead of confronting anger with an &ldquo;I am angry&rdquo; outlook, you can observe anger as &ldquo;I am currently experiencing an emotion like anger.&rdquo; Adopting a growth mindset separates you from the emotion &mdash; giving you scope to reflect and learn from it.</p>
<p dir="ltr">The takeaway? Emotions guide our values. By applying a growth mindset to these guiding principles, you will be more engaged and more likely to emotionally invest in your work.&nbsp;</p>
<p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>Conclusion</strong></h2>
<p dir="ltr">Apart from making us rethink intelligence and ability, arguably the defining feature of a growth mindset is perceiving challenges as&nbsp;opportunities&nbsp;rather than obstacles.&nbsp;</p>
<p dir="ltr">In this sense, a growth mindset is not just a way of thinking; it&rsquo;s a way of acting and a way of responding to external problems.</p>
<p dir="ltr">We are all faced with unique challenges on a day-to-day basis, however serious or mundane. From balancing our work and personal lives to dealing with a difficult colleague, our mindset affects both ourselves and those around us.&nbsp;</p>
<p dir="ltr">On a larger scale, the 2020 coronavirus pandemic has highlighted the life-or-death importance of ensuring we have the collective means to decisively respond to different challenges.</p>
<p dir="ltr">When facing uncertainty, accepting things is key. We can only change the things in our power. Events will pan out in ways that we can barely expect. To face the future head-on, the million-dollar question we should all ask ourselves is this:</p>
<p dir="ltr"><strong>&ldquo;What can I/we learn from this experience that can help me/us move forward?&rdquo;&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p dir="ltr">We&rsquo;ve all heard the terrible cliche &ldquo;success is a journey, not a destination.&rdquo; The problem with cliches, however, is that they are usually true. As the role models who have adopted and nurtured a growth mindset have proven, seeing yourself and others as being on journeys will help you focus on the process and not dwell on minor setbacks.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Of course, it&rsquo;s easy to fall back into fixed-mindset thinking. People are not perfect. But if you can start to take risks, experiment, and pursue your passions, innovation and growth will inevitably follow</p>

By championing lifelong learning, adaptability, and process over static abilities,  you'll set yourself up for both personal and professional growth.

Growth Mindset  - The Key to a Successful Career

<p>By designing, controlling and operating the chemical or biochemical processes and equipment that are used to turn raw materials into valuable products, process engineers play a vital role in many industries &ndash; particularly in the manufacturing sector.<br><br>Like other engineering roles, process engineering offers plenty of scope for continuing professional development and travel. Understandably, it&rsquo;s one of the most highly sought-after careers in the life sciences.&nbsp;<br><br>To aid you in your job search, we&rsquo;ve put together this process engineer job description profile exploring what it&rsquo;s like to work in this burgeoning field.</p>
<p><br><br><strong>What does a process engineer do?<br><br></strong>The role of a process engineer is to transform raw materials into valuable everyday products. They are responsible for designing, implementing, controlling and optimising industrial processes and machinery in the manufacturing industry. Within medical device and&nbsp;<span style="color: #ac145a;"><strong><a style="color: #ac145a;" href="../../../../../../blog/the-importance-of-process-engineering-in-the-pharmaceutical-industry">pharmaceutical manufacturing</a></strong></span>, these processes can also be chemical or biochemical. As such, process engineering jobs can be extremely varied.<br><br>The role is similar to that of a chemical engineer, which can often be a source of confusion for those outside the profession. While a process engineer is a type of chemical engineer, they typically focus less on chemistry and more on mathematics and physics.</p>
<p><br><br><strong>Work environment<br><br></strong>Process engineers spend most of their time in an office or laboratory environment. Engineers may also be based onsite at industrial plants, refineries, and other large-scale manufacturing locations, where they are often required to monitor and/or direct operations. Most process engineering jobs involve 9-to-5 work on a full-time basis.</p>
<p><br><strong>Responsibilities<br><br></strong>On a day-to-day basis, process engineers design processes and equipment for manufacturing, monitor equipment through regular testing, and provide strategic oversight of the processes being deployed. Other responsibilities include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Researching, designing and developing new equipment</li>
<li>Developing, configuring and optimising end-to-end industrial processes, from ideation to certification</li>
<li>Managing cost and time constraints</li>
<li>Ensuring compliance with both internal and external protocols and regulations</li>
<li>Running risk assessments of the equipment and processes being used</li>
<li>Collecting data, writing reports, and presenting findings to senior management</li>
</ul>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Role of process engineers in manufacturing<br></strong><br>In the manufacturing sector, process engineers are involved in the planning, management, coordination and control of the manufacturing process. They ensure that any products produced by the manufacturers are created in an efficient and cost-effective manner while complying with health and safety regulations and quality standards.</p>
<p>Given that process engineers tend to work in manufacturing, their responsibilities can often get conflated with that of a manufacturing engineer. To compound the matter further, certain companies employ manufacturing process engineers.</p>
<p><br><br><strong>What is the difference between a process engineer and a manufacturing engineer?</strong><br><br>The difference can be summarised by their specialisms. Process engineers are usually trained in chemical engineering and specialise in the design and optimisation of industrial processes, while manufacturing engineers are often mechanical or industrial engineers with extra training in supply chain management and operations.<br><br>These specialisms translate into the type of manufacturing each work in:</p>
<ul>
<li>Process engineers work in&nbsp;<strong>process or continuous-flow manufacturing</strong>. This involves making &ldquo;stuff&rdquo; that has to be mixed from a formula or recipe (e.g. cosmetic products, gasoline, beer, cheese, etc.).</li>
<li>Manufacturing engineers work in&nbsp;<strong>discrete manufacturing</strong>. This involves assembling &ldquo;things&rdquo; that can be counted and itemised (e.g. car components, mobile phones, microwaves, etc.).</li>
</ul>
<p>As such, their work environment differs slightly, too. Process engineers typically work in factories with equipment such as piping, pumps, valves, boilers, temperature gauges, and distillation columns, while manufacturing engineers tend to work with assembly lines, packing machines and robots.</p>
<p><br><br><strong>Can mechanical engineers work as process engineers?<br></strong><br>In a word, yes. Engineering is an extremely interdisciplinary vocation with infinite challenges, so it&rsquo;s common for process engineers and mechanical engineers to work alongside one another on the same projects. Others even accrue enough knowledge and experience to successfully change positions.<br><br>If you are a mechanical engineering graduate looking for process engineer jobs, switching specialisms will not affect your employability &mdash; as long as you know the fundamentals of engineering and can demonstrate advanced problem-solving skills to employers.</p>
<p><br><br><strong>Process engineering jobs<br></strong><br>Process engineers work in various roles across the manufacturing industries &mdash; from petrochemicals to food and drink. Other key industries include agriculture, automotive, biotechnical, material development, mining, nuclear, pharmaceutical and software development.<br><br>The following job titles are related to process engineering:</p>
<ul>
<li>Graduate process engineer</li>
<li>Process development engineer</li>
<li>Process engineer</li>
<li>Process systems engineer</li>
<li>Senior process engineer</li>
<li>Technical engineer</li>
</ul>
<p><span style="color: #ac145a;"><strong><a style="color: #ac145a;" href="../../../../../../jobs?keywords=process+engineer">Browse the latest process engineering vacancies with SRG</a></strong></span></p>
<p><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p><strong>How much do process engineers earn?<br><br></strong>The national average process engineer salary in the UK is around &pound;40,000. Starting salaries for entry-level process engineering jobs are usually in the range of &pound;20,000 to &pound;30,000, depending on factors such as industry, employer and location. Salaries can rise to &pound;60,000 with experience. Again, this depends on the level of expertise and the industry that you work in.</p>
<p><br><br><strong>How do you become a process engineer?<br><br></strong><strong>Qualifications<br></strong><br>As a minimum requirement for entry-level positions, you&rsquo;ll need a graduate (BEng) or postgraduate MEng) degree in chemical, manufacturing or industrial engineering. Some other relevant degree courses that universities offer include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Chemistry</li>
<li>Physics</li>
<li>Mathematics</li>
</ul>
<p>Because process engineering is a broad area, it helps to have an engineering degree that is tailored towards the employer. For example, if you are seeking work in Gaining a PhD in engineering or any of these fields can also make you a more attractive proposition for employers.<br><br>Likewise, getting as much work experience as possible will also stand you in good stead. Two ways to enhance your skills and employability include process engineering internships and industrial placement. Many large employers frequently offer internships (particularly in the summer months), while industrial placement schemes give students the chance to gain supplementary work experience alongside their studies.</p>
<p><br><br><strong>Process engineer skills<br><br></strong>Academic qualifications alone will not be enough for most mid- to senior-level process engineering positions. While requirements vary from company to company, the skills you&rsquo;ll need to become a process engineer include:</p>
<ul>
<li>IT and numeracy skills</li>
<li>Analytical and problem-solving skills</li>
<li>Critical thinking</li>
<li>Meticulous attention to detail</li>
<li>Industry knowledge</li>
<li>Commercial and business awareness</li>
</ul>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Chartered membership<br><br></strong>Attaining chartered process engineer accreditation from the&nbsp;<span style="color: #ac145a;"><a style="color: #ac145a;" href="https://www.icheme.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Institution of Chemical Engineers (IChemE)</a>&nbsp;</span>&ndash; the UK&rsquo;s leading professional qualifying body for chemical, biochemical and process engineers &ndash; can lead to enhanced career prospects.<br><br>If your degree is fully accredited by IChemE, you already meet the required level to become eligible for&nbsp;<span style="color: #ac145a;"><a style="color: #ac145a;" href="https://www.icheme.org/membership/membership-grades/chartered-member/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Chartered Member (MIChemE)</a>&nbsp;</span>status. If not, you&rsquo;ll need to demonstrate an advanced knowledge of chemical engineering and its applications.&nbsp;<br><br>Candidates also need to demonstrate professional experience and complete a Competence and Commitment (C&amp;C) report.</p>
<p><span style="color: #ac145a;"><strong><a style="color: #ac145a;" href="../../../../../../jobs?keywords=process+engineer">Apply for process engineering roles</a></strong></span></p>

Process engineering largely focuses on the end-to-end manufacturing of products. A relatively new discipline, process engineering supports the sustainable economic and technological development of industries across the world.

STEM Professions: Jobs as a Process Engineer

<h3>As they&rsquo;re receiving more and more applications by the day, hiring managers are increasingly turning to telephone interviews as a means of sifting through vast numbers of candidates.</h3>
<p>Although phone interviews allow candidates to get that proverbial foot in the door, they can also lure you into a false sense of security &ndash; because they lack the immediacy of a face-to-face interview and can take place in your home.<br><br>Here are&nbsp;<strong>six tips</strong>&nbsp;to help you approach them with confidence.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>1) Avoid distractions</strong></h2>
<p>Make sure you&rsquo;ve got the perfect conditions for a formal conversation. Get everyone out of the room, turn off the stereo and the TV and close the door. Ideally, use a landline instead of your mobile, just in case you lose reception. Don&rsquo;t smoke, chew gum, eat or drink (unless you&rsquo;re having a sip of water!).</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>2) Rehearse &ndash; but keep it natural</strong></h2>
<p>Practice your answers to avoid all the 'umming and ahing' and awkward silences (but jot them down in note form so that your responses during the interview are natural and coherent).</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>3) Smile!</strong></h2>
<p>It sounds strange, but smiling will automatically bring more positivity and enthusiasm to your voice. It can also be helpful to stand during the interview, as this gives your voice more energy and confidence.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>4) Take your time</strong></h2>
<p>Don&rsquo;t rush through your answers. The interviewer won&rsquo;t take anything in and you&rsquo;ll only sound nervous. Speak at a sensible pace and enunciate clearly will give you the time to think about what you&rsquo;re saying and to emphasise the important bits. Not only will your answers be clear but you&rsquo;ll also come across as professional and in control.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>5) Give short answers</strong></h2>
<p>Be concise and to the point. This is especially important when you don&rsquo;t have the visual cues to tell you the interviewer wants to interject or is just getting bored. There&rsquo;ll be more time to go into detail in the face-to-face interview.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>6) Be ready for the doubts</strong></h2>
<p>As they&rsquo;re using this initial stage to filter out any candidates that might not be suitable, the hiring manager will be perfectly comfortable highlighting any apparent differences between your experience and the requirements of the job. So you need to show them that you can adapt. If the interviewer&rsquo;s concerned that you don&rsquo;t have experience in a specific aspect of the job, reassure them that you&rsquo;re a fast learner and that you&rsquo;d be happy to do some training. Asking them what training they provide shows that you&rsquo;re willing to learn.</p>

Learn how to handle telephone interview the right way and ensure your progress to the next stage of the application process.

Preparing for a Telephone Interview

<h3>With COVID restrictions affecting our ability to travel for work, many of you will be facing a scenario in which you're asked to conduct interviews via video call instead of face to face.</h3>
<p>But for many of us, the thought of interviewing via Skype or Zoom remains just as daunting prospect as being physically in the room. To help calm your nerves and enhance your video interview toolkit, we'll walk you through the types of video interviews, offer advice on what to wear, and provide tips on important aspects such as body language and eye contact.</p>
<p>First up, it's worth running through a checklist of things you'll need to ensure things run smoothly.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>What you'll need for the video interview</strong></h2>
<ul>
<li>An internet connection with bandwidth speed of at least 1 megabits per second.</li>
<li>A laptop or desktop computer with a webcam. In some cases, a tablet or smartphone may also be an option.</li>
<li>Headphones with a built-in microphone or headphones and a separate microphone.</li>
<li>A quiet, private, and well-lit place where you won&rsquo;t be interrupted by other people, pets, or noises. Position your webcam so that you have a neutral background that&rsquo;s free from distractions. Avoid communal spaces.<br><br></li>
</ul>
<h2><strong>Live vs. pre-recorded video interviews</strong></h2>
<p>Some interviews will be live. Once connected, you&rsquo;ll be able to see and speak with an interviewer on the other end.</p>
<p>Make sure your user name is professional if you&rsquo;re using a personal Skype, Zoom, or Google account.</p>
<p>Some clients use dedicated interview platform software. In this format, the employer will give you instructions on how to join the interview. You will be prompted to answer questions and the recording will then be sent to the employer at the end of the question series.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Make sure that you&rsquo;ve closed other apps or windows on your computer that could interrupt the conversation or slow the internet connection. Set your phone to silent before you begin the conference.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>What to wear for the video interview</strong></h2>
<p>You should dress as professionally as you would for a face-to-face interview.</p>
<p>Bright colours, especially reds, yellow, orange, and pink don't look good on video. &nbsp;If you wear glasses, adjust the lighting in the room to reduce glare from your lenses.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>Positioning your camera and adjusting your body language</strong></h2>
<p>Position the camera so that you are looking up slightly and central on the screen. Eye contact is very important during an in-person interview, so you want to convey that same level of connection during a video interview. When you&rsquo;re listening, you can look back at the screen.</p>
<p>Throughout the interview, keep your mood upbeat and convey optimism with your body language.</p>
<p>In many ways, your body language should mimic a face-to-face interview: When you&rsquo;re listening, nod and smile when appropriate to communicate that you&rsquo;re giving them your full attention.</p>
<p><strong>Practice makes perfect</strong>, so run through a rehearsal of the process to help you get used to the technology and the body language of a video interview.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>On-the-day checklist</strong></h2>
<ul>
<li>Ensure that you won&rsquo;t be interrupted</li>
<li>Clear the desk space, except for a notepad and pen/pencil for you to take notes</li>
<li>Have a copy of your CV/resume and any other notes ready for you to reference</li>
<li>Set out a glass or bottle of water for yourself</li>
<li>Check that your webcam is working</li>
<li>Check that your computer audio is working</li>
<li>Close any windows, tabs, or applications on your computer that you&rsquo;re not using</li>
<li>Check your internet connection and make sure you&rsquo;re not downloading anything in the background</li>
<li>Set your phone to silent</li>
<li>Check that the background behind you is neutral and free from clutter</li>
<li>Adjust the lighting in the room to maximise visibility<br><br></li>
</ul>
<h2><strong>What to do if things go wrong</strong></h2>
<p>Despite our best intentions, life doesn't always go to plan. Here are some backup plans to have ready just in case things go awry during the interview.</p>
<h3><strong>Troubleshooting</strong></h3>
<p>Before the interview, ask the interviewer for a phone number where you can reach them if you experience technical difficulties. This will give you a trusty plan B if your video or audio stops working.</p>
<p>If noises interrupt your video interview, apologise for the interruption and ask for a few moments until the noise has subsided.</p>
<p>If someone enters the room unexpectedly, apologise&nbsp;to the interviewer, ask for a few moments, mute your microphone, and turn off your camera. Then step away to swiftly deal with the interruption.</p>
<p>Finally, you should conclude by thanking the interviewer for their time.</p>
<p>Good luck!</p>

Video interviews are now the norm, so knowing how to approach them is a vital skill for any job hunter. By following a few small steps, you'll give yourself the confidence to succeed.

Prepare for a Video Call Interview

<h3 dir="ltr">To stay ahead of the competition, STEM organisations are recognising that calling on the support of an experienced managed service provider (MSP) can help them fulfil their human capital needs.&nbsp;</h3>
<p><span id="docs-internal-guid-258ed1fa-7fff-55bc-67c1-b56b76956111">&nbsp;</span></p>
<p dir="ltr">In today&rsquo;s hypercompetitive and increasingly complex STEM recruitment market, having an agile eye on future talent is critical.&nbsp;</p>
<p><span id="docs-internal-guid-258ed1fa-7fff-55bc-67c1-b56b76956111">&nbsp;</span></p>
<p dir="ltr">In our previous blog, we explored&nbsp;<a href="https://www.srgtalent.com/blog/why-strategic-workforce-planning-is-so-important">the benefits of one such core area of people strategy: workforce planning</a>. With rapid technological change and economic uncertainty exerting a huge impact on top-level decision-making, lending strategic weight to the workforce of the future is a must for any business.&nbsp;</p>
<p><span id="docs-internal-guid-258ed1fa-7fff-55bc-67c1-b56b76956111">&nbsp;</span></p>
<p dir="ltr">By investing in workforce planning, you&rsquo;ll be investing in improved business outcomes &mdash; from bridging the skills gap to reducing absenteeism. Here&rsquo;s how SRG&rsquo;s dedicated MSP team can help you streamline your workforce and adequately prepare for a range of future scenarios.</p>
<p><span id="docs-internal-guid-258ed1fa-7fff-55bc-67c1-b56b76956111">&nbsp;</span></p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><strong>1) Industry-leading expertise</strong></h3>
<p><span id="docs-internal-guid-258ed1fa-7fff-55bc-67c1-b56b76956111">&nbsp;</span></p>
<p dir="ltr">From the outset, we&rsquo;ll assign a single point of contact for all temporary worker requirements. This individual will be one of our STEM talent management experts and will manage the process with the support of a dedicated team.</p>
<p><span id="docs-internal-guid-258ed1fa-7fff-55bc-67c1-b56b76956111">&nbsp;</span></p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><strong>2) End-to-end optimisation</strong></h3>
<p><span id="docs-internal-guid-258ed1fa-7fff-55bc-67c1-b56b76956111">&nbsp;</span></p>
<p dir="ltr">We&rsquo;ll set up a streamlined process that's underpinned by our bespoke technology platform and geared towards improving workforce efficiencies.</p>
<p><span id="docs-internal-guid-258ed1fa-7fff-55bc-67c1-b56b76956111">&nbsp;</span></p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><strong>3) Total workforce oversight</strong></h3>
<p><span id="docs-internal-guid-258ed1fa-7fff-55bc-67c1-b56b76956111">&nbsp;</span></p>
<p dir="ltr">We&rsquo;ll provide full visibility of temporary worker headcount, spend, tenure, quality, and supplier performance &mdash; with your full input and agreement on key metrics from the get-go.</p>
<p><span id="docs-internal-guid-258ed1fa-7fff-55bc-67c1-b56b76956111">&nbsp;</span></p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><strong>4) Competitive rates</strong></h3>
<p><span id="docs-internal-guid-258ed1fa-7fff-55bc-67c1-b56b76956111">&nbsp;</span></p>
<p dir="ltr">We&rsquo;ll provide competitive agency rates, pre-agreed temp and perm fees, and access to the latest market information to ensure worker pay rates are in line with the market.</p>
<p><span id="docs-internal-guid-258ed1fa-7fff-55bc-67c1-b56b76956111">&nbsp;</span></p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><strong>5) Access to the best candidates</strong></h3>
<p><span id="docs-internal-guid-258ed1fa-7fff-55bc-67c1-b56b76956111">&nbsp;</span></p>
<p dir="ltr">You need candidates that are ready to fill open positions. With SRG, you&rsquo;ll gain access to one of the largest and most reliable talent pipelines in STEM.&nbsp;</p>
<p><span id="docs-internal-guid-258ed1fa-7fff-55bc-67c1-b56b76956111">&nbsp;</span></p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><strong>6) Full compliance</strong></h3>
<p><span id="docs-internal-guid-258ed1fa-7fff-55bc-67c1-b56b76956111">&nbsp;</span></p>
<p dir="ltr">You&rsquo;ll have assurance that all temporary workers meet vetting requirements and comply with workplace and legislative regulations such as IR35, GDPR, and AWR.</p>
<p><span id="docs-internal-guid-258ed1fa-7fff-55bc-67c1-b56b76956111">&nbsp;</span></p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><strong>7) Supplier management</strong></h3>
<p><span id="docs-internal-guid-258ed1fa-7fff-55bc-67c1-b56b76956111">&nbsp;</span></p>
<p dir="ltr">You&rsquo;ll benefit from effective and proactive supplier management through consistent terms of engagement, performance measurement, coaching, and SLA/KPI management.&nbsp;</p>
<p><span id="docs-internal-guid-258ed1fa-7fff-55bc-67c1-b56b76956111">&nbsp;</span></p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><strong>8) Frequent progress reports</strong></h3>
<p><span id="docs-internal-guid-258ed1fa-7fff-55bc-67c1-b56b76956111">&nbsp;</span></p>
<p dir="ltr">You&rsquo;ll be kept in the loop via an intuitive project dashboard as well as regular, face-to-face meetings with the SRG account manager.</p>
<p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p>

Find out SRG’s dedicated MSP team can help you streamline business processes and build a dynamic workforce.

How SRG can help you turbocharge your workforce planning strategy

<h3>The saying "nothing worth having comes easy" has a lot of merit to it. Although there will always be instances in life where chance and sheer luck lead to exciting opportunities, the majority of worthwhile ventures are due to a mixture of hard work, focus, and ambition.</h3>
<p>Being productive is not just about getting things done; it&rsquo;s a chance to show colleagues and prospective bosses that you&rsquo;re reliable and worth investing in. An incredibly successful and busy employer, for instance, isn&rsquo;t going to hire someone who can&rsquo;t make their business run as efficiently as possible.<br><br>In this guide, we'll look at how to keep productivity at a constant level and how to take your own initiative for the benefit of both career and personal satisfaction. Let&rsquo;s live to work, not work to live.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>1) Be proactive, not just reactive</strong></h2>
<p>You have a choice. You can go into work every day and do the bare minimum, complete the tasks you&rsquo;ve been given by your boss, reply to emails, answer the phone, have lunch, play games on your phone in the toilet, get through and go home. And that&rsquo;s fine. Sort of. You will have just about done your job, but will that kind of routine get you promoted? Will it get you noticed as a rising star? Or have you earmarked as &rsquo;one to watch&rsquo;? It&rsquo;s doubtful. Anyone who has become truly successful, well paid and respected, no matter what industry they work in, has always done more than they were asked. They have used their initiative and found ways to make their boss&rsquo; life easier.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>2)&nbsp;<em>Do</em>&nbsp;sweat the small stuff</strong></h2>
<p>In every job, there are simple yet essential daily tasks that can build up and get out of control if left unattended to tackle the bigger, possibly more interesting tasks. Get the basics done quickly, thoroughly and efficiently to create time in your schedule for more ambitious projects and to be more pro-active.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>3) Get to know what makes your boss tick</strong></h2>
<p>The best, most useful employees learn to form a great working relationship with their boss, to the point where they can sense when he or she is in a great mood and is therefore open to being approached (or being asked for a raise!). By the same token, a good employee will be sensitive to those days when the boss is suffering from inevitable work stresses or facing personal challenges.</p>
<p>At these times, you should know how to work in a way that eases the pressure off of them a bit. Your boss shouldn&rsquo;t have to ask. It&rsquo;s up to you to hone your people skills, to be empathetic and to gauge when things can be heaped on and when things are simply best left.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>4) Learn to take a break when needed</strong></h2>
<p>Being hardworking is the most obvious way to be productive at work but if you&rsquo;re exhausted and burnt out from weeks of late nights and early starts, you&rsquo;re not going to be useful to anyone. Make sure you&rsquo;re getting enough sleep, drinking lots of water, eating healthily and enjoying some downtime every day. Exercise is a great way to de-stress and refresh your mind, so take walks on your lunch breaks or head to the gym. Get away from your desk every now and again to rest your eyes and stretch your legs.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>5) Regularly recharge your batteries</strong></h2>
<p>The best way of bouncing back from something negative is to immediately do something you enjoy. So, in the immediate aftermath of&nbsp;<a href="https://srgtalent-cm-scprod.impellam.com/career-advice/job-interview-tips/how-to-respond-to-a-job-interview-rejection-email">rejection</a>, socialise with friends or do something you love. Fill yourself with positive energy that you can then use to renew your job search.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>6. Aim to work somewhere you enjoy, for someone you respect</strong></h2>
<p>This is a tricky one because what you think is your dream job could turn out to be a nightmare and you have no control over how your boss acts. However, if you make it your aim to find an interesting role you enjoy for a boss whose work ethos you respect then you are going to work harder.</p>

Improve your workplace productivity and become a role model for colleagues by following these easy-to-implement steps.

6 effective ways to be more productive at work

<h3>Competency-based interviews are now more or less the norm. But there's no need to view competency questions as something different and scary. By their very nature, they&rsquo;re an opportunity to really&nbsp;<em>demonstrate</em>&nbsp;to interviewers what you&rsquo;re good at, not just&nbsp;<em>say&nbsp;</em>what you are. Here are&nbsp;<strong>four tips</strong>&nbsp;to help you pass the interview with flying colours.<br><br></h3>
<h2><strong>1) Write down examples beforehand</strong></h2>
<p>For each skill on your CV and each requirement on the job description, prepare an example to show how you&rsquo;ve demonstrated that particular attribute. The interviewer is looking for practical examples of how you&rsquo;ve performed tasks or displayed behaviour that is relevant to the job.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>2) Don&rsquo;t just talk about your most recent job</strong></h2>
<p>They don&rsquo;t just want to know about your most recent role &ndash; they want to know about you, about the way you deal with things. Don&rsquo;t be afraid to use examples from a previous job, education or even extra-curricular activities. You&rsquo;d be surprised at how often a situation from your everyday life &ndash; juggling different responsibilities, dealing with conflict, using social media to promote a particular cause &ndash; can demonstrate how you handle things at work.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>3) Even when you&rsquo;re not asked for an example, give an example</strong></h2>
<p>If the interviewer asks what you&rsquo;re good at or what you love doing, don&rsquo;t just answer the question &ndash; tell them about a time when you showed how good you are. Make your skills come alive with real-life illustrations. Anyone can claim to be something they&rsquo;re not. Talking coherently and persuasively about a time when you&rsquo;ve needed to use one of those skills is a lot more convincing.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>4) Structure your examples</strong></h2>
<h2>&nbsp;</h2>
<p>Acronyms can be tedious &ndash; but this one actually works! The &lsquo;STAR&rsquo; technique (Situation, Task, Action, Result) can be a really useful way of planning your answers. Tell the interviewer what situation you found yourself in, what task you had to perform, what action you took and what the result was. Even if you decide not to present your answers this way, it will at least help you think about them in a structured manner so that you can talk about them coherently.&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>If you need more advice on finding a new role,&nbsp;speak to one of our consultants&nbsp;to see how we can help you.</strong></p>

Four easy-to-follow steps for STEM professionals preparing for competency-based interviews.

How to Prepare for Competency Based Questions in Your Interview

<h3>A lot of effort goes into applying and interviewing for a job, so receiving a "no" at the end of the process can be a real setback.</h3>
<p>However, rejection is something we'll all likely experience, and going through it presents us with the opportunity to learn and to grow.<br><br>These&nbsp;<strong>six tips</strong>&nbsp;look at how you can come back from a job rejection wiser, more informed, and raring to go for the next interview.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h3><strong>1) Get the most out of feedback</strong></h3>
<p>If the rejection email is brief or formulaic, ask for more detailed feedback from the employer and/or recruiter. Assuming you&rsquo;re going to apply for similar jobs, this feedback is vital information. It might help you to address certain details in your CV or to prepare more effectively for your next interview.<br><br>While it's often our impulse to take things to heart, try not to get offended and strive to use your feedback both objectively and constructively. As the Roman emperor and philosopher Marcus Aurelius once said,&nbsp;<em>"Choose not to be harmed&nbsp;<span id="docs-internal-guid-ff667ef4-7fff-b72c-5a66-6552e4bbf21d">&ndash;</span>&nbsp;and you won't feel harmed. Don't feel harmed&nbsp;<span id="docs-internal-guid-ff667ef4-7fff-b72c-5a66-6552e4bbf21d">&ndash;</span>&nbsp;and you haven't been."</em></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h3><strong>2) Refine your search</strong></h3>
<p>Sometimes you don&rsquo;t get the job simply because competition is especially high, but sometimes not getting a job is an indication that you&rsquo;re not quite aiming at the right area or level. This is nothing to panic about &ndash; in fact, it&rsquo;s a positive thing. Refine your search accordingly and make sure that you apply for roles that match your skills and experience perfectly.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h3><strong>3) Fill your skill gaps</strong></h3>
<p>If the roles you want necessitate something you don&rsquo;t have, see if you can acquire this missing skill or qualification. In some instances, this may mean undertaking training courses or paying for qualifications, but going the extra mile can make a real difference for competitive jobs and your willingness to develop your knowledge will be attractive to employers. You'll also feel more confident in your abilities, so expanding your skill set is a real win-win.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h3><strong>4) Do something fun</strong></h3>
<p>The best way of bouncing back from something negative is to immediately do something you enjoy. So, in the immediate aftermath of rejection, socialise with friends or do something you love. Fill yourself with positive energy, which you can then use to renew your job search.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h3><strong>5) Stay positive</strong></h3>
<p>It sounds obvious&nbsp;<span id="docs-internal-guid-ff667ef4-7fff-b72c-5a66-6552e4bbf21d">&ndash;</span>&nbsp;even cliched&nbsp;<span id="docs-internal-guid-ff667ef4-7fff-b72c-5a66-6552e4bbf21d">&ndash;</span>&nbsp;but in interviews, positivity is absolutely essential. If you can&rsquo;t get over a previous rejection, you might appear a little defensive or negative at your next interview, so take some time to recover and then wipe the slate clean. After all, the only job that matters when you're on the job hunt is the next one.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h3><strong>6) Switch your focus to the next job</strong></h3>
<p>We know, getting rejected at the final hurdle of the interview process can feel like a real kick in the teeth&nbsp;<span id="docs-internal-guid-ff667ef4-7fff-b72c-5a66-6552e4bbf21d">&ndash;</span>&nbsp;particularly during these testing times.&nbsp;<br><br>However, by following the previous five tips and honing in on some inspiration, you'll be able to move forward and feel more motivated than ever in your job search. And with STEM professionals currently in high demand across a range of sectors, it won't be long until you find the role that's right for you.</p>

While rejection is always tough in whatever context, learning how to handle interview rejection will help you become stronger and more energised -- giving you the resilience to succeed.

How to Respond to Job Interview Rejection

<p>Your CV is a window of opportunity to sell yourself and your potential; understanding how to write a scientific CV can sometimes add more complexity to the process.</p>
<p>Unfortunately, however, getting yourself and your CV noticed isn't easy. You could be the best possible candidate, with all the skills and potential you could ever need for a certain role, but if you are not able to ensure you stand out during the application phase, it could count for nothing.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Employers are known to spend minimal time reading CVs. In fact, statistics show&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://theundercoverrecruiter.com/resume-dos-donts/#:~:text=Recruiters%20spend%206%20seconds%20looking,for%20an%20unprofessional%20email%20address." target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">recruiters typically spend an average of just 6 seconds</a></strong> examining a CV before determining if the applicant is worthy of an interview. <a href="https://www.neurond.com/blog/ai-resume-screening">What's more, many are using Artificial Intelligence that has been developed to tackle a large percentage of CV and application screening</a>, adding another dynamic to the application process.</p>
<p>This presents many challenges for an applicant. Will their CV stand out in the pile? Will it even filter through the AI stage and into the hands of a recruiter?&nbsp;</p>
<p>Therefore, it is vital to condense education, skills, and experience, whilst plucking out the most valuable and important parts for the role being applied for, to ensure a CV and application isn't overlooked.&nbsp;</p>
<p>This article helps explore the key elements of a successful CV in the scientific industry to help you attain your ideal role in STEM.</p>
<p>Read on to discover:&nbsp;</p>
<ul>
<li>How to write an effective CV for science roles</li>
<li>What to include in your CV</li>
<li>Expert tips and recommendations</li>
</ul>
<h2>How to write an effective CV for science roles</h2>
<p>Firstly, before you even set to work on creating a CV, it is important to throughly review the job listing for the role you're looking to apply for. Whilst it is good practice to have a quality CV template to base all applications on, one that contains all the standard information required for any application, it is important to ensure that you are able to edit and adapt your CV and its detail so that it matches up to a specifc role and its requirements.&nbsp;</p>
<p>When it is time to write a CV, bear in mind that there is no specific length that is considered correct. The quality of what is included within a CV is more important than quantity, so naturally the length should depend on your grades, abilities, and experience and how you portray them effectively.</p>
<p>Presentation is key when it comes to constructing an effective scientific CV. Stick to a traditional format, and steer away from being overly creative. For example, avoid using colours and abstract designs - your CV must be concise and to the point. Use Microsoft Word or PDF documents to format your CV clearly, check your spelling and grammar (mutliple times!) throughout, and make sure you do not refer to yourself in third person at any point.&nbsp;</p>
<p>And if you're still not sure of what to include or how to format your CV, there are plenty of Scientific CV examples available online to use as a guide.</p>
<h2>What to include in your CV</h2>
<p>Your CV is the first opportunity you get to introduce yourself to a prospective employer and your chance to tell them why you&rsquo;d be a suitable applicant. It is often their first impression of you, provide your experience in reverse chronological order, leaving no gaps and be sure to emphasise the skills you hold that are relevant to the job.</p>
<p>It is vital to showcase both your skills and your personal qualities, including your reliability, dependability, and dedication to the role.&nbsp;</p>
<p>To successfully qualify for a shortlist, your CV must include all the data needed for the company to assess whether you&rsquo;re a good fit for the role. Make sure you include the techniques and duties you use on a day-to-day basis. Bullet points are your best friend to make the CV clear and concise.</p>
<p>Use keywords that relevant to the role being applied for and its requirements, such as experiment analysis, machine learning, statistical modelling, data visualisation, quantification, data analytics, CLP/GHS, Reach, HPLC, Cell culture, LCMS. Don&rsquo;t overcomplicate your techniques by writing out acronyms. For example, everyone who will be reading your CV knows what HPLC is so there is no need to put &ldquo;high performance liquid chromatography&rdquo;. It may even hinder you because it could be missed in key word searches.</p>
<p>Remember to include clear personal information such as your address, mobile number, and email address. It is also useful to add your eligibility to work in the UK. Make sure your CV is focused more on your significant skills, achievements and experiences related to the job you&rsquo;re applying for, rather than simply listing your duties. You could even include a short line about personal hobbies or volunteering to help your CV stand out, especially if you are a graduate or in the early stages of your career.&nbsp;</p>
<p>And don't forget that many recruitment agencies and employers use AI and database systems called <a href="https://www.oracle.com/human-capital-management/recruiting/what-is-applicant-tracking-system/">Applicant Tracking System&rsquo;s (ATS)</a> to filter through their prospective employees, to save time and create more of an even playing field when searching for relevant experience. ATS systems scan the relevant information from a CV, such a qualifications and experience, and then produce a shortlist of potential prospects for human review and assessment. So it is important to be aware of such systems and <a href="https://www.forbes.com/sites/dianehamilton/2024/11/25/how-to-get-your-rsum-past-artificial-intelligence-ai-screening/">how you can make yourself stand out to AI</a>.</p>
<p>Overall, be clear and concise, consider using bullet points to break up points, include relevant keywords and information, and be careful not to exaggerate.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Science CV buzzwords</h2>
<p>&lsquo;CV buzzwords&rsquo; are keywords that you can use to improve your chances of being noticed by recruiters for specific roles. They can include acronyms like ABPI (Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry), or adjectives like &lsquo;negotiated&rsquo;.&nbsp;</p>
<p>In scientific recruitment, it&rsquo;s important to note that adjective buzzwords are seldom used to prioritise candidates. Generally, recruiters base their candidate search on the techniques that are specific for the particular position.&nbsp;</p>
<p>In order to build a successful scientific CV buzzword strategy, you should highlight the key techniques you have experience with that align with particular positions. It&rsquo;s also important not to unnecessarily expand acronyms that are commonplace like HPLC or ELISA, as the acronyms will be used by the recruiter to search for candidates, instead of manually typing out &ldquo;high performance liquid chromatography&rdquo; or &ldquo;enzyme linked immunosorbent assay&rdquo;.</p>
<h2>5 expert tips and recommendations</h2>
<p>If you take anything away from this article, make sure it is these five Scientific CV writing tips at the very least. These simple, easy-to-follow steps are must-haves in any CV and application:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Research the role you&rsquo;re applying for</strong> - include keywords the recruiter has used in the job description that are applicable to you.</li>
<li><strong>Know the industry and area you&rsquo;re interested in</strong> - take the time to understand and contextualise the fields your ideal employer works within. What major trends are shaping the sector?</li>
<li><strong>Avoid repeating yourself</strong> - repetition of words/ phrases can suggest you don&rsquo;t have a good deal to say, which can translate to a lack of knowledge and expertise.</li>
<li><strong>Showcase your technical experience</strong> - take the space to highlight your technical experience, and include brief details of any published academic papers.</li>
<li><strong>Accurate spelling and grammar always makes a good first impression</strong> - Always be sure to re-read your CV and make the most of spellcheck before sending it off; even better, ask a friend to proofread it for you.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>

Your CV is a window of opportunity to sell yourself and your potential; understanding how to write a scientific CV can sometimes add more complexity to the process. As employers are known to spend minimal time reading CVs, it is important to condense your education, skills, and experience, whilst plucking out the most valuable and important parts for the role you’re applying for.

How to Write a Scientific CV

<p>When embarking on a career journey, there are numerous paths to consider, each designed to equip you with the necessary skills, knowledge, and experience to excel in your desired role and industry.</p>
<p>Apprenticeships are one such path, providing an opportunity to continue learning and development, whilst also gaining practical work experience and a vital understanding of employment and working life.</p>
<h2>What Are Apprenticeships?</h2>
<p>Apprenticeships are structured, work-based training programs that combine on-the-job learning with theoretical studies and essential work-life experiences.&nbsp;</p>
<p>They aim to equip individuals with the skills and knowledge required to succeed in specific roles, industries, and professions. Typically offered in collaboration with companies, talent experts such as SRG, and educational or training providers, apprenticeships enable people to work toward specific qualifications, licenses, or certifications that will help them start and build a career in their chosen field.</p>
<p>As these programs are tailored to meet industry needs, apprentices can be confident that their training will be relevant to their long-term career goals.</p>
<h2>How long are Apprenticeships?</h2>
<p>According to the experts behind&nbsp;<a href="https://nationalapprenticeshipweek.co.uk/apprenticeships-2/">National Apprenticeship Week, a celebration of apprenticeships, apprentices and the impact they have on all industries</a>, apprenticeships last for a minimum of 12 months.</p>
<p>However, the duration of a specific apprenticeship depends on the type, depth, and detail of the program, as well as the level of education, certification, or qualification being pursued.</p>
<h2>Who Can Apply for Apprenticeships?</h2>
<p>In short, anyone! While apprenticeships have traditionally been an excellent option for students transitioning into employment, even individuals who have been employed before can benefit from the skills and opportunities provided by apprenticeships.&nbsp;</p>
<p>So, whether you&rsquo;re a school or university leaver, or someone seeking a career change or simply an opportunity to learn something new, apprenticeships have a lot to offer, to a lot of people.</p>
<h2>The Benefits of Apprenticeships</h2>
<p>Presenting an abundance of benefits, from practical experiences to opportunities to earn a living whilst gaining vital new skills for your chosen career, there is so much value and potential in apprenticeships.&nbsp;</p>
<p>If you&rsquo;re still not convinced, here are some of the key benefits that may showcase apprenticeships as a viable option for your career growth:</p>
<h3>Practical Experience&nbsp;</h3>
<p>Apprentices gain hands-on experience in real-world settings, working alongside professionals in their industry. This practical knowledge is invaluable and often gives apprentices a competitive edge in the job market.</p>
<h3>Earn While You Learn</h3>
<p>Unlike traditional education routes such as college or university, apprenticeships allow individuals to earn a wage while they learn on the job, alleviating the financial burden of student debt.</p>
<h3>Industry-Recognised Qualifications</h3>
<p>Upon completing an apprenticeship, individuals receive qualifications that are highly regarded by employers, opening doors to various career opportunities.</p>
<h3>Career Advancement</h3>
<p>Many apprentices secure long-term employment with their training providers or other industry employers, providing a clear pathway for career progression.</p>
<h3>Personal and Professional Growth&nbsp;</h3>
<p>Apprenticeships enhance not only technical skills but also personal and professional attributes such as communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, which are essential for success in any career.</p>
<h3>Networking Opportunities</h3>
<p>During an apprenticeship, individuals can build a network of professional contacts, which can be valuable for future job opportunities and career advancement.</p>

Whether you’re a school or university leaver, or someone looking for new skills and experiences for the next step in your career journey, apprenticeships could offer everything you need to grow and develop, and much more. 

Understanding Apprenticeships and Their Benefits 

<p>The recruitment industry has come a long way from the days of paper CVs and fax machines, as it continues to accelerate alongside expanding businesses in an increasingly global, and interconnected world.</p>
<p>Today,&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www2.deloitte.com/content/dam/Deloitte/global/Documents/gx-the-great-reimagination-report.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">nearly three quarters of CEOs&nbsp;</a></strong>say that labour, and skills shortages pose the greatest disruption to business strategy over the next 12 months. The &lsquo;Great Resignation&rsquo; of 2021 saw<strong><a href="https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2022-05-24/almost-one-fifth-of-workers-set-to-leave-their-jobs-in-next-12-months" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">&nbsp;47.4 employees in the U.S alone&nbsp;</a></strong>leave their organisations for new roles, while in the U.K 85% of senior leaders reported significant business disruption.&nbsp;</p>
<p>In the STEM sector specifically,<strong><a href="../../../../../../insights/guides-and-reports/2022-global-science-employment-report" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">&nbsp;our global survey</a></strong>&nbsp;reveals that the after-effects of the great resignation continue to echo, as 35% of UK and US STEM employees, and 39% of Europe STEM employees say they plan to leave their organisations this year.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p>In this article, I reflect back on the history and evolution of the recruitment market and look ahead to the priorities leaders should consider to futureproof their talent pipelines.<br><br>Read on to explore:</p>
<ul>
<li>Key drivers of change in the history of recruitment</li>
<li>How the COVID-19 pandemic catalysed tech in recruitment</li>
<li>What is next for the recruitment industry</li>
</ul>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Key drivers of change in the history of recruitment</h2>
<h3>From recruiters working for candidates, to recruiters working for clients</h3>
<p>The late 1970s saw a shift away from recruiters working directly for, and receiving payments from candidates, to working and receiving payments from the client.&nbsp;</p>
<p>From being approached by recruitment agencies to harnessing them for selective requirements, organisations were able to expand their workforces at pace and fuel economic growth.&nbsp;<br>Recruitment organisations now had to approach candidates directly, and &lsquo;sell&rsquo; their client&rsquo;s roles. At this time, this was largely achieved by salary rate, as well as the company&rsquo;s general reputation. Roles were mainly advertised in newspapers, and recruitment consultants relied on telephone consultations and in-person interviews to filter candidates.&nbsp;<br><br></p>
<h3>The history of online recruitment</h3>
<p>While the internet was initially invented in 1983, it wasn&rsquo;t until 1995 that it became well established in wider society, and business. Netscape Navigator, the most popular internet browser at the time, marked a&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.scienceandmediamuseum.org.uk/objects-and-stories/short-history-internet#:~:text=Consequently%2C%20the%20number%20of%20websites,around%2010%20million%20global%20users." target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">10 million global user base in 1995</a></strong>, making it a rich source for an accessible network of talent.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The late 1990s consequently saw the first online jobs being posted, marking the beginnings of e-recruitment, which has since become essential to modern-day recruitment<br><br></p>
<h3>Evolution of diversity and inclusion</h3>
<p>When considering the history of the UK, the essential role diverse groups have played over the course of the UK industrial history is irrefutable.</p>
<p>While the world wars notoriously accelerated the number of women in industry, factory, pastoral and agricultural work has always had a core reliance on female labour, and international trade and businesses have long been inherent to the British economy.&nbsp;</p>
<p>It wasn&rsquo;t until 1975 however that the sex discrimination act was passed, while ethnic groups had to wait another year; until 1976, before the race relations act was passed &ndash; both acts protected the groups from unfair treatment in the workplace.</p>
<p>Despite these advances, it wasn&rsquo;t until 1995 that the disability discrimination act was passed, and it was only recently, in 2010, that the equality act was passed, making it officially illegal to discriminate against employees in the workplace based on their:</p>
<ul>
<li>Age</li>
<li>Disability</li>
<li>Gender reassignment</li>
<li>Marriage and civil partnership</li>
<li>Pregnancy and maternity</li>
<li>Race</li>
<li>Religion or belief</li>
<li>Sex/Gender</li>
<li>Sexual orientation.<br><br></li>
</ul>
<h3>The rise of employee value propositions</h3>
<p>Employee value propositions or EVPs have been steadily growing in importance alongside expanding skills gaps.</p>
<p>Whereas in the past organisations could rely on the reputation of their brand name, or for newer companies, advertise confidential opportunities, rising competition in the talent market has increased&nbsp;<strong><a href="../../../../../../blog/how-to-develop-a-successful-employer-branding-strategy" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">the importance of a strong EVP</a></strong>.&nbsp;</p>
<p>In a business climate where companies are now investing in their own people, and actively discussing payrises, career development and actualising their culture, people aren&rsquo;t always as open to leaving their current positions as they once were, clients face a growing need to focus on EVP to attract passive candidates.</p>
<p>According to our&nbsp;<strong><a href="../../../../../../insights/guides-and-reports/2022-global-science-employment-report" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">2022 Global Science Employment Report</a></strong>, just under a third of STEM employees prioritise roles that offer a good work-life balance, while over half of respondents would also find employees appealing if they offered an attractive salary and benefits alongside stimulating and challenging work.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Key elements of a strong EVP include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Work-life balance</li>
<li>Representative and actionable DE&amp;I strategies</li>
<li>Fair pay structures and reviews</li>
<li>Career development paths</li>
<li>A strong company culture and purpose</li>
</ul>
<h3>The convenience of recruitment platforms</h3>
<p>While e-recruitment initially surged in the 1990s, it wasn&rsquo;t until the mid-2000s, 2008 to be precise, that the LinkedIn Recruiter tool was launched.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The convenience of the platform, in tandem with its accessibility to global candidate pools has led to a surge in stand-alone recruiters with little experience in the market.&nbsp;</p>
<p>While online recruitment platforms are often harnessed by organisations, and other stand-alone recruitment entrepreneurs in a more nuanced way, &lsquo;head-hunters&rsquo; who used LinkedIn to spam candidates and clients alike are a modern issue that can reduce people&rsquo;s confidence in the effectiveness of the modern recruitment market.</p>
<p>When used by a seasoned recruitment professional, e-recruitment platforms like LinkedIn Recruiter can activate access to diverse talent pools, and exceptional expertise across the world, while enhancing client reputation.<br><br><br><br></p>
<h2>How the COVID-19 pandemic catalysed tech in recruitment</h2>
<p>The events of the COVID-19 pandemic and the effects of lock-down reverberated across the world of business, while some organisations shrank, others rapidly expanded, incentivising recruitment organisations to find new, more digitally enabled ways to access talent and connect them to the right organisations fast.</p>
<p>In the world of STEM, where COVID-19 vaccines and diagnostics were key to unravelling the trials of the pandemic, digital recruitment was essential to hire the right candidates at volume. Today, in an increasingly candidate-led and fast-paced market, the digital recruitment trend seems here to stay.</p>
<p>At SRG, we&rsquo;ve harnessed digital recruitment with many of our global pharmaceutical and diagnostic clients, for whom we have utilised&nbsp;<strong><a href="../../../../../../blog/the-3-key-principles-of-an-effective-hiring-strategy-in-stem" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">digital tools like video-interview technology to effectively hire at pace&nbsp;</a></strong>while preserving organisational culture and driving diversity.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The wider impact of the digitalisation trend in recruitment continues to shape the market today, and has resulted in the following fundamental shifts:</p>
<ol>
<li><strong>Improved access to diverse talent:&nbsp;</strong>Disabled, socio-economically disadvantaged, and other diverse groups are less likely to have the means to travel to multiple interviews. Digital interviews offer a way to connect with and hire diverse talent in a realistic, and effective way.</li>
<li><strong>Location has no limits:</strong>&nbsp;Candidates can interview easily before they re-locate for positions requiring in-office or laboratory work. Meanwhile for remote, or global organisations seeking talent in a new country, scouting and hiring talent has become far easier.</li>
<li><strong>The pace of recruitment has accelerated:&nbsp;</strong>Candidates can complete multiple interviews in one day, accelerating the pace at which companies must structure their own interview process, and react to ensure the best talent is hired.</li>
</ol>
<h2>What is next for the recruitment industry?</h2>
<p>The recruitment industry has undergone several transformations over the last half century, evolving from what was once a manual and in-person led field, to a dynamic, digital and fast-paced industry.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Successfully building a talent strategy for tomorrow relies on ensuring that your recruitment partner can effectively engage with you as a client, and that candidates are effectively committed to your organisation throughout the recruitment process.</p>
<p>Today, and in the future of the recruitment, the onus will be on so much more than the job alone, people want to know about the benefits, the culture, career development, diversity and inclusion rather than just a job description and salary.</p>
<p>It&rsquo;s important to recognise that the shift towards a candidate led market has been largely unprecedented. Organisations need to move past the mind-set of merely increasing salaries, and broaden their perspective to actionably consider how they can create the right working environment for employees, and the right candidate process for their prospective new hires.</p>
<h2>Looking for expert recruitment support?</h2>
<p>SRG have over 30 years of experience in supporting recruitment in organisations across STEM. Our talented consultants are on hand to help you with any of your recruitment challenges.</p>

Delve into the history of recruitment and look forward into what trends the sector can expect in the future

Recruitment: What's Changed and What's Next?

<article class="blog-article">
<div class="blog-article-body">
<p>Over the &lsquo;Great Resignation&rsquo; of 2021,&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.srgtalent.com/blog/the-history-of-recruitment-whats-changed-and-whats-next)%20(https://www.cipd.co.uk/news-views/cipd-voice/Issue-33/great-resignation-fact-fiction#gref" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">85% of UK senior leaders reported significant business disruption</a></strong>, as job-to-job moves reached&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.cipd.co.uk/news-views/cipd-voice/Issue-33/great-resignation-fact-fiction#gref" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">a record high of 3.2% across the UK.&nbsp;</a></strong>While many employees held off on moving roles during the pandemic, creating what the CIPD calls a &lsquo;<strong><a href="https://www.cipd.co.uk/news-views/cipd-voice/Issue-33/great-resignation-fact-fiction#gref" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">delayed churn</a></strong>&rsquo; in 2021, surveys show that the &lsquo;Great Resignation&rsquo; was in part driven by employee feelings of dissatisfaction at work.<br><br>According to a&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.pwc.co.uk/press-room/press-releases/pwc-workforce-survey-20221.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">2021 report by PwC</a></strong>, 18% of employees said they were likely to change roles over 2022, with 32% saying they were moderately likely to. The key drivers for their motivations for change were pay, wanting fulfilment, and wanting to be themselves in the workplace.</p>
<p>As employee motivations continue to shift, the rising importance of impactful workplace benefits is fast becoming critical to successful talent attraction and retention. And that means giving employees more control and customisation over their benefits. In today&rsquo;s competitive climate, do flexible benefits cut it? Or is the time right to advance the model further to activate real personalisation?</p>
<p>Read on to find out:</p>
<ul>
<li>How benefits influence candidate attraction and employee retention&nbsp;</li>
<li>The difference between personalised and flexible benefits</li>
<li>How to action a personalised benefits plan</li>
</ul>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2>How benefits influence candidate attraction and employee retention</h2>
<p><br>Employees value work environments where they&rsquo;re appreciated, listened to, and rewarded in the way they want to be rewarded.&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wtwco.com/en-CH/Insights/trending-topics/global-benefits-attitudes-survey-2022" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Research&nbsp;</a></strong>shows that benefits packages that meet the needs of employees and that authentically improve their experiences drive a<a href="https://www.wtwco.com/en-CH/Insights/trending-topics/global-benefits-attitudes-survey-2022" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">&nbsp;<strong>78% retention rate</strong></a>, compared to just 41% when benefits do not meet employee needs.&nbsp;</p>
<p>As workplaces become increasingly flexible in recognition of the disruptions faced over the course of the pandemic, it&rsquo;s clear that a blanket approach for everyone does not work.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Our own research into STEM employee priorities in the workplace is a prime example of the mix of priorities employees have in the workplace.<strong><a href="https://www.srgtalent.com/insights/guides-and-reports/2022-global-science-employment-report" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">&nbsp;Our 2022 Global Science Employment Report&nbsp;</a></strong>revealed that while a good-work life balance was cited as the most important factor for a workplace by the highest number of people, it was also ranked as the least important factor by the most respondents in the UK and Europe.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Meanwhile,&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.srgtalent.com/insights/guides-and-reports/2022-global-science-employment-report" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">over half of all respondents&nbsp;</a></strong>across the UK, Europe and the US would find STEM employers appealing if they offered an attractive salary, meaningful benefits, and stimulating and challenging work.</p>
<p>Taking this into consideration, it&rsquo;s surprising that&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wtw-healthandbenefits.co.uk/hr-resources/advice-and-top-tips/bts-2021-guide" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">merely 27% of employers have benefits that address the needs of their workforce</a></strong>, and&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.wtw-healthandbenefits.co.uk/hr-resources/advice-and-top-tips/bts-2021-guide" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">only 26% offer flexibility in benefit choice.</a></strong>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Representative, meaningful benefits have a key role to play in not only personalising the employee experience, but also in creating a workplace environment that people want to be part of - thereby establishing a competitive edge over other businesses seeking expert talent in your industry.<br><br></p>
<h2>The difference between personalised and flexible benefits</h2>
<p>So, what are flexible benefits?</p>
<p>According to the<strong><a href="https://www.gov.uk/hmrc-internal-manuals/employment-income-manual/eim01140" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">&nbsp;HMRC</a></strong>, flexible benefits, or flexi benefits, generally refer to instances where employees can choose their benefits from a given menu. Flexible employee benefits schemes often include benefits such as company cars, childcare provision, private health insurance, additional pension contributions, and even additional annual holiday.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Personalised benefits, on the other hand, build on the foundations of flexible benefits and refer to allowing employees to annually select the benefits that most align with their goals, needs and motivations on an ongoing basis. Personalised benefits also involve working together with employees to introduce more nuanced benefits that meet the specific needs of employees within the workforce; for example, offering a four-day week with longer hours, or part-time working to improve work-life balance.<br>How to action a personalised benefits plan<br><br>A personalised benefits plan means assessing employee&rsquo;s individual needs and priorities. For example, managers could ask employees on an annual basis about their needs in the workplace and what benefits would make a difference. Once the needs of the employee has been expressed, managers can then work with the employee to prioritise and action the benefits mentioned.<br>The critical factor in successfully implementing a personalised benefits plan is the regularity of assessment.</p>
<p>It&rsquo;s important to make sure employees have the opportunity to reassess their situation;&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.srgtalent.com/blog/why-money-doesnt-motivate-employees" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">what has been important last year, may not be a priority this year.</a></strong>&nbsp;From pension plans, to planning for children and requiring maternity cover, or improving salaries for a mortgage to buy a new house, it&rsquo;s important to provide employees with the space to acquire the benefits they need to improve their employee experience.&nbsp;</p>
<p>In my experience, not feeling heard or appreciated is one of the key reasons talented employees leave a company. Creating opportunities to instil a sense of belonging and providing meaningful opportunities to tailor the employee experience are powerful ways to combat employee turnover, all while strengthening your candidate attraction strategy.<br><br></p>
<h2>What is Search by SRG?</h2>
<p><br><strong><a href="https://www.srgtalent.com/clients/our-services/search-by-srg" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Search by SRG</a></strong>&nbsp;is a market-leading executive and technical recruitment service, bringing precision and trust to specialist hiring across the life sciences industry.&nbsp;</p>
<p>We offer a consultative service for our clients, where we directly address wider recruitment challenges and forge reparative solutions to improve candidate attraction and power employee retention.&nbsp;<br>Whether you&rsquo;re looking for support with executive search, niche hiring, market campaigns for team building, high-end interim hiring, or market insights and reporting, our dedicated consultants are on hand to secure the success of your hiring strategy.</p>
<p><strong>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;<a class="button" href="mailto:solutions@srgtalent.com">Click here to get in touch</a></strong><br><br><strong>About the author:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.srgtalent.com/clients/our-services/search-by-srg/biotech-start-up-secures-director-with-bioinformatics-recruiter" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Janne Bate&nbsp;</a></strong>specialises in resourcing top talent within AI, Machine Learning and Bioinformatics across the Life Science industry. She partners with companies across the globe with a focus on the European market.<strong><a href="https://uk.linkedin.com/in/jannebatesrgtalent" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">&nbsp;Connect with Janne on Linkedin&nbsp;</a></strong><br><br><strong>Specialist Areas:</strong>&nbsp;AI<br><br><strong>The typical roles Janne recruits include from C suite down:</strong>&nbsp;Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Computational Chemistry, Machine Learning, Data Science, Biological Systems Specialists</p>
</div>
</article>
<section class="narrative-panel-section using-rich-text     ">
<div class="l-container">
<div class="image"><img src="https://www.srgtalent.com/-/media/srg/1---new-website/final/narrative-panel/skills-shortage-whitepaper-narrative-panel-image/candidate-attraction-narrative-panel-image/candidate-attraction-narrative-panel-image.png?h=500&amp;w=353&amp;la=en&amp;hash=EC6AF386FFD8352D73286AE29EA367FD" alt="title page for the candidate and attraction guide, the text reads srg 2022 candidate attraction and retention guide"></div>
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<div class="component-header">Global Guide to Candidate Attraction and Retention</div>
<p>Download SRG's latest report into the global trends, challenges and opportunities surrounding candidate attraction and retention in STEM</p>
<p><a class="" title="" href="https://www.srgtalent.com/insights/guides-and-reports/2022-global-candidate-attraction-and-retention-guide" target="_blank" rel="noopener">DOWNLOAD</a></p>
</div>
</div>
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Are flexible benefits enough in today's talent market to attract and retain top employees? Find out more from Janne Bate, Principal Consultant at Search by SRG

Are Flexible Benefits at Work Enough to Retain Talent?

<p><strong><a href="https://www.darkdaily.com/2022/04/06/medical-and-non-medical-laboratories-in-uk-and-europe-hit-by-rising-costs-and-supply-shortages-due-to-high-demand-for-testing-services/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">76% of laboratory leaders face rising costs in laboratory operations</a></strong>, alongside increased levels of burnout in their wider workforce.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Recent research reveals that&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/hpm.3460" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">medical laboratory professionals experienced a 73.3% greater prevalence of burnout</a></strong>&nbsp;compared to other healthcare workers over the pandemic &ndash; including doctors, nurses, and occupational therapists.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Unlike physicians and other medical professionals with decision authority,&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/hpm.3460" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">laboratory professionals are likely to have less skill discretion&nbsp;</a></strong>and overall lower dimensions of control, which can reduce job satisfaction &ndash; a key protective factor to burnout in the lab.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Continuous improvement unravels the causes behind burnout in the lab by optimising roles and processes. By equipping employees with a proactive, rather than passive role in the laboratory, continuous improvement enables employees to boost the efficiency of their work processes, solve problems, and capture new opportunities &ndash; curbing burnout while enabling your laboratory to&nbsp;<strong><a href="../../../../../../blog/overcoming-resource-constraints-in-laboratory-workflow-management" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">improve cost efficiency.</a></strong></p>
<p>Read on to find out:</p>
<ul>
<li>What is continuous improvement</li>
<li>3 benefits of continuous improvement in the laboratory</li>
<li>How continuous improvement unlocks innovation in the laboratory</li>
</ul>
<h2>What is continuous improvement?</h2>
<p>Continuous improvement refers to a set of processes built to optimise a laboratory over time. In most cases, continuous improvement is implemented through a continuous improvement pipeline to help prioritise and action changes over a set period.&nbsp;</p>
<p>There&rsquo;s no shortage of processes and techniques underlying continuous improvement, making it challenging to identify the best methods to apply to a laboratory environment.<br>While lean methodology was initially developed for manufacturing environments, its principles are universally applicable across industries and is now used in an array of settings and industries &ndash; from computer science labs to clinical laboratories.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The lean method to continuous improvement drives efficiency across the overall laboratory by optimising speed, cost, and resource allocation. The overall goal behind this continuous improvement initiative is to holistically activate laboratory efficiency by improving processes to eliminate time deficits, limit waste, and maximise workforce potential.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>What are the benefits of continuous improvement in the laboratory</h2>
<h3>1.&nbsp;Improved job satisfaction</h3>
<p>Job satisfaction can help mitigate burnout in the laboratory and is crucial to employee retention.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Continuous improvement processes like lean methodology are built to maximise employee potential &ndash; part of this is ensuring that every role is as efficient as possible.&nbsp;</p>
<p>This means looking at whether a trained scientist is spending more of their time preparing assays than pursuing their core responsibilities, as well as whether lab technicians are over-burdened and require improved resource allocation.&nbsp;</p>
<p>This process holistically boosts job satisfaction by activating meaningful changes that limit burnout and improve the everyday work experience of employees across the laboratory.</p>
<h3>2.&nbsp;Better work-life balance</h3>
<p>Work-life balance was cited as the most important factor for scientific candidates in our&nbsp;<strong><a href="../../../../../../insights/guides-and-reports/2022-global-science-employment-report">latest global STEM survey.&nbsp;</a></strong></p>
<p>Continuous improvement directly shapes roles and responsibilities, with the core goal of improving efficiency. In doing so, continuous improvement can help provide employees with improved work life balance and drive better workforce retention rates for the laboratory as a whole.</p>
<h3>3.&nbsp;Reduced operational costs</h3>
<p>The efficiencies brought about by continuous improvement fundamentally reduce costs &ndash; whether it&rsquo;s streamlining processes to improve turnaround time, returning time to core science through improved resource allocation, or improving people&rsquo;s roles to reduce burnout and drive retention, as continuous improvement is implemented, costs invariably reduce.</p>
<p>At Synergy, we&rsquo;ve supported our clients with this first-hand,<strong><a href="../../../../../../clients/case-studies/cignpost-diagnostics">&nbsp;working with Cignpost Diagnostics</a></strong>, a leading health and diagnostics company, over the 2020 pandemic.</p>
<p>We implemented continuous improvement processes across laboratory operations, and lowered the complexity of processes to improve organisational agility. We redesigned processes and supported the restructure of skills requirements. Our work with Cignpost accelerated turnaround times, lowered costs, and improved quality through considered and optimised continuous improvement initiatives.&nbsp; \</p>
<h2>How continuous improvement unlocks innovation in the laboratory</h2>
<p>The prospect of innovation inspires scientists across the globe to pursue careers in industry, where they can proactively contribute to scientific development and progress.</p>
<p>However, while scientists are often hired with the intention to improve innovative capacity in the organisation, workload, administrative tasks, and manual duties in the laboratory can curb the potential of experts and limit progress.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Continuous improvement plays a fundamental role in powering innovation by optimising roles, processes, and methods in the lab to ensure that high-performance workers and expert scientists have the time they need to dedicate to their research without the burden of extra tasks on the side.&nbsp;</p>
<p>This can accelerate innovation while streamlining development phases and improving turn-around times, overall enabling your organisation to benefit from a more sustainable pipeline and a happier, more engaged workforce where skill sets are effectively deployed.</p>

Get actionable advice to help you harness the potential of continuous improvement with Kris Randell, Head of Continuous Improvement at Synergy

The Purpose and Benefits of Continuous Improvement in the Laboratory

<p>Alison Jones, Operations Director at SRG provides her perspective on forging a lasting, and successful career in recruitment, and reflects on key insights and learnings.<br><br>Read on to learn more about Alison&rsquo;s journey, as she reveals expert advice on creating an evergreen recruitment strategy and assessing your next recruitment partner.</p>
<h2>How did you start out in recruitment?</h2>
<p>Like many others in recruitment, I fell into the industry. I was never academically inclined and left education at 16 to start work. After a few months on an apprenticeship, I gained the commercial skills and workplace qualifications I needed to feel confident in applying for permanent roles.</p>
<p>By this time, I was 17 and my focus was on working in a people-oriented position. I applied for a permanent role as an HR assistant, not realising it was through an agency. When I arrived for my face-to-face meeting, the role had already been filled; but they said they were impressed and asked whether I would like to work for them in sales...&nbsp; the rest is history.</p>
<p>Up until 2013 I worked across the general recruitment sector, until I took a role in an engineering search business out a motivation to specialise in a specific sector. While the company was misaligned for me from a values perspective, it paved my way in STEM recruitment through to SRG, where I was appointed as an Operational Leader almost 10 years ago.<br><br></p>
<h2>What are some of your biggest achievements from the last 35 years in recruitment?&nbsp;</h2>
<p>Goodness me, there&rsquo;s been a few&hellip; but seeing my teams flourish is probably the thing that gives me the most pleasure.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p>I&rsquo;ve lost count of the times I&rsquo;ve taken a team from infancy to being a much larger and high performing unit. Some of my current mangers joined me with little to no experience in recruitment and are now considered industry experts and have large teams of their own.&nbsp; &nbsp; Seeing a career develop that way is a huge buzz for me.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p>I&rsquo;m also pleased to have made a seamless transition from generalist recruitment to STEM winning Manager of the year in my first full year in STEM back in 2015.&nbsp;&nbsp;<br>I also find being able to contribute to the wider scientific industry very fulfilling. Seeing our new partners grow with talent we place and make advancements to improve lives or engineer new products is so significant and feels like a real achievement.&nbsp;<br><br></p>
<h2>What are some of your most significant learnings from your time in recruitment?</h2>
<p>From a leadership perspective I work for my team, not the other way round.&nbsp; My role is to support them to be the best they can be.&nbsp; Their role is to support their teams the same way.&nbsp; Your people come first, do right by them, they look after your customers and everyone wins.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p>All voices have value, and it&rsquo;s important to make time for quieter team members to contribute. Some of the best ideas I&rsquo;ve heard are from people who are perceived to be quieter in meetings. Make space for those people to contribute.&nbsp;</p>
<p>It&rsquo;s integral to listen to your newcomers. New starters come into a business without any conventions and can offer brilliant observations and ideas to transform processes and make things more efficient.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Most significantly, put the candidate at the heart of everything that you do - this crucial to the whole recruitment process.&nbsp;<br><br></p>
<h2>Do you have any evergreen recruitment advice for the current recruitment climate?</h2>
<p>In my experience, recruiters who build lasting meaningful relationships with candidates and customers never have to cold call. The candidate journey is everything &ndash; without a loyal candidate base we have no product and nothing to offer our partners.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Establishing those relationships with candidates, and clients alike can offer a solid foundation for a sustainable recruitment strategy and accelerate results.</p>
<p>On a similar note, showing empathy is another essential technique. Listening to both partners, and candidates, responding to people in a timely way and doing what you say you&rsquo;re going to do is critical to establishing trust in business. Remember there&rsquo;s a person or people with their own hopes and dreams at the heart of everything we do.<br><br></p>
<h2>What questions would recommend asking a recruitment partner, before investing?</h2>
<p>Some key questions I would ask any recruitment partner based on my expertise in the field would be:</p>
<ol>
<li>How do you engage with candidates and what is the candidate journey?</li>
<li>Can you provide case studies and evidence of relevant sector experience along with customer testimonials?</li>
<li>How well do they understand your business?</li>
<li>What are their fill statistics in the roles you&rsquo;re looking to hire?</li>
<li>What value added services do they offer?</li>
<li>What market insights can they provide?</li>
<li>&nbsp;When was the last time they sought and applied feedback from their own teams?</li>
</ol>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Find out more about working with SRG</h2>
<p>At SRG, our data-driven approach to recruitment means we offer measurable and impactful recruitment outcomes for businesses across STEM.<br><br>As a specialist recruitment organisation operating across the wider STEM industries, we have the expertise and flexibility to provide strategic and bespoke solutions to effectively streamline and optimise how our clients hire by powering solutions like:&nbsp;</p>
<ul>
<li>MSP and contingent recruitment</li>
<li>RPO and permanent recruitment</li>
<li>Executive and technical hiring services</li>
<li>Bespoke solutions</li>
<li>Consultancy recruitment services</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>About the author:</strong>&nbsp;Alison joined SRG in 2014 as an operational leader, having worked in Impellam since 2008.&nbsp; Building on an already outstanding career, in 2020 she became Director for UK Chemicals, UK Managed Delivery, Northern Life Science and Scotland.<br>A total of 35 years industry experience has honed her skill and drive to offer customers the very best service. This is coupled with 25 years spent developing high performing teams to become award winning leaders in their field, something which remains at the heart of Alison&rsquo;s position.&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://uk.linkedin.com/in/alison-jones-4496b116" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Click here to connect with Alison on LinkedIn.</a></strong></p>

Alison Jones, Operations Director at SRG provides her perspective on forging a lasting, and successful career in recruitment, and reflects on key insights and learnings.

Alison Jones: Reflections and Learnings from a 35 Year Recruitment Career

<p>Want to accelerate your C-Suite job search? You're not alone.</p>
<p>As we emerge from the pandemic and &lsquo;the great resignation&rsquo; where&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.mckinsey.com/business-functions/people-and-organizational-performance/our-insights/great-attrition-or-great-attraction-the-choice-is-yours" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">over 19 million workers left their roles</a></strong>, and a further&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.mckinsey.com/business-functions/people-and-organizational-performance/our-insights/great-attrition-or-great-attraction-the-choice-is-yours" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">40% of the workforce are still seeking change</a>,</strong>&nbsp;employees are fast becoming candidates and are making their way through to the world of recruitment where talent mobility trends are driving more, and better opportunities for senior professionals</p>
<p>In this competitive, fast-paced landscape, the success of your C-Suite job search will rely on how well you can translate and align your professional history with your ambitions to get where you want to be. However, for executive leaders who may have complex routes to the C-suite, or are even passively scouted for the roles they&rsquo;re interested in, leveraging the talent market to make the best job selection can be challenging.&nbsp;</p>
<p>This article will explore some of the actionable steps you can take to select the right job in the C-suite.</p>
<p><strong>Read on to find out:&nbsp;</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>How to leverage your potential as a senior candidate</li>
<li>How to ask impactful questions in an interview</li>
<li>The importance of transparency</li>
</ul>
<h2>How to leverage your potential as a senior candidate</h2>
<p>As global priorities shift after COVID, organisations around the world are re-prioritising and generating new roles across the C-suite to strengthen their sustainability and promote their recovery.&nbsp;</p>
<p>In a<strong><a href="https://www.ibm.com/thought-leadership/institute-business-value/report/ceo" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">&nbsp;survey of 3,000 global CEOs from IBM</a></strong>, Chief Technology Officers (CTOs) were rated as the most critical role for business continuity, followed by Chief Operating Officer and Chief Financial Officer. A further survey of 5,000 Chief Technology Officers reveals that&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.ibm.com/thought-leadership/institute-business-value/c-suite-study/cto" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">29% of current CTOs expect their next role to be CEO.</a></strong>&nbsp;</p>
<p>In this climate of change and transformation, it&rsquo;s vital to thoroughly understand your own role, abilities, and skills, and how these fit into both emerging and established roles. While you&rsquo;ll likely have plenty of experience within your current role, solely applying to roles with the same title that you have can inadvertently silo your efforts. What&rsquo;s more, even if a role does have the same title, responsibilities will invariably change between companies.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Look for opportunities to diversify and draw on your breadth of experience in new ways to position yourself competitively within the market. Working with a recruitment consultant can be a powerful way of doing this, as they&rsquo;ll have up-to-date and extensive knowledge on how applicable your skills are across a range of executive positions, including newly created ones.</p>
<h2>How to ask impactful questions in an interview</h2>
<p>The right culture is crucial, and miscommunication is a key hurdle to finding the right workplace.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://press.careerbuilder.com/2017-12-07-Nearly-Three-in-Four-Employers-Affected-by-a-Bad-Hire-According-to-a-Recent-CareerBuilder-Survey" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">46% of &lsquo;mis-hired&rsquo; employees want to leave because of a toxic work culture</a></strong>, while<strong><a href="https://press.careerbuilder.com/2017-12-07-Nearly-Three-in-Four-Employers-Affected-by-a-Bad-Hire-According-to-a-Recent-CareerBuilder-Survey" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">&nbsp;89% of employers</a></strong>&nbsp;say that &lsquo;mis-hired&rsquo; employees leave because of poor emotional intelligence and motivation.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p>Overcoming this rift relies on establishing exactly how aligned your cultural values and work styles are with your prospective organisation from the beginning of the application process. The right questions are key to this process.&nbsp;</p>
<p>While any interview should be a two-way evaluation process, this principle takes extra presence in executive-level interviews, where leadership and business acumen are essential to the role.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Thorough and nuanced research is essential for your questions to be suitably detailed, and appropriate. Take the time to understand the company&rsquo;s current position in the market, challenges, and financial performance, and ask appropriate questions to support your decision-making process. Recruitment consultants can support with this stage by providing foundational information on the organisation&rsquo;s position in the market, as well as suggesting <strong><a href="https://www.srgtalent.com/blog/how-to-prepare-for-senior-level-interviews---6-key-strategies-for-stem-leaders" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">potentially fruitful avenues of enquiry in the interview</a></strong>.</p>
<p><strong>It&rsquo;s important to ask questions that strengthen your understanding of:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>How the company operates</li>
<li>What the company culture looks like, and how it&rsquo;s actively reinforced</li>
<li>What the overall business pathway is, and whether it aligns with your own ambitions</li>
<li>Aim to get a good understanding of the board&rsquo;s expectations, challenges, and how they measure success</li>
</ul>
<p>As well as preparing your own questions, you should be prepared to discuss your leadership style, how you get the most out of your team, and how you can help contribute and build on their company culture. You could also consider what is currently missing from the company and how you could help fill the gap, as well as details on the types of decisions you have made in the past, along with outcomes and lessons learned.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<h2>The importance of transparency</h2>
<p>Transparency is a key indicator of reliability and trustworthiness and is something both yourself, and your prospective organisation should exhibit. For the organisation, transparency may come across in how they describe the overall recruitment process, and the means they take to reduce bias. Additionally, transparency can also come across in the description of the role and responsibilities in the interview.&nbsp;</p>
<p>For you as a candidate, transparency in your availability, capability, and skill set, as well as your motivations to move, are all important factors to discuss to support the success of your next role.&nbsp;<br>If you receive another offer or are still in the interview stages with other organisations when you receive your primary offer, it&rsquo;s vital that you communicate your stance in a professional and clear way.</p>
<p>Maintaining this transparency can help reinforce your reliability, and if you do end up taking another position, ensure that any relationships established over the interview process are not sullied in the same way they would be if you abruptly declined the offer.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Recruitment consultants can help support your transparency across the interview process by acting as a buffer between you and the organisation, enabling you to communicate in the most effective way possible.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Looking for your next opportunity in the C-suite?</h2>
<p>SRG&rsquo;s specialist executive search team, Search by SRG, provide leading support to executive-level and mid-senior-level niche technical candidates across the recruitment process. We can help you to realise your ambitions across the scientific industries.</p>
<p>Your future awaits and SRG will help take you there and beyond.</p>

In this article, Hannah Mason, Principal Resourcer at Search by SRG, explores some key strategies to attract retain and empower C-Suite level employees in your organisation today.

How To Attract Top Talent in the C Suite

<p>Compared to 2022, &nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.fiercebiotech.com/biotech/q1-layoffs-87-22-big-pharma-layoffs-are-just-housekeeping-and-which-roles-are-most-likely" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">87% more biopharmas laid off staff&nbsp;</a></strong>in just the first quarter of 2023.</p>
<p>This has led to a large amount of experienced biotechnology professionals returning to the job market, heightening competition and the importance of a well-considered job search strategy.<br><br>While the biotechnology market is still turbulent, it remains fundamental to driving the UK government&rsquo;s life science strategy and is a key growth area to the overall economy.&nbsp;<br><br>Over 2023, biotechnology organisations stand to benefit from&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/news/government-commits-up-to-35-billion-to-future-of-tech-and-science" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">R&amp;D tax reliefs to improve cost-efficiencies</a></strong>, as well as&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/news/mhra-to-streamline-clinical-trial-approvals-in-biggest-overhaul-of-trial-regulation-in-20-years" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">newly revised clinical trial regulations</a></strong>&nbsp;which are set to reframe the UK as a location of choice for global biotechnology organisations and investors.<br><br>In this article, I&rsquo;ll explore 3 key ways biotechnology professionals can leverage their experience to drive better career outcomes through the biotech industry&rsquo;s period of transformation this year.<br><br>Read on to learn more about:<br><br></p>
<ul>
<li>The importance of specialisation</li>
<li>Managing the shift back to on-site work</li>
<li>How to stay ahead of the curve as a candidate</li>
</ul>
<h2>The importance of specialisation</h2>
<p>While ongoing investment challenges are making it harder for biotech businesses to fund new research,<strong><a href="https://www.rbccm.com/en/gib/biopharma/episode/biotech-outlook-2023-small-is-the-new-big" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">&nbsp;patents on several blockbuster drugs are set to expire in 2023.</a></strong>&nbsp;This creates the dual issue of both balancing innovation with controlling costs; spurring leaders to<strong><a href="https://www.fiercebiotech.com/biotech/q1-layoffs-87-22-big-pharma-layoffs-are-just-housekeeping-and-which-roles-are-most-likely" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">&nbsp;de-prioritise early-stage drug discovery</a></strong>&nbsp;in preference of investing in getting products that are almost fully developed to market.<br><br>To accomplish this, biotechnology research teams need specialised talent to fuel progress fast in specific research projects.&nbsp;<br><br>Tapping into this as a candidate means identifying exactly what sort of specialism you&rsquo;re interested in. Then, highlight specific experience that you have that aligns to role requirements and overall industry trends.<br><br>Working with an experienced recruiter who can support and link you with the opportunities that best align with your professional history can help accelerate this process.&nbsp;<br><br>As organisations across biotech become leaner and more streamlined, recruitment consultants can help feedback wider therapeutic trends and help link you with a company that meets your specialist ability.&nbsp;<br><br><br>Managing the shift back to onsite work</p>
<p><strong><br></strong><strong><a href="../../../../../../blog/why-stem-candidates-are-looking-for-a-new-job" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Our latest survey revealed that 14% of scientific candidates</a></strong>&nbsp;are looking for a new role to find a &lsquo;flexible working&rsquo; environment.<br><br>Post-COVID, flexible working has become increasingly important to scientific professionals, even in more on-site-based positions. However, in many cases this can prove challenging across biotech, particularly for laboratory-based roles and in start-ups or smaller biotech organisations where in-person collaboration is vital in smaller teams.&nbsp;<br><br>Finding a job in today&rsquo;s job market where you&rsquo;re likely to be competing with a large number of experienced professionals due to the layoffs means staying flexible in terms of on-site work.<br><br>However, while many employers are looking for full-time on-site employees, others are opening up opportunities to adapt working hours to improve work-life balance &ndash; negotiating this through the interview process and in collaboration with an experienced recruiter can help ensure that the working environment you receive suits you as much as possible.<br><br></p>
<h2>How to stay ahead of the curve as a candidate</h2>
<p><br>Staying ahead of the competition and navigating the ever-changing biotech environment means investing in<strong><a href="../../../../../../blog/how-to-make-your-linkedin-profile-stand-out-as-a-scientist" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">&nbsp;networking and building up your online presence&nbsp;</a></strong>as well as proactively tailoring your development in well-funded therapeutic areas.<br><br><br><strong><a href="https://www.ppd.com/blog/six-predictions-biopharma-biotech-industries-2023/#:~:text=Our%20survey%20revealed%20that%20hematology,immunology%2Frheumatology%20(38%25)." target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">According to Thermofisher Scientific</a></strong>, the top 5 therapeutic areas in 2023&rsquo;s development pipelines are:<br><br></p>
<ol>
<li>Hematology</li>
<li>Oncology</li>
<li>Rare diseases</li>
<li>Immunology</li>
<li>Rheumatology</li>
</ol>
<p>Building a network as a candidate in today&rsquo;s business world is heavily linked with<strong><a href="../../../../../../blog/how-to-make-your-linkedin-profile-stand-out-as-a-scientist" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">&nbsp;establishing an online presence on platforms like LinkedIn.</a></strong><br><br>Having very few connections on LinkedIn can make it harder for recruiters to find your profile, due to the way searching works via LinkedIn Recruiter. It&rsquo;s important to try to build a network of co-workers past and present. This could include researchers, collaborators, mentors, people who were on your course at university, and even friends.&nbsp;<br><br>You don&rsquo;t necessarily need to add hundreds of people immediately, especially if you&rsquo;re just starting out in your career, but slowly building this up as your career progresses can ensure you stay linked with opportunities and trends as they emerge.&nbsp;<br><br>As you build this network, you can ask colleagues, managers, clients or even academic supervisors to write you a recommendation. While recommendations aren&rsquo;t essential, they can boost your credibility to employers. You can send people a message asking for a LinkedIn recommendation on the &ldquo;Recommendations&rdquo; section of your LinkedIn profile. When asking for these I&rsquo;d be mindful not to pressure or pester people. It&rsquo;s also important to note that if you ask your current managers for recommendations, they may suspect that you&rsquo;re looking for other work.<br><br></p>
<h2>Find your next role in biotech with SRG</h2>
<p>SRG have been connecting talented science professionals with rewarding careers across the biotech industry for the past 30 years. Our talented recruitment consultants can help you meet your potential, and find your next opportunity.</p>

Rise above the competition and get your next job in Biotech with expert guidance from Ben Brown, Regional Sales Manager at SRG, as he explores the best ways to navigate, and thrive through the increase in industry layoffs as a candidate.

How to Get a Job in Biotech in 2023

<p>In a skills short market, the importance of communication in recruitment has never been so business critical.<br><br><strong><a href="../../../../../../blog/the-history-of-recruitment-whats-changed-and-whats-next" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Just under three quarters of global CEOs</a></strong>&nbsp;say that labour and skills shortages are the greatest hurdles to progressing their business strategy over the next 12 months.&nbsp;<br><br>Meanwhile, the increased cost of living in the UK continues to drive more employees to seek career and salary progression in other roles &ndash;&nbsp;&nbsp;<strong><a href="../../../../../../insights/guides-and-reports/2022-global-science-employment-report" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">SRG's research&nbsp;</a></strong>shows that 35% of UK and US STEM employees and 39% of European STEM employees say they plan to leave their organisation this year.&nbsp;<br><br>Developing a strong candidate attraction strategy in today&rsquo;s skills scarce, the candidate-driven market will rely heavily on effective communication to streamline applications, keep candidates engaged, and drive success.&nbsp;<br><br>Read on to learn more about:<br><br></p>
<ul>
<li>Why candidate experience matters</li>
<li>How to improve candidate retention</li>
<li>How Search by SRG can help</li>
</ul>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Why does candidate experience matter?</h2>
<p><strong><a href="../../../../../../blog/how-to-develop-a-successful-employer-branding-strategy" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">78% of job candidates</a>&nbsp;</strong>say the candidate experience is a key indicator of how a company values its employees.<br><br>Recruitment projects are often fuelled by urgency, particularly in clinical and medical affairs positions where the absence of a key employee can lead to exacerbated timelines and heightening costs.<br><br>However,&nbsp;<strong><a href="../../../../../../blog/how-to-develop-a-successful-employer-branding-strategy" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">employer brand</a></strong>&nbsp;and the candidate experience play a core part in futureproofing access to talent and driving better financial results.&nbsp;<strong><a href="../../../../../../blog/how-to-develop-a-successful-employer-branding-strategy" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">96% of companies</a></strong>&nbsp;believe that employer brand and reputation can positively or negatively impact revenue, depending on its level of success.&nbsp;<br><br>This means that organisations that know how to communicate their employer brand and employer value proposition (EVP) stand to gain not only more candidates, but also candidates that are aligned to, and inspired by their vision.&nbsp;<br><br>Strong communication is a core element of a successful candidate experience and brand identity.&nbsp;<br><br><strong><a href="https://www.thebalancemoney.com/must-employers-tell-applicants-why-they-weren-t-hired-1919151#:~:text=%22And%20while%20subjective%2C%20of%20those,apply%20again%20for%20another%20job.%22">52% of candidates</a></strong>&nbsp;who receive regular feedback and communication through the hiring process are more likely to:<br><br></p>
<ol>
<li>Apply to another role at the organisation</li>
<li>Refer other professionals to the organisation</li>
<li>Make or influence purchases when applicable<br><br></li>
</ol>
<h2>How to improve candidate retention</h2>
<p>When SRG surveyed our scientific candidate community, we found that<strong><a href="../../../../../../blog/how-to-find-a-job-in-stem" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">&nbsp;57% of respondents</a></strong>&nbsp;felt that not receiving feedback after a job interview was the most demotivating factor in their job search &ndash; and demotivated candidates seldom stick around.<br><br><strong><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/real-cost-bad-hiring-decision-pharmaceutical-industry-vlad?trk=public_profile_article_view" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Research</a></strong>&nbsp;suggests that a lack of cultural fit is a major driver behind candidate turnover. 37% of mis-hired respondents left their position as the role did not match the interview, or the job listing. An additional 33% left due to a lack of clear expectations for the role.<br><br>These barriers to candidate and employee retention are rooted in an inefficient model of communication.<br><br>In the competitive world of recruitment, consistent and clear communication can be pivotal in ensuring that candidates are actively invested in, and motivated, to pursue the opportunities you offer and stay in your organisation once they&rsquo;re on board.<br><br></p>
<h3>3 keys to enhancing candidate retention</h3>
<p><strong><br>1. Build a compelling EVP</strong><br><br><br>An employee value proposition (EVP) showcases the value or benefits your workplace can offer to prospective candidates to encourage applicants, and retain employees. Developing a compelling EVP relies on relaying this information across your hiring strategy and embedding it across your communications with candidates.<br><br><br><strong><a href="../../../../../../blog/how-to-develop-a-successful-employer-branding-strategy" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">When candidates view an EVP as attractive</a></strong>, a business can reduce the compensation premium by 50% and achieve a 50% deeper reach into the labour market. Businesses that effectively deliver on their EVP can also decrease annual employee turnover by just under 70% and increase new hire commitment by nearly 30%. Investing in an EVP makes business sense.<br><br><br>Given the importance of employer branding in the modern talent market, having a robust EVP makes it easier for businesses to attract and retain the best people.&nbsp;</p>
<p><br>Don&rsquo;t just focus on the positives; focus on what makes your company unique. And make sure to constantly optimise your EVP &mdash; as the world of work changes, so too should the benefits offered to employees.<br><br><br>EVPs can include benefits such as:<br><br><br>&bull; Opportunities for professional development (e.g. a training budget)<br>&bull; A thriving culture<br>&bull; A strong work-life balance<br>&bull; Employee initiatives (e.g. a cycle-to-work scheme)<br>&bull; The holiday allowance<br>&bull; Perks such as weekly yoga or gym discounts<br>&bull; Charity work<br>&bull; Increase referral rates<br>&bull; Increase the offer-acceptance rate (OAR).<br><br><strong><br>2. Improve time to hire</strong><br><br><br>In 2021,&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.gartner.com/en/newsroom/press-releases/2022-02-23-gartner-survey-finds-only-nineteen-percent-of-hr-leaders-are-prepared-to-address-a-shortage-of-critical-talent" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">the average time to hire increased by 18%</a></strong>, adding on another 2 weeks to the overall hiring process.&nbsp;<br><br><br>For executive candidates in particular, delays in recruitment can be indicative of poor management and add doubt to joining an organisation. Meanwhile, this additional time to hire can have major effects on organisations seeking executive support, driving lost productivity, and increased turnover risks from existing staff who may be under strain from recruiting workloads.&nbsp;<br><br><br>Leaders can bridge the time-to-hire gap by working with an established executive hiring team to attract, source, recruit, and onboard executive talent at pace.&nbsp;<br><br><br>Doing this can increase efficiencies and resource access, enabling faster and more streamlined employee journeys.&nbsp;<br><br><br>What&rsquo;s more,<strong><a href="../../../../../../clients/our-services/search-by-srg" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">&nbsp;executive recruitment services</a></strong>&nbsp;can activate access to technology-driven recruitment to widen candidate access. This can include psychometric assessments, as well as mobile recruiting application technology (<strong><a href="https://www.gartner.com/smarterwithgartner/make-way-for-a-more-human-centric-employee-value-proposition" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">of which merely 6% of companies have adopted themselves</a></strong>).<br><br><strong><br>3. Offer opportunities for development<br></strong><br><br>According to&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.gartner.com/en/articles/4-ways-to-attract-and-retain-talent-that-aren-t-just-about-comp" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">recent research from Gartner,&nbsp;</a></strong>enhancing employee development opportunities is on the agenda of 44% of HR leaders over the coming year. Alongside this, 25% of leaders are aiming to increase rewards and recognition, and 24% intend to increase compensation and benefits.&nbsp;<br><br><br>To stay competitive in a fast-paced talent market, leaders should seek to supplement opportunities for development and, where possible, introduce relevant and well-aligned benefits to attract top executives. Additionally, conducting or reviewing up-to-date salary surveys to ensure you&rsquo;re offering the market rate is crucial to not being overlooked by top applicants.</p>

Explore the fundamentals behind improving candidate retention in today’s world of STEM recruitment and get expert advice from Vlad Babych, Principal Consultant at Search by SRG.

The importance of communication in candidate retention

<p>Heightened environmental concerns are reshaping consumer priorities and spurring on the growth of green chemistry in the UK. Between 2018-2021, 50% of specialty industrial and consumer chemicals manufacturers have seen a double-digit demand increase for green chemicals.&nbsp; While the concept of green chemistry, where chemical products and processes are designed with sustainability in mind, is far from new; 80% of chemical leaders today are placing as much emphasis on sustainability, environmental, social and governance actions as on revenue growth.&nbsp; To help guide the chemicals policies and regulations surrounding this growing field post-Brexit, upcoming Chemical Strategy plans from the government this year are set to pave the way forward for sustainability in the UK&rsquo;s chemical industry. These plans will incentivise and promote green chemistry considerations across the scope of chemical production &ndash; making 2023 a pivotal year to work in green chemistry. In this article, I will highlight three UK chemicals organisations who are actively investing in green chemistry to power sustainability and preserve our planet&rsquo;s future. Read on to learn more about: Three leading organisations pursuing green chemistry Skills for green chemistry career success &nbsp;How to accelerate your career in green chemistry Three leading organisations pursuing green chemistry &nbsp; Unilever With over 100 years in producing consumer goods, Unilever are established innovators in the chemicals industry. In 2022, Unilever was recognised by a number of professional bodies for its work in corporate sustainability leadership, mitigating climate risk, protecting forests, and enhancing water stewardship, among many other environmental, social and governance criteria. Their dedication to invest in green chemistry was hallmarked last year by their innovative foray into a new range of renewable and biodegradable surfactants to replace traditional carbon-intensive ingredients.&nbsp; In 2022, Unilever purchased a surfactant known as NextLab linear alkylbenzene, which is made using green carbon from biomass. This biodegradable and renewable surfactant will be used to create linear alkybenzene sulfonate (LAS) &ndash; the world&rsquo;s largest-volume synthetic surfactant.&nbsp; As the first chemicals organisation to use this ingredient, Unilever pave the way forward in actively incorporating renewable and circular techniques into industrial practice. Johnson Matthey Johnson Matthey (JM) provides a range of renewable and sustainable products to replace fossil raw materials to the wider manufacturing industries.&nbsp; JM is well recognised for its work across environmental and social governance, and has received a Platinum rating from Ecovadis, placing the organisation in the top 1% of all companies assessed, and in the top 3% of chemicals companies by the global index provider FTSE4Good. JM&rsquo;s commitment to green chemistry is reflected by their work with Pestorp Group to provide the ground-breaking initiative Project Air with the methanol license and engineering services. Project Air will substitute all the fossil methanol used by&nbsp;Perstorp in Europe to create chemical products using sustainable methanol. Alberto Giovanzana, Managing Director of Catalyst Technologies at Johnson Matthey reflected on the initiative in a press release: &ldquo;The chemical industry has often depended on fossil-based raw materials to produce products. Moving away from fossil feedstock at the beginning of the value chain is crucial to reduce the overall carbon footprint of end products.&nbsp;&nbsp; &ldquo;Project Air demonstrates how JM&rsquo;s low carbon solutions technologies can create more sustainable chemicals on a large-scale, significantly reducing the environmental impact of manufacturing.&rdquo; Croda Croda are committed to be the most sustainable supplier of innovative ingredients across life sciences and consumer care. Croda&rsquo;s array of awards reflects its efforts to reach being climate, land and people positive by 2030.&nbsp; Croda&rsquo;s pioneering work in developing 100% biologically-based and 100% renewable non-ionic surfactants highlights its position in the industry as proactive innovators. Croda&rsquo;s sustainable surfactants were the product of the organisation&rsquo;s significant investment in an ethylene oxide plant at Croda&rsquo;s US, Atlas Point manufacturing site, which supports the reinvention of many of Croda&rsquo;s active emulsifying agents to improve sustainability without sacrificing performance.&nbsp; Croda&rsquo;s commitment to sustainable innovation is most recently reflected in their acquisition of Solus Biotech, a biotechnology-derived beauty active producer. This acquisition will enable Croda to access Solus&rsquo; naturally derived ceramide and phospholipid technologies alongside its emerging capabilities in natural retinol.&nbsp; Croda are set to attend the UK process and chemical industries expo this year, where they will be represented by Phil Ruxton.&nbsp; Ruxton&rsquo;s presentation will delve into the intersection between biotechnology and chemistry and explore avenues towards more sustainable practice.&nbsp; He explains in his presentation&rsquo;s summary, &ldquo;conceptually biology has a lot of sustainable benefits to offerover chemistry, however biotechnology does not always and directly equate to a more sustainable end product. Our vision for the future is not one where synthetic biology has replaced synthetic chemistry, but where the right molecules, with the right performance and the right environmental and societal impacts are produced in the most efficient and effective way&rdquo;. &nbsp; Skills for green chemistry career success 77% of chemicals professionals working in both academia and industry say that it is &lsquo;very important&rsquo; to link sustainability to chemicals science education. However, over a quarter of chemicals professionals say the current chemicals curriculum is inadequate at supporting students establish careers in sustainability.&nbsp;&nbsp; This misalignment in education is fuelling a chemicals skills gap, that can be daunting to overcome when entering the field. In terms of green chemistry positions specifically, 68% of practising chemists say there is a significant skills gap. In this section, I will outline three key skills to focus on building to improve your success rate when looking for a job in green chemistry. Key skills for green chemistry careers: - Strong synthetic chemistry &ndash; Synthetic chemistry is the foundation behind greener chemical processes.&nbsp;&nbsp; - Knowledge of common raw materials &ndash; Research petrochemical derived raw materials and what the green alternatives are.&nbsp; - Process chemistry &ndash; Process chemistry is integral to working in green chemistry. Understanding how processes change across different scales is a vital skill that can be overlooked in some chemical degrees.&nbsp; How to accelerate your career in green chemistry SRG work alongside innovative chemicals organisations to place professionals throughout their career journeys into rewarding opportunities.&nbsp; We work with leading global organisations that are driving the future of sustainability and innovation in chemicals and can connect you with the opportunity you&rsquo;re looking for in green chemistry. Click here to view our latest opportunities in chemistry About the author: Faye Allison is the Head of Sector for Chemicals Recruitment at SRG and runs a team who specialise in finding scientists, engineers and technical talent for the chemical and materials industries. Supporting start-ups and spin-outs, as well as SMEs and multinational business, Faye's team recruit across a huge range of technical roles and disciplines all across England Connect with Faye Allison on LinkedIn to learn more about our opportunities in the field.&nbsp;</p>

Meet 3 leading chemicals organisations actively investing in green chemistry for a sustainable future with Faye Allison, Head of Chemicals at SRG

How 3 UK Chemicals Organisations are Accelerating Innovation in Green Chemistry

<p><strong>Beginning a new career at any age rarely makes for an easy decision, however taking the dive at age 40 often makes for an even more daunting one. Stepping out of your comfort zone can be intimidating, especially if it&rsquo;s accompanied by overwhelming emotions of worry and stress.&nbsp;</strong></p>
<p>You may be leaving behind a wealth of connections, financial security, or even a well-built network, all of which have taken time to develop. Re-establishing yourself within a new career can be unnerving, particularly when you may find yourself with extra responsibilities to consider now, such as family, that weren&rsquo;t present when you originally began.</p>
<p>However, feeling stagnant is notably worse than any doubts you may be feeling. As your life has progressed, it is totally normal if your current career isn&rsquo;t the right fit for you anymore. Opportunities have grown, and more possibilities are out in the world now that may be better suited for you.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Switching careers never comes without its challenges, however, pursuing your career goals is never an unreachable ambition. It may involve extra work, but it&rsquo;s never too late to go after what you desire. There is more <a href="https://www.srgtalent.com/career-advice"><strong>accessible help</strong></a>&nbsp;out there now than ever, and we&rsquo;re here to help guide you in making the change and ensuring you&rsquo;re on the right path to do so.</p>
<p>In this article, we will guide you on how to make a career change at 40.</p>
<p>Read on to discover:&nbsp;</p>
<ul>
<li>Deciding on your new career</li>
<li>How to make the change</li>
<li>Overcoming possible challenges</li>
</ul>
<div>&nbsp;</div>
<h2><strong>Deciding on your new career</strong></h2>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Finding the correct job for you is key to acquiring success in a career change. When embarking on a new career path the most important question to ask yourself is why? What are you seeking in a new career that is prominently missing in your current role?</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>If you're unfulfilled within your current industry, and are considering entering a new field altogether, your first step would be researching and noting the skills you need in conjunction with the skills you already obtain, both personally and professionally. You may have a wealth of knowledge in a particular industry, but core skills, such as; communication, teamwork, and problem-solving, can be applicable to almost any role. Think about the tasks and duties involved in your current role, and how they might be used in a completely different sector.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>It's true that you may need to upskill in certain areas, but it's achievable - and with some hard work and dedication, you can make a success of it. By taking the time to identify and understand the skills you have, you will be able to better assess which roles and industries could be a good fit for you.&nbsp;</p>
<p><br>When deciding on a new career path, it's important to take your time and consider the following points.&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Transferable skills:&nbsp;</strong>Take your time to reflect on what you enjoy doing and what your strengths are. If you've been doing the same job for a while, you may want to switch to something different. Be open to researching different career options available to you, including any qualifications or training you may need. Alternatively, you may find that you're good at certain skills or tasks and want to focus on these.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Part time/ full time:&nbsp;</strong>When considering a new career path, it's important to take your time and consider all your options. Should you take the plunge and go full-time? You'll need to feel sure that you're confident enough in your new chosen career path to be able to pursue it full-time. Or would it be more practical to take a part-time approach and ease yourself into something new? However, you may need to consider the financial implications to this, as such roles often come with lower salaries and fewer benefits. Whichever route you decide to take, it's important to make sure that you're taking the time to research, consider and plan your new career path.</li>
</ul>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Work life balance:&nbsp;</strong>Be sure to think about what type of lifestyle and work environment you'd favour. Different careers offer different levels of job security, salary, and hours. You should also consider how far you'd be willing to travel for work, whether a certain area appeals to you, and whether you'd prefer to work independently or as part of a team.</li>
</ul>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Long-term goals:&nbsp;</strong>Do your research and find out what career paths are available to you. Speak to people in the industry you're interested in and get a feel for what kind of opportunities are out there. Taking the time to think about what you want to achieve in the long term, and the areas you want to develop, can be a great way to help you decide on a new career path. It&rsquo;s also important to consider the flexibility of any potential role, and whether it will fit in with your other commitments.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>How to make the change</strong></h2>
<p>Making a career change at 40 can be a daunting prospect, however with the right motivation, research and connections, it can be achieved successfully.</p>
<p><br>Begin by considering what you want to do and why. Make sure it&rsquo;s something that you&rsquo;re passionate about and will make the most of your existing skills and knowledge. Research the market and find out what you need to do to transition into your new role and what qualifications or additional training you may need.&nbsp;</p>
<p><br>It&rsquo;s important to be realistic about the time it will take for you to make the transition. Be sure to take the time to build your network and find mentors who can provide advice on your career change journey. Seek out professionals who have made a successful career change and ask for their advice. Don't be afraid to reach out to people and ask for help. Making connections and networking are essential for success in any career change . That&rsquo;s why it&rsquo;s important to partner with trusted recruitment companies, who boast years of experience in matching the right candidates to the right roles, meaning you have a much better chance of finding that dream job.</p>
<p><br>When switching careers, your current CV may no longer reflect the direction you want to go in with your new career. It&rsquo;s important to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.srgtalent.com/blog/how-to-write-a-scientific-cv"><strong>create a CV&nbsp;</strong></a>that not only showcases your experience and skills, but also demonstrates what you can bring to the role. It&rsquo;s also highly important to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.srgtalent.com/blog/how-to-write-a-successful-cover-letter"><strong>produce a strong cover letter</strong></a>, outlining your desire to work in the sector and what you can bring to the role. Then, highlight the skills that you&rsquo;ve acquired that are relevant to the new role. Add examples to show how you have used them effectively in your previous roles.</p>
<p><br>Finally, build up your confidence. Be prepared to challenge yourself to make the most of the opportunities available. A positive attitude is key to any transition. Believe in yourself, take risks, and never stop learning.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>Overcoming possible challenges</strong></h2>
<p>Never allow yourself to be discouraged by any age-related challenges you may face. Starting a new career at 40 can be daunting but equally, it can be exciting and rewarding. It's important to remember that you are not alone in this journey and there are plenty of resources to help guide you. The key is to be open-minded and willing to embrace change and take risks.</p>
<p>When presented with the following challenges, consider the positive outcomes:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Responsibilities:&nbsp;</strong>Juggling family responsibilities with a new career can be a source of anxiety for many of us. It&rsquo;s natural to worry about how to balance home and work life, especially when there&rsquo;s so much to manage. It&rsquo;s important to try and take things one step at a time and break down the tasks into manageable chunks.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><strong>Self-doubt:&nbsp;</strong>Focus on the positive and be confident in your abilities. Don't be afraid to show off your skills and experience. Your years of experience prove you have knowledge and understanding that many younger candidates won't possess. Transferable skills like knowing how to speak up in meetings, work constructively with difficult team members, keep productive with self-talk, and reinvent yourself time and time again are important qualities for success in any career.<br><br></li>
<li><strong>Retraining:</strong>&nbsp;Having the right qualifications and certifications can be key to making yourself a more desirable candidate, as well as increasing your own confidence in your abilities. There are a variety of qualifications, both online or in person, that you can pursue to develop your skills and expertise, including industry-specific certifications, qualifications in leadership, and professional development courses. It&rsquo;s important to make sure that the qualifications you take up are relevant to the career path you&rsquo;re heading for, and that the course is accredited.&nbsp;<br><br></li>
<li><strong>Financial stability:&nbsp;</strong>Making a career change can be an overwhelming prospect, especially if it means taking a pay cut. However, it's also important to think about the long-term benefits of the new career, such as career development and potential salary increases. Start by doing your research, look into the salaries for the role you&rsquo;re considering and plan accordingly.&nbsp;<br><br>No matter what industries you choose to move in and out of, it&rsquo;s important to remember that your experience and skills are valuable. Don&rsquo;t be afraid to&nbsp;<a href="https://www.srgtalent.com/blog/how-to-negotiate-a-job-offer"><strong>negotiate your salary</strong></a>&nbsp;and look for a company that values your worth.&nbsp;<br><br>A career change doesn't necessarily mean a pay cut either; you may find a role that pays more than your current position and is still in line with your interests and qualifications.</li>
</ul>

Read more on how to make a career change at 40 with Thomas Ramsey, Senior Account Consultant.

How to Make a Career Change at 40

<p>In late 2022, we surveyed 763 candidates in STEM to find out which common interview questions were most stressful. &lsquo;Why should you get this job&rsquo; was ranked as the most stressful question (31%), followed by &lsquo;Where do you see yourself in 5 years&rsquo; time (27%), &lsquo;What are your strengths and weaknesses&rsquo;, and finally, &lsquo;Tell me about yourself&rsquo; (16%)</p>
<p><br>Further comments from our respondents reflect a sense of frustration with abstract questioning, and a desire to understand why recruiters ask these questions and what information they&rsquo;re looking for.</p>
<p><br>In this article Chris Beckenham, Team Leader at SRG, explores the logic behind these questions, while providing actionable advice for candidates to support interview preparation.</p>
<p><br>Read on to find out:</p>
<ul>
<li>What interviewers are looking for in common interview questions</li>
<li>Best ways to prepare for a job interview</li>
<li>How to find your next job in STEM</li>
</ul>
<h2>What interviewers are looking for in common interview questions</h2>
<h3>Question 1: Why should you get this job?</h3>
<p><br>When asking this question, interviewers are assessing what specifically makes you stand out from other candidates in the process. As an interviewee, I would recommend mentioning specialist experience that could help fill a gap in the wider team, or a success story that reflects the impact you could deliver in the organisation.</p>
<p>It&rsquo;s important to remember that interviews are a two-way process, in the same way that the company is selling themselves to you, you should have a clear idea of what you can bring to the table as a candidate and highlight whatever makes you stand out.</p>
<h3>Question 2: Where do you see yourself in five years&rsquo; time?</h3>
<p><br>With this question, interviewers are assessing whether your development lines up with what the organisation can offer, and whether your long-term goals are in line with the company&rsquo;s business plans.</p>
<p>While you may want to go far quickly, not every company can offer development opportunities. An interviewer or recruiter asking this question is gauging the suitability of the candidate both in terms of what the company can offer, as well as their level of self-awareness.</p>
<p>When answering this question, I&rsquo;d recommend keeping your ambitions realistic, and aligned to both your experience level and the company you&rsquo;re interviewing for.</p>
<h3>Question 3: What are your strengths and weaknesses?</h3>
<p><br>When asking this question interviewers want to see self-awareness. Weaknesses aren&rsquo;t always negative &ndash; your interviewer will want candidates to be aware of where they need development and opportunities. From here, if they have the time and resources to provide those opportunities for development in the role, they can assess and recommend suitably.</p>
<p>Focusing your answer on areas where you perhaps lack experience, and showing an enthusiasm for learning, can be a reliable strategy when answering this question.</p>
<h3>Question 4: Tell me about yourself</h3>
<p>This question is designed to assess team fit. From an interviewer&rsquo;s perspective, an interview provides a snapshot of information on a candidate, that they must use to gauge personality, experience and team fit.</p>
<p>As a candidate, you should consider how you can best represent your ability to integrate and work collaboratively in a wider team, alongside providing information about your experience. Remember, organisations that are hiring look for people who are committed, aligned and able to embed themselves within the team.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Best ways to prepare for a job interview</h2>
<p>I recommend that candidates treat interviews as they would any business meeting. Just as you wouldn&rsquo;t meet with a client without adequate preparation or material, so should you &nbsp;take the time to&nbsp;<strong><a href="../../../../../../career-advice/job-interview-tips/how-to-answer-competency-based-interview-questions" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">prepare before the interview</a>.</strong>&nbsp;One way to do this is by making key notes and taking them with you.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Interviews are not memory tests and having notes to hand can help shape responses in a more effective way, while signalling to hiring managers that you&rsquo;ve invested time in preparation.</p>
<p>When it comes to preparing those notes, assess the job specification against<strong>&nbsp;<a href="../../../../../../blog/how-to-write-a-scientific-cv" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">your CV&nbsp;</a></strong>and annotate where your experience aligns with the job spec. Annotate wherever you have experience in scenarios, and where you do not&ndash; this demonstrates that you are self-aware and will equip you with foreknowledge of where your opportunities for development in the role may lie.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Another key element for preparation is researching the company itself. Start on the company website, before you explore their social media. Companies are receptive to candidates who show a strong background knowledge. Note down key conversation points, such as conferences attended, charities sponsored, or events they&rsquo;ve held.</p>
<p>Finally, write and prepare your questions in advance. Prepare notes for questions through the interview, as well as&nbsp;<strong><a href="../../../../../../blog/top-5-questions-to-ask-at-the-end-of-an-interview" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">questions for the end of the interview</a></strong><a href="../../../../../../blog/top-5-questions-to-ask-at-the-end-of-an-interview" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">.&nbsp;</a>If you don&rsquo;t understand a question you&rsquo;re asked, asking the interviewer to re-phrase the question is appropriate and can provide you with the extra few seconds you may need to consider your response.&nbsp;</p>
<h2>How to find your next job in STEM</h2>
<p>SRG connect candidates across the STEM industries with leading organisations across the world.</p>

In this article, Chris Beckenham Team Leader at SRG provides strategic advice and recommendations to prepare you for how to answer interview questions using insights from our one of our latest candidate surveys.

How to Answer Interview Questions: Your Guide to What Interviewers Are Looking For

<p>Receiving a job offer is a definitive cause for celebration! You&rsquo;ve submitted your CV, aced your interview, and impressed with your abilities, leading your prospective employer to see that you&rsquo;re thoroughly fit for the role. However, now it&rsquo;s over to you - the floor is yours. The employer is no longer in the driver&rsquo;s seat, their focus has now switched to moving you into the role, as seamlessly as possible.</p>
<p>Negotiation leverage is now in your hands. As the future employee, it&rsquo;s now your right to open conversations surrounding negotiations around topics such as salary, severance pay, work-from-home, time off, and more. Nevertheless, timing is key. Before beginning negation talks, allow yourself to pause and comprehend all aspects of the job offer, and take the time to produce a negotiation strategy plan.&nbsp;</p>
<p>It&rsquo;s not uncommon to require extra time when evaluating the job offer, especially when it comes down to deciding between accepting and declining. However, providing yourself with the time to construct negotiation propositions correctly means the employer is more likely to agree to them, if backed up with sufficient evidence and cause for change. As you are yet to sign the employment contract, the ball is in your court to open up negotiation discussions before your pen touches the paper.&nbsp;</p>
<p>In this article, we will guide you on how to handle a job offer negotiation.</p>
<p>Read on to discover:</p>
<ul>
<li>How to negotiate a job offer</li>
<li>How to negotiate a start date</li>
<li>Negotiating your salary&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>How to negotiate a job offer</strong></h2>
<p>Upon obtaining a job offer, the employer should provide you with a timeframe in which you have to accept or decline the position. It&rsquo;s important not to make any rash decisions, but rather take the time given to read through the employment contract in detail, ensuring you are in firm understanding of everything the role encompasses.&nbsp;</p>
<p>When identifying aspects to negotiate with the employer, rather than simply requesting changes, construct a negotiation strategy plan. Similar to a business case, a negotiation strategy plan provides the employer with reasonings backed up by evidence, to justify the changes you&rsquo;re requesting. Alongside this, creating a negotiation strategy plan shows the employer you have read their contract, and taken time to deeply consider the position, exemplifying is importance to you.&nbsp;</p>
<p>In the course of constructing your negotiation strategy plan, pay close consideration towards factors such as:&nbsp;</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Requirements:&nbsp;</strong>When making any important decisions, it&rsquo;s constantly advised to consider both short and long-term goals, this should be no different when it comes to your work life. Every one person&rsquo;s priorities will differ, we are all individuals meaning what you may consider crucial, another may not. However, a sole reason to assess your employment contract prior to signing is to make certain the things you consider priority, your future employer will honour. Ask yourself; What are my main professional goals?, What type of work environment is healthiest for me?, What values do I regard highly in my work?</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><strong>Perks:&nbsp;</strong>Be sure to analyse the job perks before accepting the position. Assess what aspects are crucial to your work-life balance, healthcare coverage, additional holiday, flexibility,&nbsp;<a href="https://www.srgtalent.com/blog/the-benefits-of-hybrid-working-in-the-laboratory" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">hybrid working</a>&nbsp;etc. Make it a priority to explore these conditions and negotiate where needed to suit you. You wouldn&rsquo;t want to neglect vital matters for yourself, only to find out they&rsquo;re non-negotiable after signing the contract.</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><strong>Indemnities:</strong>&nbsp;Although salary negotiation is an essential factor to consider, there may be other indemnities to evaluate. Take time to delve into the company&rsquo;s pension scheme, study their stock options, anything that could provide you with extra financial security is always worth taking extra time to read through.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><strong>Benefits package:&nbsp;</strong>Many companies tend to offer a benefits package, something that proves to be a real selling point to potential employees. Everyone loves an incentive no matter how big or small. Although the benefits package does not relate directly to the job in question, it&rsquo;s still a valuable section to read up on. Benefits can range from travel opportunities to gym memberships, or even discounts in stores.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<h2><strong>How to negotiate a start date</strong></h2>
<p>More often than not the hiring manager will have a pre-planned start date in mind for new employees. Often, this is calculated for reasons such as payroll alignment. However, they must take into consideration their new hire may have prior commitments meaning sometimes the date may need to be pushed. If this is the case, and the proposed start date might not work for you, you'll need to open it up for negotiation with your new employer and agree on an alternative that suits both you and the business mutually. Don&rsquo;t forget, they have already chosen you for the position, they want you. Therefore, don&rsquo;t be afraid to be honest with them about what works/ doesn&rsquo;t work for you.&nbsp;</p>
<p>As long as what you&rsquo;re requesting is justifiable, and not a negotiation for negotiating sake, you are well within your rights as a new employee to open it up for discussion.</p>
<h2><strong>Negotiating your salary&nbsp;</strong></h2>
<p>Before beginning negotiations on salary, it is highly important to do your research. Consider the salary you&rsquo;d be happy to sit within. Would you feel underappreciated on minimum wage? Do you feel the knowledge and skills you&rsquo;d be bringing to the role deserve more than the expected salary? Be sure to perform research, during your consideration time, into current market rates for your chosen field.&nbsp;</p>
<p>When asked what your dream salary is, it can be hard to name a price. Naturally, we become reluctant to pinpoint a cap on our dream salary, as most of us struggle to regulate our wage aspirations whilst also keeping them reasonable logistically.&nbsp; Although we all want to neglect boundaries sometimes, it&rsquo;s crucial to remain realistic when discussing salary. Your dream wage should continue to be the highest you can expect to earn with your personal levels of knowledge, skills, and experience within the position you&rsquo;ve applied for.</p>
<p>When searching for a realistic salary to negotiate, begin by seeking out the<a href="https://www.srgtalent.com/insights/guides-and-reports/2022-global-science-salary-guide">&nbsp;<strong>top-tier salaries currently being advertised for roles in your sector.</strong></a>&nbsp; Consider the level of experience each role deems as essential, the cost-of-living rate in the specified location being advertised, as well as the number of responsibilities the role carries. If your dream salary exceeds the amount given on any of the jobs you&rsquo;ve found, the odds are you&rsquo;re most likely asking too much. Keep your negotiations realistic and explainable.&nbsp;</p>

Read more on how to handle a job offer negotiation with Thomas Ramsey, Senior Account Consultant.

How to Negotiate a Job Offer

<p><strong>Key learnings:</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>75% of UK professionals considering a career change don&rsquo;t feel qualified to work in STEM</li>
<li>An increasing amount of apprenticeships are making STEM careers more accessible for people from diverse backgrounds</li>
<li>&nbsp;A strong set of soft skills, and a clear motivation to succeed in science are crucial for career success.</li>
</ul>
<p><br>Despite STEM being one of the most profitable industries to work in, an overwhelming&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.computerweekly.com/news/365531460/More-than-60-of-people-think-they-are-not-qualified-for-STEM-careers" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">75% of UK professionals</a></strong>&nbsp;considering changing jobs don&rsquo;t think they have the qualifications for a STEM career.<br><br>In the UK, new apprenticeship pathways and&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://educationhub.blog.gov.uk/2023/03/08/international-womens-day-2023-apprenticeships-t-levels-support-women-stem-careers/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">&lsquo;T-Level qualifications&rsquo;</a></strong>, which focus on establishing technical expertise in a specialist subject, are helping to change the &lsquo;university narrative&rsquo; surrounding creating a career in STEM.<br><br>This is in turn is increasing diversity in the wider field &ndash; the UK government report that in the first quarter of 2022/2023,&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://educationhub.blog.gov.uk/2023/03/08/international-womens-day-2023-apprenticeships-t-levels-support-women-stem-careers/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">13% more women&nbsp;</a></strong>started STEM apprenticeships than they did the previous year.&nbsp;<br><br>In this article, I&rsquo;ll reveal the key benefits, and challenges apprentices in STEM often experience, and highlight the most important transferable skills for career success.<br><br></p>
<h2>What routes are there for apprentices in the lab?</h2>
<p>Most often, the two routes that apprenticeships in clinical science offer help apprentices become Lab Scientists or Lab Technicians.&nbsp;<br><br>These two roles offer a wealth of career options in the long run, from working in drug discovery through to supporting clinical trials.&nbsp;<br><br>At&nbsp;<strong><a href="../../../../../../clients/our-services/synergy-scientific-solutions" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Synergy,</a></strong>&nbsp;as part of the STEM learning outreach, we have established apprenticeship routes in partnership with a global biopharma company with fair pay, and ample opportunity to gain experience across a range of functions and departments.&nbsp;<br><br></p>
<h2>Benefits of working as an apprentice in STEM</h2>
<p>For many young people today, there&rsquo;s a growing concern that tuition fees alongside living costs create an unfeasible amount of debt and financial pressure.<br><br>Apprenticeships offer an alternative that still includes exposure to a higher level education, alongside on the job training. In most cases, apprentices work on site 4 days a week, and have 1 day in college where they benefit from a more educational setting.&nbsp;<br><br>This situation enables professionals, wherever they are in their career to build the experience they need to not only theoretically understand how to work in certain situations (as university degrees often do), but know the workplace environment, know which specialisms they&rsquo;re most interested in, and create a clear and focused career path.<br><br>Apprenticeships can also offer a clear route to job security. In many cases, the company where an apprentice has been working will take the apprentice on as a permanent employee. In situations where this doesn&rsquo;t happen, apprentices leave with a recognised qualification which makes them eligible to apply for other organisations, where they can bring the skills they&rsquo;ve cultivated first-hand directly to the job.<br><br><br></p>
<h2>Key challenges apprentices encounter</h2>
<p>In my experience, you can hit a glass ceiling without a degree when working in science.<br><br>While there are clear routes to progression post-apprenticeship, including becoming an associate scientist, scientist or even a senior scientist, to rise past that level through to being a group leader, or department head a degree is often a pre-requisite due to the flat hierarchal structure clinical science laboratories can have.<br><br>To navigate this challenge, I recommend taking the time to reflect and understand what elements of working in STEM you most enjoy &ndash; if you find yourself more drawn to the technical and scientific side of things, your career route will likely be oriented around becoming a group leader or senior scientist to maintain that practical aspect.<br><br>If you&rsquo;re more drawn to the operational, or &lsquo;people&rsquo; side of the job, you may be more aligned with a managerial position. Speaking from my own experience, I initially worked as a senior scientist, before becoming a post-doctoral scientist before realising that I preferred the operational side of the job, and pivoted over to lab management and developed my career in that field.&nbsp;<br><br></p>
<h2>Key transferable skills for a career in STEM</h2>
<p><strong>Top 10 transferable skills include:</strong><br><br></p>
<ol>
<li>Proactiveness</li>
<li>Independence&nbsp;</li>
<li>Strong eye for detail</li>
<li>Ability to work in a controlled environment (following regulations, etc.)</li>
<li>Digital literacy</li>
<li>Initiative</li>
<li>Time management</li>
<li>Adaptability</li>
<li>Problem solving</li>
<li>&nbsp;Multitasking</li>
</ol>
<p><br>In terms of educational requirements, most apprenticeships will require 5 GCSEs at grade 4 and above, including Maths, English and Science. However, some routes will require 3 A levels (including 2 in a science subject) alongside the GCSEs.<br><br></p>
<h2>Advice and guidance for apprentices in STEM</h2>
<p>It&rsquo;s really important not to be afraid to ask questions &ndash; from checking what to do when you&rsquo;re unsure, through to proactively asking what next steps after your apprenticeship are. There&rsquo;s a huge need for young researchers in today&rsquo;s scientific industries, and a shortage of STEM professionals.&nbsp;</p>
<p>If you&rsquo;re still in school, or perhaps have already worked in another field and want to make the shift over to STEM, I would recommend reaching out to apprenticeship providers to understand what your options are.&nbsp;</p>
<p>I&rsquo;d also recommend not being over-focused on a linear career path. When I left university after my Masters degree I took a few years out to figure out where I wanted to go in science. I initially went into the NHS for a few years, before venturing into the industry for a few years, where I realised that to get to the position I wanted to be in, I needed a PhD. My educational and working journey co-existed all the way through to my 30s. Making a career change and delving into STEM can be daunting, but it&rsquo;s never too late to make the switch; oftentimes the skills you&rsquo;ve developed in other environments can be of significant value in the lab.</p>
<p>As a final note, I&rsquo;d say that to create a successful career in STEM it&rsquo;s vital that you enjoy it. Whether you&rsquo;re going into science, engineering or maths, STEM fields are full of change and variety, which means that you&rsquo;re often going to encounter many challenges. You need the right mindset to approach these, and the right motivations for working in industry. If you do, the rewards can be huge in terms of job satisfaction.</p>
<h2>Who are Synergy?</h2>
<p>At Synergy, we employ teams of trained scientific professionals who work alongside your staff on-site, providing flexible and agile resource support.<br><br>If you are ready to develop your scientific career, working for Synergy could be an exciting way of moving forward while developing an invaluable variety of scientific experience.</p>

Discover how to get a good job in STEM without a degree with Jessica Dowding, Account Manager at Synergy, as she explores alternative pathways into STEM careers

How to Get a Good Job in STEM WIthout a Degree

<p>As a scientist looking for a new opportunity, you may be feeling the effects of a turbulent job market.</p>
<p>According to recent statistics,&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.pwc.co.uk/press-room/press-releases/pwc-workforce-survey-20221.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">1 in 5 UK workers</a>&nbsp;</strong>say that they are very or extremely likely to switch to a new employer in the next 12 months. Meanwhile, despite initially surging after the pandemic, job vacancies have begun to fall - a trend&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.ons.gov.uk/employmentandlabourmarket/peopleinwork/employmentandemployeetypes/bulletins/jobsandvacanciesintheuk/december2022#main-points" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">the office for national statistics describe as</a></strong>&nbsp;linked to economic pressures and uncertainties across industries.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p>In this competitive landscape, more candidates are experiencing higher rates of job rejection<strong>.<a href="https://employernews.co.uk/news/uk-workers-are-more-likely-to-move-jobs-for-better-pay-than-stay-put-for-security-finds-tiger-recruitment/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">&nbsp;24% of UK workers</a>&nbsp;</strong>are finding the process to find a new role longer than ever before.</p>
<p>In November 2022, SRG surveyed 754 job seekers looking for opportunities across STEM on their biggest blockers in the job search process. These blockers included burnout, a lack of feedback from job interviews, managing job applications and not knowing where to find jobs.</p>
<p>In this article, I will explore practical strategies and techniques based on our research to help you stay motivated and on track to finding success.</p>
<p>Read on to explore:</p>
<ul>
<li>How to find a job in STEM</li>
<li>What do when you receive no feedback after a job interview</li>
<li>How to control burnout as a job applicant</li>
</ul>
<h2>How to find a job in STEM</h2>
<p>For 9% of respondents to SRG&rsquo;s survey, knowing where to find jobs in STEM was their biggest demotivator in finding a new role.</p>
<p>In my experience as a Recruitment Consultant, non-industry specific job platforms such as Indeed, LinkedIn and CV Library have a range of scientific roles advertised across a variety of levels &ndash; from graduate positions, through to more senior jobs. Alternatively,&nbsp;<strong><a href="../../../../../../jobs" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">SRG&rsquo;s own website</a></strong>&nbsp;also hosts a range of opportunities across the scientific fields specifically including Pharma, MedTech, FMCG, Chemicals and Biotech.</p>
<p>If you&rsquo;re looking to network and establish a career as a scientific professional, LinkedIn is a particularly valuable tool to grow your professional network and increase your access to opportunities. However, your success will depend on how well your LinkedIn profile is developed (<strong><a href="../../../../../../blog/how-to-make-your-linkedin-profile-stand-out-as-a-scientist" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">we have an article to show you how to do this here</a></strong>).&nbsp;</p>
<p>When it comes to finding a job in STEM, my top pieces of advice are:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong><a href="../../../../../../blog/how-to-make-your-linkedin-profile-stand-out-as-a-scientist" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Update your LinkedIn profile&nbsp;</a></strong></li>
<li>Create job alerts for the types of roles you&rsquo;re interested in</li>
<li>Follow company pages at target organisations on LinkedIn</li>
<li>Partner with an established scientific recruitment agency</li>
<li>Create a profile on job boards (CV Library and Indeed)</li>
<li>Build a<a href="../../../../../../blog/how-to-write-a-scientific-cv" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">&nbsp;<strong>tailored scientific CV</strong>&nbsp;</a></li>
</ul>
<h2>What to do when you receive no feedback after a job interview</h2>
<p>Over half (57%) of all respondents to our survey said not receiving feedback from a job interview was the most demotivating factor in their job search. Given the time and energy applicants invest in both job applications and interview stages, communication and feedback are particularly critical to maintaining a positive dynamic between both applicants and hiring managers.</p>
<p>However, in an increasingly digital world of recruitment, establishing an open channel of communication and feedback with those hiring can be challenging if you&rsquo;ve never met in person. This goes both ways, for both recruiters that fail to follow up with actionable feedback, and candidates who don&rsquo;t get back to organisations or recruiters on interview follow-ups.</p>
<p>As a candidate, I would recommend communicating honestly with the recruiter you&rsquo;re working with &ndash; from being open about other interviews you&rsquo;re attending, to actively replying to and refusing vacancies that aren&rsquo;t completely aligned with your expectations. Being honest and open and providing information on what it is you&rsquo;re looking for will help optimise your job prospects.</p>
<p>If you haven&rsquo;t received feedback from a job interview you&rsquo;ve recently attended, I would recommend waiting for at least 5 days in the first instance. This may seem like a long time to wait when you&rsquo;re anticipating a decision, but it&rsquo;s important to bear in mind that the job application process takes an average of 3 weeks in the scientific industries. You can expect to wait 1-2 weeks to hear back about your CV, and around 1 week before you receive feedback from an interview.</p>
<p>It&rsquo;s important to remember that a lack of feedback could well be reflective of an organisation&rsquo;s hiring processes, rather than a reflection of your own abilities. Not achieving a role in a specific organisation does not define your value as a candidate and partnering with the right recruiter within a specialist agency will ensure feedback is provided where possible, and a relationship is developed to help continue to support you in your job search.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2>How to control burnout as a job applicant</h2>
<p>Almost a quarter (24%) of respondents in SRG&rsquo;s recent survey said burnout was their biggest blocker to motivation in their job search. In addition, 10% of respondents said struggling to manage applications was their greatest demotivator as a candidate.</p>
<p>In my experience, burnout and not knowing how to manage job applications are linked.</p>
<p>Candidates experiencing burnout often apply to many roles at once &ndash; some roles may be linked to their interests, while others are chosen out of location or salary, but selections are sometimes not made as part of a clear, holistic strategy.</p>
<p>Building this strategy as a candidate means mapping our your short-term, and long-term, career goals. Be realistic and have a long-term view of what role offers the right skills and opportunities for later progression to take your career to the next level.</p>
<p>I recommend optimising and targeting the types of roles you&rsquo;re applying for based on this strategy &ndash; focusing your time on a select few applications at once, rather than 10+.</p>
<p>Whilst dedicating effort, time and energy into an unsuccessful job-process can drive burnout in the long-term, working with an experienced recruiter can help lift some of the stress and help prepare and support you across the job application process.</p>
<p>At SRG, all our Recruitment Consultants offer interview preparation to our candidates as standard, where we call candidates 2 days before their interview, go through example interview questions and provide all the detail the candidate needs about the role and organisation to be successful in interview. This interview preparation process is targeted for each candidate and is built on conversations that we&rsquo;ve had with the Hiring Managers at the organisation, meaning that your preparation is as effective and tailored as it can be.</p>
<p>We also support with&nbsp;<strong><a href="../../../../../../blog/how-to-write-a-successful-cover-letter" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">cover letters</a>,</strong>&nbsp;when they&rsquo;re required, by building cover sheets on the behalf of candidates that highlight their skills and experience for the employer.&nbsp;</p>
<p>By working with an established recruitment agency like SRG, you can proactively reduce some of the burnout you may otherwise experience surrounding peripheral factors like interview prep or cover letter preparation by aligning your ambitions and preparing for the best eventual outcome together.</p>
<h2>Find your career for life with SRG</h2>
<p>At SRG, we support scientific professionals across the full span of their career, helping link talented experts to leading organisations across STEM.</p>
<p>Our talented Recruitment Consultants are on hand to help you make the next step in your professional journey.</p>

Get actionable advice from Nathan McCarron on how to find a job in STEM and maintain motivation

How to Find a Job in STEM and Stay Motivated

<p>In the UK, where demand for AI skills has<a href="https://aiskills.lightcast.io/?utm_term=ai&amp;utm_campaign=Global+-+AI+in+the+UK+-+Q4+2022&amp;utm_source=adwords&amp;utm_medium=ppc&amp;hsa_kw=ai&amp;hsa_net=adwords&amp;hsa_ad=627506943505&amp;hsa_tgt=kwd-12578326&amp;hsa_acc=3829450260&amp;hsa_cam=18568675417&amp;hsa_src=g&amp;hsa_ver=3&amp;hsa_mt=b&amp;hsa_grp=142307535597&amp;gclid=EAIaIQobChMI6d63juns-wIViODtCh0gdgiDEAAYBCAAEgKs3vD_BwE" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">&nbsp;<strong>more than tripled over the last decade</strong></a>, the nature of work in FMCG is evolving fast. Whereas in the past, many roles, particularly in manufacturing, revolved around mechanical expertise, a growing need for dual-skilled electrical and mechanical engineers, as well as data scientists and software developers, is disrupting the skills landscape of the wider industry, particularly as academic and vocational pathways are yet to catch up.&nbsp;</p>
<p>In this article, I&rsquo;ll explore:</p>
<ul>
<li>What&rsquo;s driving FMCG companies to invest in AI</li>
<li>Why a talent-focused AI strategy is key to success</li>
<li>Which skills are in demand for AI in FMCG</li>
</ul>
<h2>What&rsquo;s driving FMCG companies to invest in AI</h2>
<p>Like many other industries, FMCG is focused on harnessing the potential of the fourth industrial revolution, where data, AI, and machine learning merge to improve and streamline manufacturing. Having already revolutionised processes in STEM industries like pharma, embedding AI and machine learning is key to remaining competitive in the notoriously fast-moving consumer goods industry.</p>
<p>But what does this competitivity translate to in real terms?</p>
<p>Let&rsquo;s take a closer look at&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://d3bql97l1ytoxn.cloudfront.net/app_resources/296208/documentation/963183_en-US.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Colgate-Palmolive&rsquo;s work with Augury</a>,</strong>&nbsp;a predictive maintenance company. Colgate-Palmolive were facing supply chain interruptions and unplanned downtime of machinery in the production of toothpaste, which severely reduced the availability of capital for strategic growth and damaged profits.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Working with Augury enabled Colgate-Palmolive to predict mechanical faults before they impacted production lines. In just one instance, Augury&rsquo;s predictive maintenance flagged a critical fault that saved&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://d3bql97l1ytoxn.cloudfront.net/app_resources/296208/documentation/963183_en-US.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">192 hours of downtime, &pound;12,000 for a new motor, &pound;27,000 in variable costs and 2.8 million tubes of toothpaste.</a></strong></p>
<p>Overall, the implementation of predictive AI-led maintenance increased production yields, lowered operating costs, optimised operating spend, mitigated manufacturing risk, and increased visibility into the health of machines and equipment.</p>
<p>And that&rsquo;s just one example among many. According to<a href="https://www2.deloitte.com/in/en/pages/consumer-business/articles/manufacturing-innovation-conclave-2021.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">&nbsp;<strong>global research from Deloitte</strong></a>, 60% of manufacturing executives reported decreased costs when using AI, and 50% reported increased revenues as a direct result of introducing AI within the supply chain.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Some of the ways AI is being used outside of predictive maintenance in FMCG to strengthen and support the FMCG industry include:</p>
<p><strong>Logistics</strong></p>
<p>Autonomous vehicles are evolving the logistical side of the FMCG supply chain, helping to automatically audit shelves and speed distribution. At<strong><a href="https://internetretailing.net/delivery/new-robots-and-logistics-tech-sees-ocado-move-to-totally-shake-up-the-online-grocery-delivery-business-24311/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">&nbsp;Ocado, a UK-supermarket retailer</a></strong>, over 1,000 robots control, from a single location, the shipping of over 200,000 orders every week to online grocery customers. These vehicles help reduce human risk while improving speed and accuracy.&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Demand forecasting and supply planning</strong></p>
<p>Like predictive maintenance, demand forecasting, and supply planning use AI algorithms to continuously learn about a company&rsquo;s normal supply chain patterns and trade partners before analysing and extracting key trends and insights from this data. These insights can help complement rule-based systems, and traditional optimisation techniques in demand forecasting and supply planning to strengthen organisational strategy.</p>
<h2>Why a talent-focused AI strategy is key to success</h2>
<p>We&rsquo;ve established that AI and machine learning can and does actively support the FMCG industry to not only maintain systems but optimise strategy, forecast, and improve logistical efficiency and distribution methods.</p>
<p>However, successfully implementing AI isn&rsquo;t as simple as merely investing in the technology alone.</p>
<p>According to<a href="https://www.mckinsey.com/capabilities/operations/our-insights/smart-operators-how-leading-companies-use-machine-intelligence" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">&nbsp;<strong>research led by MIT</strong></a>, the following three factors are critical to success:&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>1. Governance</strong></p>
<p>The researchers refer to governance in the sense of senior leaders developing and governing a purpose-driven strategy to deploy technology. Successful AI-enabled organisations have a top-down push from senior management and a continuous effort from senior leaders across the organisation to ensure that the digital programs remain on track.</p>
<p><strong>2. Deployment</strong></p>
<p>Effectively deploying talent to maximise potential is the second critical factor to AI-success. Leading organisations were more likely to purposefully organise talent and resources by establishing a centre of excellence where core resources were focused. Deployment is also used to refer to accessing talent from alternative sources, such as partnerships with academia and start-ups to supplement strategy with expertise.</p>
<p><strong>3.&nbsp;Data</strong></p>
<p>Ensuring that data is not only available and accurate but communicated across to the front line. Senior employees from leading organisations were much more willing to provide data access to the front line, and across the board &ndash; this helped ensure that employees across the organisation had the information they needed to succeed.</p>
<p>This research reveals a two-fold approach to considering the impact of talent, both in terms of building skills and training front-line employees.</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://www.mckinsey.com/capabilities/operations/our-insights/smart-operators-how-leading-companies-use-machine-intelligence" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">D&rsquo;Silva, a senior partner emeritus at McKinsey New York explains</a></strong>&nbsp;the active role leaders in successful organisations took in building much-needed AI skills, &ldquo;the leaders had thought about roles that others hadn&rsquo;t even gotten to. For instance, things like machine learning engineers versus simply data scientists and data engineers.&rdquo; D&rsquo;Silva says, &ldquo;There were four or five different categories of people that the leaders were building into the process, thinking three or four steps ahead.&rdquo;)</p>
<p>D'Silva continues, &ldquo;The second thing is that there was greater emphasis on training their frontline employees.&rdquo; He explains that even when organisations were developing AI forecasting technologies that were unrelated to their role, &ldquo;There was a greater degree of emphasis on training the frontline staff to be able to get the most out of it.&rdquo;</p>
<h2>Which skills are in demand for AI in FMC</h2>
<p>While number of AI skills varies across roles in the wider workforce, machine learning, and artificial intelligence skills have had the greatest rise in demand within the UK, where they have more than doubled in demand in the labour market between 2016 and 2020.</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://aiskills.lightcast.io/?utm_term=ai&amp;utm_campaign=Global+-+AI+in+the+UK+-+Q4+2022&amp;utm_source=adwords&amp;utm_medium=ppc&amp;hsa_kw=ai&amp;hsa_net=adwords&amp;hsa_ad=627506943505&amp;hsa_tgt=kwd-12578326&amp;hsa_acc=3829450260&amp;hsa_cam=18568675417&amp;hsa_src=g&amp;hsa_ver=3&amp;hsa_mt=b&amp;hsa_grp=142307535597&amp;gclid=EAIaIQobChMI6d63juns-wIViODtCh0gdgiDEAAYBCAAEgKs3vD_BwE">Recent research from Lightcast</a></strong>&nbsp;reveals the following AI priorities and skills:&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>Top 5 in demand AI skills:</strong></p>
<ol>
<li>Machine learning</li>
<li>Artificial intelligence</li>
<li>Natural language processing</li>
<li>Deep learning</li>
<li>Computer vision</li>
</ol>
<p><strong>Top 5 in demand AI soft skills:</strong></p>
<ol>
<li>Communication skills</li>
<li>Teamwork/Collaboration</li>
<li>Research</li>
<li>Problem Solving</li>
<li>Creativity</li>
</ol>
<h2>Get ready for the future of work in FMCG</h2>
<p>Given the changing landscape of work in the wider FMCG industry, a strong talent-focused strategy is essential. Bridging today&rsquo;s skills gap will take proactive consideration for a future talent pipeline where apprenticeships, upskilling initiatives, and training opportunities are embedded within the organisation. Putting in the time, and effort to empower your people as you technologically advance your organisation will help drive retention, engagement, and overall success as your wider teams realise their value and power their success within your organisation.</p>
<p>For FMCG applicants looking to futureproof, or develop their career in FMCG, take the time to discuss opportunities for learning and development with your current employer. Are there opportunities where you could shadow an electrical engineer and procure additional skills? By putting yourself on the path to further development, you&rsquo;ll likely stand out to hiring managers as actively interested in updating your experience, rather than passively inclined.</p>
<p>To find out more about expanding your FMCG workforce, please&nbsp;<strong><a href="mailto:solutions@srgtalent.com">click here to get in touch.</a></strong></p>
<p>Or, if you&rsquo;re a candidate looking for your next role in FMCG,<strong><a href="../../../../../../find-a-job/engineering-jobs/fmcg-jobs" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">&nbsp;click here to find your next opportunity.</a></strong></p>

The demand for AI in FMCG is evolving the nature of the skills required for success. Find out more with Fraser Gibson, Head of FMCG at SRG.

How AI in FMCG is Disrupting Skills Requirements

<p>While&nbsp;<strong><a href="../../../../../../blog/the-role-of-artificial-intelligence-in-pharmacovigilance" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">the pharmaceutical industry is evolving fast</a></strong>, pharmaceutical&nbsp;<strong><a href="../../../../../../career-advice/roles-in-focus/quality-assurance" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">quality assurance</a></strong>&nbsp;experts provide the critical foundation behind its progress.</p>
<p>From ensuring that products are safe, and manufacturing is optimised, to facilitating innovation to enable consistency in quality over time, quality assurance professionals in pharma provide a core layer of accuracy that underlies the success of every pharmaceutical product in the market today.</p>
<p>Keep reading to find out:</p>
<ul>
<li>The role of quality assurance professionals in pharma</li>
<li>Career routes in quality assurance</li>
<li>Key characteristics of a successful quality assurance expert</li>
</ul>
<h2>The role of quality assurance professionals in pharma</h2>
<p>Quality assurance professionals work to optimise&nbsp;<strong><a href="../../../../../../blog/5-drug-discovery-and-development-challenges-and-how-to-solve-them" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">drug development processes</a></strong>&nbsp;and ensure the safety of the product for end-users.&nbsp;</p>
<p>While quality control professionals often have overlapping responsibilities with quality assurance professionals, quality control teams tend to work directly with the physical product in a laboratory environment. Meanwhile, quality assurance teams have a more direct role in regulatory affairs, including regulation documentation, auditing, and process management.</p>
<p>Quality assurance ensures both the safety and effectiveness of prescribed medicine by:</p>
<ul>
<li>Ensuring the pharmaceutical product is designed to meet needs and performance requirements</li>
<li>Processes are designed to consistently meet product critical quality attributes</li>
<li>Processes, equipment, personnel, and deviations are identified and controlled appropriately</li>
<li>Manufacture is monitored and updated to achieve consistency in quality over time</li>
</ul>
<h2>Career routes in quality assurance</h2>
<p>Quality assurance provides a wealth of opportunity for those interested in working in a fast-paced, and agile environment, where attention to detail and a passion for learning are key.</p>
<p>While a pharmaceutical degree is often cited by employers as preferable, other STEM-associated degrees as well as business degrees are often considered valuable for the role.&nbsp;</p>
<p>In terms of career progression, quality assurance professionals often start their careers working in QA or QC officer roles, either as an associate, or executive. After further experience, professionals can progress onto QA or QC management, as well as Director and C Suite level positions. Often, many QA professionals work as consultants, particularly once they have established themselves within the industry.&nbsp;<br><br></p>
<h2>Key characteristics of a successful quality assurance expert</h2>
<p>Successful quality assurance experts are detail-oriented and agile, with a strong understanding of not only the processes and regulations surrounding the pharmaceutical industry, but of why they are there, and why they&rsquo;re important.</p>
<p>When our teams at SRG look to hire quality assurance professionals we often assess the following:</p>
<ul>
<li>Knowledge of good manufacturing practice</li>
<li>Policies and regulation knowledge</li>
<li>Quality monitoring system knowledge</li>
<li>Data integrity knowledge</li>
</ul>
<p>Most notably, a thorough understanding of GMP, in terms of what the most important aspects are, is a key discerning factor of a strong candidate. Taking the time to understand why the processes exist, and need to be followed is very valuable, and reflects a detail-oriented perspective that is equally as important for the role.</p>
<h2>Looking for your next opportunity in quality assurance?</h2>
<p>If you&rsquo;re interested in exploring a career in quality assurance, our expert consultants at SRG are on hand to support your journey as a candidate.</p>
<p><strong><a class="button" href="http:">Click here to explore our latest opportunities in quality assurance</a></strong><a class="button" href="http:"><br></a></p>
<p><strong>About the author:&nbsp;</strong>Behruz Sheikh specialises in providing innovative solutions around talent to companies across the life sciences sector, with a strong focus on pharmaceuticals, med tech and biotech. Having established a strong network across the north of England across SMEs, start ups, and big pharma, he has provided a wide range of bespoke talent solutions to organisations from ad-hoc niche scientific searches to on-site RPO solutions.&nbsp; Behruz&rsquo;s team specialise in placing a wide range of STEM roles spanning across bench to boardroom; typical roles include: Analytical Chemists, Microbiologists, Molecular Biologists, Formulation Chemists, Upstream Biotechnologist, Downstream Biotechnologist, GMP Quality Specialists up to Qualified Person, and commercial roles such as Project Managers and Business Development Managers.<br><br><strong><a href="https://uk.linkedin.com/in/behruz-sheikh-30462254" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Connect with Behruz on LinkedIn</a></strong>&nbsp;to learn more about our opportunities in the field.</p>

Discover the importance of quality assurance in pharma and what skills matter most with Behruz Sheikh, Pharmaceutical Sector Head

Working in Pharmaceutical Quality Assurance: Career Guidance

<p>The demand for Clinical Trial Managers in the UK has heightened as the<strong><a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/the-future-of-uk-clinical-research-delivery" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">&nbsp;Department for Health and Social Care&rsquo;s strategy &ldquo;Future of UK Clinical Research Delivery&rdquo;</a></strong>&nbsp;continues to shift the life science industry&rsquo;s focus onto establishing a sustained and supported research workforce.</p>
<p>The&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://trialsjournal.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s13063-022-06315-8" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">UK aims to elevate itself as a world-leading location for clinical research</a></strong>&nbsp;&ndash; a goal that will only be achievable with the right expertise to establish and implement responsive systems and techniques to power clinical trial success.&nbsp;</p>
<p>In recognition of the growing need both nationally and worldwide for Clinical Trial Managers, more scientific professionals are noticing and considering the career path.&nbsp;</p>
<p>In this article, I&rsquo;ll explain how to become a Clinical Trial Manager, exploring:</p>
<ul>
<li>The role of a&nbsp; Clinical Trial Manager&nbsp;</li>
<li>Key pathways to becoming a Clinical Trial Manager</li>
<li>What qualifications do you need to work as a Clinical Trial Manager?</li>
<li>The key difference between working in industry and academia</li>
<li>Tips for success in clinical trial management</li>
</ul>
<h2>What does a Clinical Trial Manager do?</h2>
<p>While the initial stages of a clinical trial often focus on the science and peer review, once the trial has been accepted the challenge shifts onto establishing and implementing effective and responsive systems and techniques to accurately streamline the success of the trial &ndash; this is where the role of a Clinical Trial Manager becomes critical.</p>
<p>Clinical trial managerial responsibilities often include (but are not limited to):</p>
<ul>
<li>Reviewing literature</li>
<li>Developing protocols</li>
<li>Applying for funding</li>
<li>Designing data collection forms</li>
<li>Collaborating with the team and external stakeholders</li>
<li>Running consultations</li>
<li>Aligning scientific work with an overarching business strategy</li>
</ul>
<p>Clinical trial management is an exciting area to work in, as it involves acting as the first port of call for the clinical trial process. While in this role, Clinical Trial Managers often develop a knowledge base in a niche area. By the end of your first year, you&rsquo;ll likely know the project inside and out, making you the go-to person for a range of stakeholders.</p>
<p>Acting as a &lsquo;subject-matter expert&rsquo; enables you to build a global relationship with the patient engagement division, Principle Investigator, and Quality Assurance Department, where you&rsquo;ll be the figurehead of the project itself. This foundational role of responsibility means actively solving problems, answering questions, attending meetings, and reflecting a passion and drive for the success of the research.<br><br></p>
<h2>Key pathways to becoming a Clinical Trial Manager</h2>
<p>A traditional route to becoming a Clinical Trial Manager often involves some element of working your way up. For example, starting out as an Administrator, before becoming a Clinical Research Associate. Working in that role for 3-5 years can provide a good foundation for progressing onto a role as Assistant Clinical Trial Manager or working in the production support team. After working in this role for a further 3-5 years, you could then consider applying for a role as a Clinical Trial Manager.</p>
<p>Alternative career routes are not uncommon in the clinical trial industry. After attaining a Masters, or PhD and garnering both academic knowledge surrounding how clinical trials are run, alongside an interest and commitment to pursue management further, some individuals apply for beginner clinical trial positions which offer the opportunity to train while initiating a career in management.</p>
<p>After working as a Clinical Trial Manager for 3-5 years, professionals often become a sSenior Clinical Trial Manager, where they oversee other Clinical Trial Managers and often have a therapy-specific focused division. From here its common to progress onto roles such as Associate Director, Chief Executive, or Project Manager&nbsp; Lead.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Professional development is key to progressing your career further, whether that&rsquo;s taking a project management course, or investing your time in developing experience in a specific therapeutic area.</p>
<p>Employers want to see that you&rsquo;re not job hopping, but that you&rsquo;re moving up the career ladder by requalifying yourself continuously.<br><br></p>
<h2>What qualifications do you need to work as a Clinical Trial Manager?</h2>
<p>While some professionals progress straight into working in a clinical trial environment after their A-levels and work their way up to becoming a Clinical Trial Manager, the typical qualification route often involves gaining a Masters or PhD&nbsp;</p>
<p>Unfortunately, when professionals enter the profession without A-levels after working their way up, at some point they do experience some level of scepticism surrounding their promotion &ndash; regardless of experience. This often drives experienced individuals at late stages of their career to return to education to attain higher level education to bolster their career progression after experiencing setbacks due to the aforementioned scepticism.</p>
<p>For those entering the field with a Bachelor&rsquo;s as a minimum, or a Master&rsquo;s and PhD, you&rsquo;re likely to have a stronger foundation to develop your career in the long term and face less resistance when it comes to more senior positions where a degree is often a baseline requirement for consideration.<br><br><br></p>
<h2>The difference between working in a Clinical Research Organisation (CRO) and Academia</h2>
<p>Working in industry and academia involve completely different criteria for success.</p>
<p>A successful academic research career comes down to your ability to network. If you can network effectively, communicate well, present your research, and have charisma as an individual, you&rsquo;re more likely to be able to succeed than someone who can perhaps research and analyse data very effectively.</p>
<p>Alongside those factors, being persuasive and patient are key to success in academic research. Achieving funding means persuasively and effectively applying for a number of grants &ndash; most of which you&rsquo;ll likely have critical rejection letters from &ndash; so resilience is also important.</p>
<p>Meanwhile, speaking from a vendor perspective, working in a CRO often results in a modular, supportive environment with ample training opportunities. The sector is increasingly prioritising employee engagement, which often creates a supportive environment where leaders are wary of overwhelming their workers. Alongside this, large CROs don&rsquo;t experience the same funding challenges as academic research, meaning your job is usually more secure.</p>
<p>However, despite these factors, CROs face high competition therefore providing a clinical research service that stands out from the crowd is critical. Some organisations achieve this by economically leading clinical research, which creates a diligent culture where employees must work very efficiently and achieve hard to meet objectives. However, there is often a lack of room for career growth, making it challenging to advance professionally.<br><br></p>
<h2>Tips for success in Clinical Trial Management</h2>
<h3>1.&nbsp;Gain a higher-level qualification</h3>
<p>Attaining a degree, whether that&rsquo;s a bachelors or PhD is highly beneficial, regardless of how tempting it might be to pursue a career in clinical research without one. Having the right academic foundation can make it much easier to progress your career in the long-term.</p>
<h3>2.&nbsp;Stay agile</h3>
<p>If you find that you&rsquo;re not gaining much experience, or not enjoying working in a specific area, don&rsquo;t hold back from moving on to an alternative department or division, where you might just find your ideal niche &ndash; the crucial aspect behind a successful career in clinical research is doing something you enjoy and are passionate about.</p>
<p>However, this isn&rsquo;t to say that frequently moving between jobs is advisable. It&rsquo;s important to stay in a role for at least 1-3 years before you take the next step to enable you to develop the depth of knowledge required to benefit from and reflect your experience in your next role.</p>
<h3>3.&nbsp;Be strategic</h3>
<p>When considering a career in clinical trial management, particularly from an alternative academic route, attaining a role can be competitive.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Bear in mind that clinical trial centres run a whole range of projects from non-drug projects to investigational product based clinical trials and this variety can provide an opportunity for you to apply to work from a range of different angles. Remember to exemplify how your experience and academic knowledge relates to the research specialisms. Invest time into developing your CV and present it as effectively as possible, taking the time to prepare for interviews.</p>
<h2>Interested in pursuing a career in clinical research?</h2>
<p>SRG have supported scientific candidates across STEM into rewarding careers across the clinical industry for over three decades. As scientists ourselves, we use our expertise and knowledge to guide candidates across their career journeys, from beginner roles through to senior and executive positions.</p>

Discover how to become a clinical trial manager and tips for success with Angela Barclay, Operations Manager at SRG

How to Become a Clinical Trial Manager

<p>Firstly, being presented with two job offers is a huge achievement, and one you should take great pride in. Don&rsquo;t be afraid to gloat a little, it&rsquo;s good for the skin! However, now comes your decision - which job are you going to accept? To enable surety in your choice, you must weigh up the pros and cons, consider all factors surrounding both opportunities, all while assessing which role ticks the most boxes for you both professionally, and personally.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Choosing between two jobs seldom makes for an easy decision, but it&rsquo;s vitally important to make sure you accept the most suitable role for you.&nbsp;</p>
<p>In this article, we will guide you on how to efficiently choose between two jobs.</p>
<p><strong>Read on to discover:&nbsp;</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Aspects to consider when you received two job offers at the same time</li>
<li>Key deciding factors when reviewing job offers</li>
<li>How to decline the not-taken job offer<br><br></li>
</ul>
<h2>Aspects to consider when you received two job offers at the same time</h2>
<p>During the interview process, your main focus is centred around proving to the interviewer that you&rsquo;re the top candidate for the job. You articulate answers and eloquently provide&nbsp;<a href="https://www.srgtalent.com/blog/top-5-questions-to-ask-at-the-end-of-an-interview">interview questions</a>&nbsp;to exemplify yourself to the company, helping them to visualise you as an invaluable member of their team. However, once you have two job offers on the table, it&rsquo;s down to you to make an informed decision and decide which offer aligns best with your long-term career goals.&nbsp;</p>
<p>During your decision-making process it is key to dedicate important consideration towards factors such as:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Development opportunities:&nbsp;</strong>Take time to consider both development and training opportunities. Which job will provide you with the space to progress and learn, whilst using your preceding knowledge? Do they have a set career development plan, or an opportunity to go on training, or learn from more senior colleagues?&nbsp;<br><br></li>
<li><strong>Work tools:&nbsp;</strong>Consider what tools you need to excel in your job. For example, if you&rsquo;re searching for a job where their tech and lab infrastructure is important, look out for which job has the newest/ most up to date equipment, as this could help develop your skills.<br><strong><br></strong></li>
<li><strong>Work life balance:</strong>&nbsp;Pay attention to how present colleagues describe their work life balance at the companies. Use sites such as Glassdoor, to read up on employee experiences. One job may offer more of an equal balance between the two, meaning they understand home life is equally as important as your career.<br><br></li>
<li><strong>Work culture:</strong>&nbsp;It is crucially important to feel motivated and valued by your co-workers. Be sure to analyse the work culture of both organisations, within your team and the wider business, to make sure the business is the right culture fit for you. What are their company values? How do they represent them in real life? What are their business priorities from environment to sustainability to DE&amp;I, for example.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<ul>
<li><strong>Work location:&nbsp;</strong>In current times as a job seeker, candidates are often presented with the opportunity of working from home. This has become a trend to look out for in job searches, as we move forward in a post-covid world. Whilst remote working is on the rise, lots of roles offer&nbsp;<a href="https://www.srgtalent.com/blog/the-benefits-of-hybrid-working-in-the-laboratory">hybrid working</a>, and some still remain office based. It&rsquo;s important to assess what will work best for you.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Key deciding factors when reviewing job offers</h2>
<p>While there is a myriad of reasons why professionals decide to search for a new job, the intention often remains the same - career advancement. Therefore, when deciding on which offer to accept, there are several key deciding factors to take into consideration. We have narrowed down those deemed most important to reflect upon:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Long-term career:&nbsp;</strong>Your career ambitions should reflect your career goals, choosing the right role within the best-suited company is crucial. Each career decision you make should be made with the intention of moving you one step closer towards your goal destination.</li>
<li><strong>Salary:&nbsp;</strong>Money is important, however&nbsp;<a href="https://www.srgtalent.com/blog/why-money-doesnt-motivate-employees">not at the cost of it being the sole reason to accepting a role</a>. When debating between two job offers, it&rsquo;s important to take into consideration the salary for each, as if your role change is down to the need for progression, you ought to anticipate a salary increase as you move up the career ladder. However, accepting a job merely for the cheque may leave you feeling unfulfilled later down the line if the company itself is not right for you.&nbsp;<br><br></li>
<li><strong>Day to day:</strong>&nbsp;What will your day-to-day responsibilities look like? Take some time to jot down notes on a typical day in your role, for each company. Assess what you may like and dislike about each one. Consider aspects such as: your daily commute, workplace interactions, travelling, daily projects and variety etc&hellip;<br><br></li>
<li><strong>Gut instinct:</strong>&nbsp;Once you have studied both companies, and researched the role offered on both sides, take confidence in knowing your decision will be assuredly reliable. Once you have all the information and have taken the time to weigh up both job offers, it&rsquo;s time to make your final decision. Trust your gut. You know yourself and your goals better than anybody, so you must trust yourself and allow your intuition to lead you to the role that is best suited for you.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<h2>How to decline the not-taken job offer</h2>
<p>Once you&rsquo;ve reached your decision, contact the winning employer to let them know you gratefully accept. Then, be sure to let your current employer know of your departure at the first appropriate opportunity, by handing in your notice. Be sure to thank them for your time with their company, and everything the role provided you with. This indicates respect and allows you to begin your notice period as soon as possible. You can then contact the non-taken offer, also thanking them for their time, and the opportunity, but respectfully decline their offer</p>
<h2>Ready to accelerate your career?</h2>
<p>Use our&nbsp;<a href="https://www.srgtalent.com/"><strong>quick job search tool</strong></a>&nbsp;to find your next scientific or clinical job opportunity.</p>
<p>We have permanent, temporary, contract, full time and part time job opportunities across the scientific spectrum including chemicals, pharmaceuticals, medtech, biotech and FMCG.</p>

Read more on how to decide between two job offers with Thomas Ramsey, Senior Account Consultant.

How to Choose Between Two Jobs

<h3>Social media&rsquo;s not just a forum for half-baked opinions or pool party pics. It can actually be a powerful job-hunting tool that allows you to project a positive professional image to a wide yet relevant audience.</h3>
<p>If you misuse social media in a professional context, however, you could end up falling on your sword and damaging your career options. Here are&nbsp;<strong>six tips&nbsp;</strong>for ensuring your social media profiles give you the best possible chance of finding a new job.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>1) Be selectively sociable</strong></h2>
<p>You wouldn&rsquo;t walk up to a random person in the kitchen at work and ask them to be your best friend. In the same way, you need to maturely and patiently engage with a prospective employer rather than jumping straight in and asking if they&rsquo;ve got any jobs going. By following them, getting involved in discussions and slowly building up a relationship, you&rsquo;ll come across as a credible professional who they might consider working with one day. Discretion is definitely the better part of valour when it comes to social media.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>2) Put the word out</strong></h2>
<p>Let your network know that you&rsquo;re looking for a new role. Your professional contacts, especially those who work in similar spheres, will hopefully be able to provide you with referrals. Facebook can play a role here too, as your friends and family know you best and will (should!) be willing to at least recommend you to others. But as ever, be selective about how you do this. Don&rsquo;t use your company&rsquo;s Twitter account to jubilantly announce to their entire network that you can&rsquo;t wait to get out of there.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>3) Build and maintain a professional presence</strong></h2>
<p>These days, prospective employers are likely to Google you to see what kind of work you&rsquo;ve done and get an idea what you&rsquo;re about. If the first thing that comes up is a picture of you lying spark out drunk on some well- known tourist attraction, you know you probably need to tidy up your social profile. Make sure you use a professional-looking photo for LinkedIn (you&rsquo;d be amazed how many people don&rsquo;t) and take down anything you wouldn&rsquo;t want an employer to see.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>4) Include the right information</strong></h2>
<p>You can use a Twitter bio or your LinkedIn profile to list your qualifications and key skills as well as link to a blog, website or portfolio, showing you have an integrated approach to your career. Similarly, add links to your LinkedIn and Twitter profile (not Facebook) to your CV. On all your social media profiles, include keywords that a recruiter or hiring manager might use to find a person with your skills.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>5) Be careful what you say</strong></h2>
<p>It&rsquo;s probably the number one social media faux pas: the careless tweet. Don&rsquo;t make the same mistake as countless politicians or sports stars by making ill-advised or controversial comments about things you know little about, thereby damaging your reputation and credibility. By all means, express an opinion &ndash; companies would rather employ someone with a brain &ndash; but be careful about how you do it.</p>
<p>Make sure your personal information on Facebook is private and don&rsquo;t post anything publicly that you wouldn&rsquo;t want a prospective employer to see.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>6) Participate</strong></h2>
<p>Take part in online discussions, join industry groups, follow relevant blogs and share content to paint yourself as an expert who is genuinely involved in what they do. It will also help you to build up a relevant following. Interact with companies you&rsquo;d be interested in joining &ndash; and people who work for them &ndash; by tweeting and retweeting them to put yourself on their radar.&nbsp;Look through your shared connections to find other useful contacts.</p>
<p><strong><br>If you need more advice on finding a new role,&nbsp;speak to one of our consultants&nbsp;to see how we can help.</strong></p>

When embarking on your job hunt or career planning, knowing how to get the most out of social media can give you a real leg-up. Here's how.

Using Social Media to Advance Your Career

<p>Pharmaceutical careers involve working at the threshold of medical innovation &ndash; whether your job is within drug development, leadership, or advertising, there&rsquo;s a role where every skill set can make an impact on the wider world of health.</p>
<p>In the UK, the pharmaceutical industry adds the most value per employee to the UK economy over any other sector, delivering<strong><a href="https://www.abpi.org.uk/facts-figures-and-industry-data/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">&nbsp;&pound;40.7 billion in turnover with just 66,000 employees across the country</a></strong>.&nbsp;</p>
<p>As a result, the pharmaceutical sector is well-funded by the government and is expanding fast across the nation. In the North of England, and the Golden Triangle, <strong><a href="https://www.srgtalent.com/blog/can-the-north-compete-with-the-golden-triangle-for-science-opportunities" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">pharmaceutical superclusters</a></strong>&nbsp;provide ample opportunity for scientific candidates to forge a successful career.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The question is, what type of pharmaceutical career is most likely to empower your success?</p>
<p>In this article, we&rsquo;ll explore the two core career tracks in pharma, and provide actionable advice to help inform and optimise your career decisions.</p>
<p>Read on to discover:</p>
<ul>
<li>What types of jobs there are in pharma</li>
<li>How to assess whether a technical or commercial role is right for you</li>
<li>Career pathways in the pharmaceutical industry</li>
</ul>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2>What types of jobs are there in pharma?</h2>
<p>When working with pharmaceutical candidates, whether they&rsquo;re a graduate or an established professional, we assess whether they feel they&rsquo;re in the right role.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The core role types in pharma fall into two categories:&nbsp;</p>
<ul>
<li>Technical &ndash; Includes: quality assurance, formulation, analysis, drug development</li>
<li>Commercial &ndash; Includes: project management, sales, business development</li>
</ul>
<p>Technical roles focus on getting a product through&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.srgtalent.com/blog/5-drug-discovery-and-development-challenges-and-how-to-solve-them" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">drug development</a></strong>&nbsp;and are often responsible for some aspect of the technical delivery of a product.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Meanwhile, commercial roles tend to be client-facing and involve representing the company. This can include communicating with stakeholders about services and offerings, as well as working with suppliers and partners to deliver the commercial aspect of a project.&nbsp;<br><br></p>
<h2>How to assess whether a technical or commercial role is right for you</h2>
<p>When choosing between a technical or commercial career path, it&rsquo;s important to establish your key drivers in the workplace. What specifically do you enjoy at work? Are you motivated by technical delivery and project completion? Or are you more interested in working directly with people and speaking to customers?&nbsp;</p>
<p>To help support your understanding, we&rsquo;ve put together two checklists with just a few of the key attributes needed for a successful career in both areas.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>The key attributes of a successful commercial candidate include:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Motivated by KPIs and objectives</li>
<li>Interested in company performance</li>
<li>Interested in the commercial aspects of a product</li>
<li>Strong communicator</li>
<li>Motivated by stakeholder interaction</li>
</ul>
<h3>The key attributes of a successful technical candidate include:</h3>
<ul>
<li>Motivated by a structured work environment</li>
<li>Motivated by recognition for product delivery</li>
<li>Interested in working in a lab environment</li>
<li>Interested in being immersed in technical product delivery</li>
</ul>
<p>When assessing the key drivers behind your career motivations, it&rsquo;s important to consider things from a broader perspective, away from the direct job requirements. If you&rsquo;re moving on from a previous role, take the time to identify what it is about your current job that&rsquo;s inciting you to leave &ndash; whether it be location, company culture, or salary.</p>
<p>For those starting out in their career, think through what environment motivates you most, and assess whether that&rsquo;s reflected by your target organisation&rsquo;s company culture. Alongside this, consider what salary most suits your requirements and education level, as well as what location suits your long-term goals.</p>
<p>Pharmaceutical candidates looking for a greater salary often turn to commercial roles, where target-driven incentives offer the chance to earn a greater salary. Meanwhile, scientists looking for a more hands-on approach to scientific innovation often turn towards more technical positions and build their salary through their experience.</p>
<h2>Career pathways in the pharmaceutical industry</h2>
<p>In my experience as a pharmaceutical recruitment consultant, I&rsquo;ve found that as people working in technical roles progress, their careers naturally steer towards a more commercial role as stakeholder interaction increases with seniority.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Many professionals in technical roles develop their careers as managers and eventually progress upwards into work as a director &ndash; at which point their previously technical role evolves and becomes both commercial and technical.</p>
<p>For those that are dedicated to a technical career, senior technical experts in pharma tend to eventually become subject matter experts in a core specialism. As a technical expert, roles can be more competitive and harder to come by depending on the core specialism, but with the right expertise, often comes a lucrative salary, and a strong career trajectory.&nbsp;</p>
<p>In terms of forging a commercial career, the journey from a technical to a commercial role is common, and often quite seamless. However, if you&rsquo;re away from the hands-on work environment a technical role offers, it can be more challenging to make the transition back to a technical role after some time working in an operational position (this is not to say that it&rsquo;s impossible, but it is uncommon).</p>
<p>When making the transition from a more commercial role to a technical role, I would advise increasing your exposure to as much technical work as possible. In your interview, it&rsquo;s important to reflect your drive and motivation with examples where you can show that you&rsquo;ve worked to establish yourself as a technical subject matter expert.&nbsp;<br><br></p>
<h2>Accelerate your career in Pharma with SRG</h2>
<p>At SRG, we have over 30 years of experience helping candidates across the globe establish successful scientific careers in the pharmaceutical industry.</p>
<p>View <a href="https://www.srgtalent.com/jobs">our latest jobs</a> in pharma below to find your next opportunity.</p>

Strengthen your pharmaceutical career trajectory with expert advice from Behruz Sheikh, Sector Head at Search by SRG

Pharmaceutical Careers - What type of role is right for you?

A great science cover letter is an essential part of the job application process. In this guide, we'll show you how to make your cover letter resonate with hiring managers.

How to write a successful cover letter for science jobs

<p>Home to one of Europe&rsquo;s largest life science clusters, <strong><a href="../../../../../../blog/the-history-of-science-in-scotland">Scotland has a rich history in science innovation</a></strong>&nbsp;and is actively paving the way forward for the future&rsquo;s scientific pioneers.&nbsp;</p>
<p>By 2025, life science companies in Scotland are set to<strong><a href="https://www.talentscotland.com/work/national-programmes/life-sciences?usedevice=d" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">&nbsp;increase sector turnover to &pound;8 billion</a></strong>. This development is being accelerated by the latest&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.lifesciencesscotland.com/vision-for-2025" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Life Sciences Strategy for Scotland 2025 Vision</a></strong>, which aims to make Scotland the location of choice for life science organisations, and scientists across the globe.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Read on to discover how Scotland&rsquo;s life science strategy is activating more opportunities for scientists and businesses. We uncover how five life science companies are bringing their scientific endeavours to fruition across the country today.</p>
<p>This article will explore:</p>
<ul>
<li>What Scotland&rsquo;s Life Science Strategy is</li>
<li>Five innovative life science companies in Scotland</li>
<li>How to accelerate your scientific career in Scotland</li>
</ul>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2>What is Scotland&rsquo;s Life Science Strategy?</h2>
<p>Initially published in 2017, the vision behind&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.lifesciencesscotland.com/vision-for-2025" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Scotland&rsquo;s Life Science Strategy</a></strong>&nbsp;is to bring Scotland to the forefront of the wider life science community, culminating in an increase in the industry&rsquo;s contribution to the Scottish Economy to &pound;8 billion by 2025.&nbsp;</p>
<p>The strategy is built around advancing four key themes:</p>
<ul>
<li>Innovation and Commercialisation</li>
<li>Sustainable Production</li>
<li>Internationalisation</li>
<li>Business Environment</li>
</ul>
<p>So far, established partnerships across academia, health, and the Scottish Government they are on track to make the goal of &pound;8 billion in economic contributions. The success so far is <strong><a href="https://www.lifesciencesscotland.com/vision-for-2025" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">reported by Life Sciences Scotland</a></strong>&nbsp;to be due to &ldquo;a focus on and commitment to all elements critical to the enterprise lifecycle: research, develop, manufacture and commercialise.&rdquo;<br><br></p>
<h2>Five innovative life science companies in Scotland</h2>
<p>Meet five innovative life science companies making the most of Scotland&rsquo;s advanced life science landscape to pioneer new treatments, diagnostics, and medical devices.</p>
<h3>1.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.enterobiotix.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">EnteroBiotix&nbsp;</a></h3>
<p>EnteroBiotix are a leading microbiome therapeutics company with an ambitious vision to transform the care of patients suffering from unmet clinical needs through innovative microbiome-modulating therapeutics. The organisation is based at Aberdeen&rsquo;s Foresterhill Health Campus as well as Glasgow&rsquo;s Strathclyde Business Park.</p>
<p>With a leadership team well versed in pharmaceutical development pathways, the organisation is united by their technical understanding and goal to harness the potential of the microbiome to change care standards and power better clinical results.</p>
<p>Following a recent financing series seeing the organisation raise&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.enterobiotix.com/news/enterobiotix-completes-new-manufacturing-facility-focused-on-gut-microbiome-therapies" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">$21.5 million in funding</a></strong>, the organisation is set to rapidly advance and establish itself even further within the life science space.&nbsp;</p>
<h3>2.&nbsp;<a href="https://www.symbiosis-pharma.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Symbiosis&nbsp;</a></h3>
<p>In 2011, Symbiosis established their facility in the Innovation Park, based in Stirling, Scotland, after being approved for an MIA (IMP) license by the MHRA, which allows the company to manufacture an array of products for global biotechnology clients.</p>
<p>This move, back in 2011, marked the emergence of improved technical capability, quality assurance, and operational flexibility to provide swift access to production slots to speed drug manufacture, enabling critical treatments to reach patients faster.&nbsp;</p>
<p>More than a decade later, Symbiosis have announced new plans to invest &pound;1 million in their in-house analytical and microbiology testing capabilities at their site in Stirling to power their ambitious growth plans.</p>
<p><strong><a href="https://pharmaceuticalmanufacturer.media/pharma-manufacturing-news/pharma-finance-and-investment-news/symbiosis-announces-%C2%A31-million-investment-in-analytical-test/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Colin McKay, CEO of Symbiosis</a></strong>, commented on the investment into site developments, saying, &ldquo;This investment is another clear statement of our continuing ambition to strengthen our service offering in response to the demands from existing clients and to position Symbiosis to attract further global biotechnology and pharmaceutical clients in the future.&rdquo;&nbsp;&nbsp;<br><br></p>
<h3>3.&nbsp;<a href="https://microplatedx.com/home" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Microplate Dx&nbsp;</a></h3>
<p>Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a critical global health problem and is set to account for<strong><a href="https://www.lifesciencesscotland.com/rising-stars/rising-star-stuart-hannah" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">&nbsp;10 million deaths a year by 2050&nbsp;</a></strong>&ndash; more than cancer and diabetes combined.&nbsp;</p>
<p><br>Pioneering diagnostics to improve antibiotic prescribing is vital to mitigate the impact of a probable<strong><a href="../../../../../../blog/avoiding-the-antibiotics-apocalypse---options-for-action" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">&nbsp;&lsquo;antibiotics apocalypse&rsquo;.</a></strong></p>
<p>Microplate Dx are a Glasgow-based organisation set to reform existing diagnostic antibiotic susceptibility testing (AST), accelerating the test process from around two days to just 30 minutes. This diagnostic development will enable clinicians to confidently and accurately prescribe antibiotics to treat patients &ndash; reducing the rate of antimicrobial infection and ultimately saving lives.<br><br></p>
<h3>4.&nbsp;<a href="https://curiaglobal.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Curia&nbsp;</a></h3>
<p>Named after the Latin word for &ldquo;purposeful assembly,&rdquo; Curia play a pivotal role across the wider drug development lifecycle by helping organisations transform their ideas into tangible products to power the future of health..&nbsp;</p>
<p>As a globally established contract research development manufacturing organisation (CDMO), Curia has a high fill-finish capacity for a range of biologics, including those that are hard to fill.),&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p>With 3,100 employees operating across 21 sites in Asia, Europe, the U.S., and Scotland,<strong><a href="https://curiaglobal.com/news/amri-selected-to-support-astrazeneca-in-delivery-of-covid-19-vaccine/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">&nbsp;Curia was well-equipped to support in the COVID-19 vaccination efforts</a></strong>, where the organisation filled and finished &ldquo;millions of doses&rdquo; of AstraZeneca&rsquo;s vaccine.&nbsp;</p>
<p>In Glasgow specifically, Curia handle fill-finish duties for a variety of biologics and medications, including antibody-drug conjugates, monoclonal antibodies, and much more.<br><br></p>
<h3>5.&nbsp;<a href="https://nebuflow.com/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">NebuFlow&nbsp;</a></h3>
<p>Respiratory disorders are the leading cause of death and disability worldwide. (https://www.lifesciencesscotland.com/news/scottish-medtech-company-nebuflow-secures-1-7m-investment)&nbsp;</p>
<p>Fragile, hard-to-nebulise drugs have the potential to transform the lives of patients, should they have proper access to the lungs. However, many life-changing formulations today lack the appropriate methods for direct delivery to the lung, damaging their clinical utility and impact.</p>
<p>NebuFlow are a Glasgow-based organisation set on developing and providing the next generation of nebulisers to activate efficient drug delivery to the lungs and transform the lives of patients across the globe.</p>
<p>Having received&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.lifesciencesscotland.com/news/scottish-medtech-company-nebuflow-secures-1-7m-investment" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">&pound;1.7 million in investment&nbsp;</a></strong>to commercialise and deliver their respiratory pharmaceuticals, the growing organisation is set to realise its vision of transforming drug delivery and the lives of patients across the globe.&nbsp;<br><br></p>
<h2>How to accelerate your scientific career in Scotland</h2>
<p>Feeling inspired to take your career to the next level?</p>
<p>At SRG, our specialist talent consultants are well-versed in Scotland&rsquo;s scientific market and can help you access exciting opportunities across the life science industry.</p>

Discover how life science companies in Scotland are pioneering the future of health with Emma Laurenson

Meet Five Life Science Companies in Scotland Pioneering the Future of Health

<p>Looking for a job on LinkedIn? You&rsquo;re not alone.&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://news.linkedin.com/about-us#Statistics" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">95 job applications are submitted every second&nbsp;</a></strong>on the platform, and just 6 people are hired every minute.&nbsp;</p>
<p>In this saturated talent market, knowing how to make your LinkedIn profile stand out can be key to unlocking opportunities today, and establishing the right scientific network to pave your career progression pathway for the future.&nbsp;</p>
<p>With more than 58 million companies hiring through the platform, and a&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://news.linkedin.com/about-us#Statistics" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">global member base of 850 million</a></strong>, the chances are your next scientific endeavour is just a few clicks away.</p>
<p>Read on to find out:</p>
<ul>
<li>Why LinkedIn is important for scientists</li>
<li>What an All-Star profile looks like on LinkedIn</li>
<li>5 LinkedIn profile essentials for scientists</li>
</ul>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2>Why is LinkedIn Important for scientists?</h2>
<p>While 67% of science PhD students initially want a career in academia, just&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://www.hepi.ac.uk/2020/07/16/new-report-shows-67-of-phd-students-want-a-career-in-academic-research-but-only-30-stay-in-academia-three-years-on/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">30% of this group stay in research 3 years on</a></strong>. The remaining 70% of PhD holders either go into their own research or pursue a career in the wider industry.&nbsp;</p>
<p>This isn&rsquo;t to say that a career in academia and scientific networks aren&rsquo;t important, but it&rsquo;s key to remember that priorities and motivations often alter with time.&nbsp;<br>Whether you choose to work inside, or outside of academia, LinkedIn can be a valuable tool in establishing new networks after scientific conferences, or to strengthen global research connections by directly connecting with your fellow researchers.&nbsp;</p>
<p>LinkedIn can also play a critical role in helping you bridge the gap between your networks and future work opportunities. In just a few clicks you can easily identify where people work, get a glimpse into company culture, and check whether there are any hiring opportunities &ndash; or even message your contact directly to check.<br><br><br></p>
<h2>What is an All-Star profile on LinkedIn?</h2>
<p>LinkedIn uses strength scores to rate individual profiles, ascribing a &lsquo;Beginner&rsquo;, &lsquo;Intermediate&rsquo; and &lsquo;All-Star&rsquo; status according to profile completion level.</p>
<p>An All-Star profile on LinkedIn refers to a profile where all recommended actions have been taken as per the &lsquo;Suggested for you&rsquo; indications. All-Star profiles are important, as profile strength level influences the reach of your posts &ndash; All-Star profiles have<strong><a href="https://premium.linkedin.com/content/dam/premium/jobsearch/PDFAssets/JSS_Playbook.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">&nbsp;1.5x normal reach.&nbsp;</a></strong></p>
<p>What&rsquo;s more, according to LinkedIn, applicants with All-Star profiles are&nbsp;<strong><a href="https://premium.linkedin.com/content/dam/premium/jobsearch/PDFAssets/JSS_Playbook.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">40x more likely to receive opportunities through LinkedIn.</a></strong></p>
<p>Generally, the key components you&rsquo;re looking to complete for an All-Star status include:</p>
<ul>
<li>Profile photo &ndash; a profile photo showing you alone (no group images), with a simple background can increase your likelihood of being found by recruiters on the platform by 7x.</li>
<li>Education &ndash; Connect with your fellow alumni and showcase your academic achievements</li>
<li>Skills and Expertise &ndash; Skills and Expertise can be listed to make it clear what you do and can help you show up for technical searches.</li>
<li>Experience &ndash; Including just your two most recent positions makes it 12x more likely that a recruiter finds your platform</li>
<li>Recommendations &ndash; Ask your previous clients, co-workers or business partners to write recommendations of your work to boost your credibility.&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<h2><br>5 LinkedIn profile essentials for scientists&nbsp;</h2>
<h3>1.&nbsp;Detail your skills and experience</h3>
<p>Recruiters use a special version of LinkedIn called &lsquo;LinkedIn Recruiter&rsquo; to search for candidates, where we can perform keyword searches to find the profiles of people that best match the jobs we&rsquo;re hiring for. This process mirrors the way recruiters search for CVs through job boards, as mentioned in our past article.&nbsp;</p>
<p>As recruiters filter by skills-associated keywords, it&rsquo;s critical for scientific candidates to include keywords of any techniques or specialist skills within their profile. You can do this through the &lsquo;Skills&rsquo; section (endorsements aren&rsquo;t critical so don&rsquo;t worry about listing skills without them). You can also use the &lsquo;Summary&rsquo; section to go into further detail about your overall experience and key areas of interest.&nbsp;</p>
<p>I would also recommend including a short description of your duties under each job you list in the &lsquo;Experience&rsquo; section, and details about your course under &lsquo;Education&rsquo;.<br><br></p>
<h3>2.&nbsp;Broaden your network</h3>
<p>Having very few, or even no connections, can make it difficult for recruiters to find your profile, due to the way searching works via LinkedIn Recruiter. It&rsquo;s important to try to build a network of co-workers past and present, researchers, collaborators, mentors, people who were on your course at university, and even friends.&nbsp;</p>
<p>You don&rsquo;t necessarily need to add hundreds of people immediately, especially if you&rsquo;re just starting out in your career, but you should slowly build this up as your career progresses. A good starting point to aim for is 75-100 connections.</p>
<p>As you build this network, you can ask previous or current colleagues/managers/clients/academic supervisors to write you a recommendation. While recommendations aren&rsquo;t essential, they can boost your credibility to employers. You can send people a message asking for a LinkedIn recommendation on the &ldquo;Recommendations&rdquo; section of your LinkedIn profile. When asking for these I&rsquo;d be mindful not to pressure or pester people. Additionally, if you ask your current managers for recommendations, they may suspect that you&rsquo;re looking for other work.<br><br></p>
<h3>3.&nbsp;Showcase your education</h3>
<p>It&rsquo;s important to include a complete educational history in your profile, particularly as a scientist. If you&rsquo;ve attained any awards or certificates, you can add these in the &lsquo;Licences and Certifications&rsquo; or &lsquo;Honours and Awards&rsquo; sections as appropriate.</p>
<p>Additionally, if your work has been published in any journals, you can detail this within the &lsquo;Publications&rsquo; section, adding details of your project, as well as any scientific posters as a pdf, to improve the visibility of your work to prospective connections and employers.</p>
<h3>4.&nbsp;Be attentive, and respond to messages</h3>
<p>If you respond to recruiters&rsquo; InMails, the LinkedIn Recruiter system often shows you as &lsquo;more likely to respond&rsquo; when looking at your profile. This means that you&rsquo;re more noticeable to recruiters, and improves your chances of being messaged by recruiters, or even companies directly, with opportunities. It's good practice to respond to messages, even if it&rsquo;s to politely voice your disinterest in a position, to provide you with that advantage.</p>
<h3>5.&nbsp;Keep your profile up to date.</h3>
<p>A final factor to consider is keeping on top of employment dates. Often, profiles on LinkedIn don&rsquo;t include the end dates for their different positions, so their profiles appear to say that the person is working in nearly 10 different jobs at once. This isn&rsquo;t a deal breaker for recruiters, but profiles that are neater and more organised give a better first impression and can help you stand out from the crowd.</p>

Make sure your LinkedIn profile stands out from the crowd with expert advice.

How to Make Your LinkedIn Profile Stand Out as a Scientist

<h3>With many employees working remotely due to the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, knowing how to get the most out of the situation is vital for the workforce's productivity and wellbeing.</h3>
<p>While the idea of working from home&nbsp;<em>sounds</em>&nbsp;appealing, in reality, many of us find it a daunting prospect. Without being surrounded by colleagues for encouragement and empowerment, how are we meant to stay engaged and productive for a prolonged period of time?</p>
<p>On top of this, many workers find themselves confused by their employer&rsquo;s remote working policy. In SRG&rsquo;s&nbsp;<a href="../../../../../../insights/stem-survey">2020 STEM Survey</a>, over 50% of respondents working in the STEM sector were aware of their company&rsquo;s policy around flexible working and working from home, but their ability to access the policy was dependent on their management&rsquo;s interpretation of it.</p>
<p>Of course, it&rsquo;s easy to see why letting people work from home can raise leadership&rsquo;s anxiety levels. Out of sight does not necessarily mean out of mind, and many managers harbour legitimate concerns about the productivity levels of their team when left to their own devices. Thankfully, there are ways such concerns can be addressed.</p>
<p>By nurturing a positive company culture in which internal communications related to work-from-home policies are clear, consistent and avoid being condescending, senior leadership can engender a high level of trust around the subject.</p>
<p>As Kelly Morton, SRG&rsquo;s Managing Director comments:</p>
<p><em>&ldquo;<strong>Everything starts with culture.</strong>&nbsp;At SRG, we have built a business based around putting people first, and creating people strategies around working practices is part of this. While enabling this requires placing a lot of trust in your people, strategies and processes that mitigate potential breaches of trust can easily be implemented.&rdquo;</em></p>
<p dir="ltr">From an individual point of view, a number of small changes to routine can make WFH a more productive and rewarding experience for employees and businesses alike. Before we delve into them in more detail, here are some of the upsides to remote working.</p>
<p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>The benefits of working from home</strong></h2>
<h3 dir="ltr"><strong>1) Flexibility</strong></h3>
<p dir="ltr">Once an individual has established working hours with their employer, working from home gives them greater autonomy in both&nbsp;where and&nbsp;<em>how</em>&nbsp;they work. As a general rule, however, remote workers should work according to their organisation&rsquo;s standard hours and cover the core hours to meet business needs.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><strong>2) Improved productivity</strong></h3>
<p dir="ltr">Contrary to popular belief, recent studies support the idea that working from home actually<em>&nbsp;<a href="https://www.businessnewsdaily.com/15259-working-from-home-more-productive.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">improves</a></em><a href="https://www.businessnewsdaily.com/15259-working-from-home-more-productive.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">&nbsp;productivity</a>&nbsp;and also reduces stress. People report having more energy due to less commuting and feel more engrossed in their tasks thanks to fewer interruptions and less noise.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><strong>3) Greater job satisfaction</strong></h3>
<p dir="ltr"><a href="https://archive.acas.org.uk/media/3905/Homeworking---a-guide-for-employers-and-employees/pdf/Homeworking-a-guide-for-employers-and-employees.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">An Acas report</a>&nbsp;showed that its &ldquo;employees who worked from home tended to feel happier in their roles than the staff in the office.&rdquo; This can be attributed to less supervision, greater freedom to move around, increased productivity and less commuting-related stress.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><strong>4) Time and cost savings</strong></h3>
<p dir="ltr">In the United States, the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.census.gov/library/visualizations/interactive/travel-time.html" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">average one-way commuting time is 26.1 minutes</a>. This means that most people spend up to an hour a day commuting. Aside from taking valuable time out of the working day, commuting also adds up financially. In the UK, the average commuter spends&nbsp;<a href="https://www.yourmoney.com/household-bills/british-workers-spend-492-days-of-their-lives-travelling-to-work/" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">almost &pound;70 a month on travelling to and from work</a>. Working from home frees up time and saves people and businesses money.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><strong>5) Improved work-life balance</strong></h3>
<p dir="ltr">By eliminating the commuting time, having control over the workplace environment and optimising the working day, WFH employees can dedicate more time to non-work activities. Greater work-life balance prevents burnout, irritability and stress &mdash; and creates a happier workforce. And, generally speaking, when people are happier, they are more productive on the job.</p>
<p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>How to make working from home work for you</strong></h2>
<h3 dir="ltr"><strong>Create a boundary between work life and home life &gt;</strong></h3>
<p dir="ltr">When working from home on a regular basis, it&rsquo;s important to create a clear distinction between work and leisure. Responding to emails on the sofa may be fine for a while, but quickly becomes uncomfortable and over time will likely affect your posture and wellbeing.</p>
<p>By creating a separate office environment, you&rsquo;ll retain the professional and productive atmosphere of a more traditional workspace &mdash; but also have more privacy and be free of distraction.</p>
<p>Firstly, you need to identify the best place to set up your home office. If you have a rarely-used spare room that doubles up as storage space, then this could be a good option. If you are pushed for space, a kitchen or dining room table serves well.</p>
<p>(If you don&rsquo;t have a spare room and working from home has become business-as-usual, you could consider building an office in your back garden instead. Of course, this depends on budgets, but converted sheds and shipping containers are spacious enough to house an office without taking up too much garden space).</p>
<p>Secondly, it&rsquo;s important to allocate time for non-work responsibilities. Usually take an hour for lunch in the office? Do the same at home. Usually finish up at 5pm on the dot? Aim to shut your laptop at that time.</p>
<p>While it can be tempting to try and get some errands done while working from home (e.g putting the washing on, tidying up or cleaning the kitchen), make sure it doesn&rsquo;t eat into your pre-planned working hours.</p>
<p>On the flip side, make sure you properly switch off at the end of the working day. Without a commute to worry about, it can often be appealing to work long into the evening. However, this merely eats into personal or family time and can negatively affect your sleep schedule.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><strong>Maximise what you already have &gt;</strong></h3>
<p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p>
<p>Ideally, you need to be free from distractions. If you can&rsquo;t create your own work zone and have to share with other family members or cohabitants, have a frank discussion around how you like to work and reach as many compromises as possible. This will help make for a smoother, more productive day.</p>
<p>Thankfully, most work nowadays is carried out and stored digitally and/or online. However, if you need to store paper copies for documents, maximise your space by storing paperwork in file dividers or boxes.</p>
<p>Finally, it&rsquo;s important that your workstation is optimised for performance and productivity. If you can, set up your desk near a window, invest in an ergonomic chair for comfort and make sure any accessories are not disruptive to your workflow. Ensure your lighting keeps you awake and alert while reducing eye strain, and aim to maintain a room temperature of between between 16C and 24C.</p>
<h3 dir="ltr"><strong>Be mindful of your mental health &gt;</strong></h3>
<p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p>
<p>When we don&rsquo;t have an office to show up to, we miss out on opportunities for regular social interaction and connection with colleagues. As the Chicago-based clinical psychologist, Ryan Hooper told the&nbsp;<a href="https://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/entry/working-from-home-mental-health_n_5afd88e2e4b0a59b4e014602?guccounter=1&amp;guce_referrer=aHR0cHM6Ly93d3cuZ29vZ2xlLmNvbS8&amp;guce_referrer_sig=AQAAAL9ELcpSDSiQmQO3FV0hk414a53Mpf3Ab53z7RdgrtCVIgFA5sQnl3uoS2ayJCHL6ub4d40oRPAVJOtUcfhf1LpeOolIdi_MYgatfZazZQ6IMw85-6JPZnDV9VU8P1mONHNTeA2wnDut8a24Hqlwf_JFHeHg58TD-txNW4HwA6gK" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">Huffington Post</a>, &ldquo;for some people, the feedback and encouragement loop of the work environment is critical to their jobs.&rdquo; Indeed, a&nbsp;<a href="https://buffer.com/state-of-remote-work-2019" target="_blank" rel="noopener noreferrer">2019 report by the software development agency Buffer</a>&nbsp;found that loneliness was the second-most reported challenge for remote workers.</p>
<p>While businesses need to ensure their online communication strategy is in place to keep teams as united and in the loop as possible, the actions of individuals can also bolster interactions and help to reduce feelings of isolation.</p>
<p>Setting up daily Skype video calls at structured times, for example, will help to reintegrate workers who are used to face-to-face interactions. The video aspect is important because managers and team leaders will be able to visually monitor how their team is fairing.</p>
<p dir="ltr">Aside from regular check-ins with colleagues, it&rsquo;s important to keep your spirits up and your mind calm. Exercise is one such way to give your brain and body a much-needed boost (if you're self-isolating, indoor exercises such as push-ups and yoga are a good substitute for outdoor activities such as jogging), as is meditation. Keeping plants and family photos around your workstation can also give you a boost.</p>
<p dir="ltr">&nbsp;</p>
<h2><strong>The key takeaways</strong></h2>
<p>These are undoubtedly stressful times. For many people, getting to grips with a new WFH arrangement is only adding to the stress. As Alison Jones, Regional Manager at SRG acknowledges:</p>
<p><em>&ldquo;Working from home might lead to increased anxiety or stress because of the perceived pressure to appear busy. People can start to feel like they need to be constantly online, making themselves available or otherwise prove that they are spending their time productively.&rdquo;</em></p>
<p>With a few small changes, however, remote working can be something of a blessing amid the constant news cycle. To summarise:</p>
<ul>
<li><strong>Establish a work zone.&nbsp;</strong>Creating a working environment that&rsquo;s conducive to productivity will help you focus and maintain your wellbeing.</li>
<li><strong>Stick to a routine.&nbsp;</strong>A consistent routine can punctuate the day and halt unhelpful procrastination. Set clearly defined working hours and try not to work outside of them. Dressing slightly smarter than you would when relaxing at home can also help you feel more professional and engaged.</li>
<li><strong>Practice self-care.&nbsp;</strong>Make time for exercise and relaxation. You need to be able to disconnect from work at times in the day to help you feel refreshed and motivated.</li>
</ul>
<h4><em>Working from home is undoubtedly new territory for many of us. But through organisation, self-motivation and constant communication, we can give each other the necessary support to make it fruitful.<br><br>For in-depth insights into the world of STEM and advice on how to future-proof your business,&nbsp;</em><a href="../../../../../../insights/guides-and-reports"><strong><em>read our industry guides and reports &gt;</em></strong></a></h4>

In light of the ongoing COVID-19 global pandemic, knowing how to get the most out of the situation is vital for our productivity and wellbeing.

A guide to working from home during COVID-19

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<p class="MsoNormal">People are the heart of our culture at SRG. We approach work from a knowledgeable, transparent, and proactive perspective, integrating our core values throughout everything we do.</p>

<h3>Join Our Team</h3>
<p>People. Lead. Growth. Three simple words. That&rsquo;s the secret to our people-centric approach.</p>

<h2>Our Unparalleled Expertise</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>When you partner with SRG, you&rsquo;re not just getting recruiters; we&rsquo;re industry insiders who are well-versed in the needs and challenges of your field.</p><p>We have over 30 years experience of serving STEM industries. We understand what job seekers and employers are looking to achieve, and what they need to get there. Our industry experts draw on their technical and scientific backgrounds alongside the latest technology to create impactful staffing and recruitment solutions for any STEM job.</p>

<h2>Why Choose SRG?</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>At SRG, we pride ourselves in our ability to flex, adapt and work in close collaboration with our clients to create tailor-made talent solutions aligning with business objectives. Whether you&rsquo;re looking for temporary, contract or permanent staff, we have the expertise to handle projects of all sizes and requirements.</p><p>As specialists within STEM; we understand the intricacies of building a strong and stable STEM workforce. Entrusting SRG as your dedicated recruitment provider, you will have complete assurance that you are in capable hands. We are committed to helping you not only enhance your operational efficiency but reduce your costs too.</p>

<h2>Latest News, Events, and Insights</h2>

<p>Comprehensive STEM Recruitment Services for Temporary, Contract and Permanent Needs</p>

<h2>Is SRG Ad-hoc Staffing Solutions right for my business?</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>If you're seeking flexibility in managing workforce needs without the commitment of long-term hires, SRG Ad-hoc Staffing Solutions may be the perfect fit. Ideal for businesses needing specialised skills for short-term projects or to handle peak demands, ad-hoc staffing offers access to skilled professionals.</p><p>SRG provides tailored staffing solutions designed to fit your unique requirements. You'll find a partner in us who understands that one size doesn't fit all in staffing.&nbsp;</p><p>Complete the form to find out more.</p>

<h1>Business Recruitment Solutions</h1><h3><strong>Partner with the leading STEM recruitment agency</strong></h3><p>Your standards and expectations are high. So are ours. We know what matters, so that&rsquo;s what we focus on. You can rely on us to build relationships, tailor solutions and champion talent, whilst adapting, flexing, and collaborating with you to create the talent solutions required.</p>

    <h1>Candidate FAQ</h1>             <p>               Are you a candidate and have a question for us? Check below for               our frequently asked questions for our top candidate enquiries to               streamline the job application process for all candidates. From               application updates to locked accounts, you can find your answer               here.             </p>

<h3><strong>What To Expect When Working With SRG:</strong></h3><ul><li>Clear communication across the process – both with you as a partner and with every candidate.</li><li>Access to the best talent in the Commercial STEM industry.</li><li>A powerful candidate attraction strategy, tailored to your organisation.</li><li>Support with screening and shortlisting.</li><li>Guidance with interviewing, offers and negotiation.</li><li>Full transparency through regular meetings and reports.</li></ul><h5>&nbsp;</h5><h3><strong>Recruitment services offered for commercial STEM companies:</strong></h3><ul><li>Contingency</li><li>Statement of Work (SOW)</li><li>Temporary / Contract / Interim</li><li>Retained</li><li>Tailored Solutions</li></ul><p>As market leaders, we have the resources and expertise to support all organisations – from start-ups to world-leading organisations, in navigating the evolving talent market.</p><p><strong>Partner with SRG today and experience the difference our expertise can make in your recruitment strategy.</strong></p>

<h3>Expect Expert Guidance From Our Commercial Team</h3><p>We are committed to creating rewarding relationships with our partners and provide dedicated consultants who work collaboratively to ensure project delivery success.</p><p>Once we&rsquo;ve determined your hiring requirements, we&rsquo;ll help you shape a tailored recruitment strategy to discover skilled candidates and provide expert guidance to ensure the right hire is always made.</p><p>At SRG, we work with our clients to provide hiring solutions to suit every hiring requirement, from the most niche executive search to larger hiring solutions for contract and permanent roles.</p>

<h4>We provide value to companies working across the STEM industry supporting an expansive range of roles across:</h4><div><strong>Commercial:</strong></div><ul><li>Business Development</li><li>Sales</li><li>Account Management</li><li>Procurement &amp; Purchasing</li><li>Commercial Operations</li><li>Commercial Finance</li><li>Strategy</li><li>Data Analytics</li><li>Marketing</li></ul><div><div><strong>Management:</strong></div></div><ul><li>Product Management</li><li>Digital Transformation</li><li>Senior Sales Operations</li><li>Senior Sales</li><li>Market Access</li><li>C-Suite</li></ul><p>As an international organisation, our Commercial Recruitment Teams span the UK, US, Ireland and the greater EMEA region.</p>

<h2>Your specialist STEM Recruitment Partner</h2><p>In addition to our leading STEM recruitment services, SRG offers comprehensive commercial recruitment solutions. By broadening our service portfolio, we empower clients to access a diverse talent pool while enjoying a seamless, client-focused recruitment process.</p><p>At SRG, we aspire to be your preferred collaborative partner across all functions, delivering tailored solutions to meet the evolving needs of the STEM industry. Our dedicated consultants leverage our leading talent network to drive organisational growth through successful hires.</p>

<p>Discover top-tier STEM and commercial recruitment solutions with SRG, a trusted leader in talent acquisition. With a focus on excellence, we specialise in connecting businesses with the <span data-preserver-spaces="true">industry's&nbsp;</span>best candidates through our extensive and ever-expanding talent network.</p>

<h2>Do you work for SRG?</h2>
<p>If you are working for SRG and have a question about your assignment, payment or timesheet, then please contact the Ask team at ask@impellam.com or phone 03333 23 24 50.</p>
<h2>General Enquiries</h2>
<p>For general enquiries, please contact 020 3912 7416.</p>

<h1>Contact Us</h1>
<p>Whether you are looking for your next job opportunity, or seeking talent to join your team, we will help find the right solutions for you.</p>

<h2>Get in Touch!</h2><p>Do you need to speak to an SRG Contractor Care team member? We will answer your questions quickly, from information on payments to how to submit your timesheets. We&rsquo;ll do our best to give you up-to-date, informed, and helpful answers about working through SRG as a contractor.</p><p>&nbsp;</p><h5>Alternatively, please email:</h5>

<p>For all other enquiries, please complete our form or reach out to us on <a href="tel:02039109446">02039109446</a>.</p>

<h2>Contractor Portal</h2><p>The Contractor Portal is your single repository for logging timesheets and raising invoices.</p>

<h2>Ask Contractor Care</h2><p>At SRG, we put people first. Building trust through genuine, honest relationships is one of our core values and underpins everything we do. Our Contractor Care team is all about resolving problems quickly, helpfully, and at the source.</p><p>If you&rsquo;re a current contractor with SRG and have a question, concern, or request, get in touch using the form below, and our Contractor Care team will respond within 24 hours. The team will provide expert guidance and support on almost any recruitment-related subject.</p>

<h1>Contractors</h1><p>As an established staffing partner to our amazing client companies, your success is our top priority. We&rsquo;re here to support our Contractors every step of the way in your career with SRG.&nbsp;</p><p>Whether you are a new starter or a career contractor, SRG is your trusted Recruitment Contractor advisor. We provide you with personal, responsive attention and will assign an employee care representative to answer any questions you might have.</p>

<h1>CSR &amp; Partnerships</h1><p>SRG's purpose is to unlock untapped potential in people, jobs and data to enhance the now and shape the future. We’re committed to creating a better future for everyone, and helping people to realise their potential.</p><p>We believe in supporting the STEM industry to tackle the skills shortage, creating equal opportunities and access to resources. SRG is a specialist scientific recruitment business, and as part of the Impellam Group, we work closely with our sister brands, Lorien (technology and digital recruitment) and Carbon60 (engineering recruitment), to facilitate the whole STEM sector.</p>

<h3>Our Approach to Executive Search Recruitment</h3>
<p>Search by SRG is flexible, transparent and agile, offering a range of specialist, tailored solutions including:</p>
<p>&bull; &nbsp; &nbsp;Technical and Executive Search<br>&bull; &nbsp; &nbsp;Market insights and reporting<br>&bull; &nbsp; &nbsp;Salary insights and benchmarking<br>&bull; &nbsp; &nbsp;High-end interim and consultants<br>&bull; &nbsp; &nbsp;Project recruitment campaigns<br>&bull; &nbsp; &nbsp;Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI)</p>
<p>We get to know your organisation&rsquo;s culture, values, and aspirations, then assign dedicated experts to develop a tailored strategy. Our data-driven recruitment process offers real-time insights and transparency, ensuring you find the right fit for your company.</p>

<h2>Achieve Results with our Executive and Technical Search Solutions</h2>
<p>Driven by data intelligence, our expertise in STEM recruitment and resourcing makes Search by SRG a market-leading service designed to find, hire and retain top talent for STEM businesses.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<h2>What is Executive Search?</h2>
<p>Executive Search is a specialised recruitment service that identifies and secures top-level talent for senior executive and technical positions. Our dedicated team offers innovative solutions to match unique skills with the needs of organisations, focusing on project-based hiring and securing senior technical appointments across various industries, including pharmaceuticals, life sciences, medical, AI, engineering and medtech.</p>

<h2>Why Search by SRG?</h2>
<p>Working with Search by SRG means driving your project forward with the passion and knowledge of dedicated experts from the STEM industries and executive search recruitment. The benefits of our executive solutions include:</p>
<ul class="mb-5">
<li>A dedicated research team with every project</li>
<li>Access to real-time market intelligence and data-driven solutions</li>
<li>Insights from technical and personality assessment tools</li>
<li>Dedicated project management support and weekly review meetings</li>
<li>Variable attraction campaigns tailored to your needs</li>
<li>The knowledge, passion and drive of our experts</li>
</ul>
<h2>Partner with Search by SRG Today</h2>
<p>Experience the difference our expertise as a leading executive placement agency can make. Get in touch to discuss your executive and technical search needs and discover how we can help your business thrive.</p>

<h2>Latest News, Events, and Insights</h2>
<p>Our Life Sciences expertise and partnership-led approach allows us to deliver highly successful results for our clients so they can attract and retain unique talent for their business. Explore our latest collection of case studies, news, events, and insights from SRG.&nbsp;</p>

<p>Search by SRG is a leading executive recruitment service connecting you with the best middle and senior technical heads and managers in STEM fields. Our data-driven executive and technical search solutions deliver tailored recruitment strategies for your organisation's success.</p>

<p>The content you are searching for is no longer available</p>

<h2>Need help starting your STEM career?</h2><p>Utilising decades of experience and a deep understanding of the STEM careers and the job market, SRG connects talented graduates with top employers across the STEM industires, whilst supprting you with advice on CV content, interview preparation, how to stand out from the crowd and much more.</p><p>Our extensive network includes renowned companies, innovative start-ups, and exciting SMEs, offering roles that match your skills and aspirations.</p><h3>How we can help you</h3><p>CV Registration: Submit your CV and get noticed by potential employers who are looking for fresh talent.</p><p>Latest Job Listings: Stay updated with regularly updated job openings for STEM graduates, including roles that align with your qualifications, interests and career goals.</p><p>Career Guidance: Enhance your employability with SRG&rsquo;s expert advice on CV writing, interview preparation, and career development and stand out in a competitive market.</p>

<h1>Graduates</h1><p>Our specialist recruitment team, working with hundreds of companies across the UK who are looking to hire graduates, are dedicated to helping you navigate this journey with confidence and ease.</p>

<div>
<h2>Thank you for applying to a GSK Summer Placement role!</h2>
<p>Welcome to the first stage of the recruitment process &ndash; the eligibility questionnaire. You will be asked a series of questions to establish your eligibility for the role.</p>
<p>We would advise allocating 15 minutes to complete. Please ensure your responses are a true reflection of yourself.</p>
<p>If you are successful in passing eligibility, you will be invited to the next stage of the process, the World of GSK assessment. There are three stages in total to pass in order to be considered for this role:</p>
<ul>
<li>Eligibility questionnaire</li>
<li>World of GSK assessment</li>
<li>HireVue written assessment</li>
</ul>
<p>If you require an adjustment to the process in order to enable you to perform your best, please get in contact with us on <a href="mailto:GSKEarlyTalent@srgtalent.com" target="_blank" rel="noopener">GSKEarlyTalent@srgtalent.com</a> or call 01582 692870.</p>
<p>If you have any questions regarding the recruitment process or the role itself, please do not hesitate to get in touch.</p>
<p>Good luck!</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<strong data-olk-copy-source="MessageBody">Chatbot not visible?&nbsp;</strong><span style="color: rgb(172, 20, 90);"><a style="color: rgb(172, 20, 90);" title="https://bot.leadoo.com/bot/inpage.html?code=w70q18a6bmbmr39i" href="https://bot.leadoo.com/bot/inpage.html?code=w70q18a6bmbmr39i" target="_blank" rel="noopener" data-auth="NotApplicable" data-linkindex="0"><strong>Click here to complete your application &gt;</strong></a></span></div>
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<h2>Powering the Future of STEM</h2>
<p>Together, we create world-class communities that empower individuals and businesses to shape tomorrow&rsquo;s world.</p>

<h2>Explore Our Latest Jobs</h2>
<p><span style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255); color: rgb(43, 42, 41);">Find the best STEM career opportunities:&nbsp;</span></p>

<h2>Latest News, Events &amp; Insights</h2>
<p>Our Life Sciences expertise and partnership-led approach allows us to deliver highly successful results for our clients so they can attract and retain unique talent for their business. Explore our latest collection of case studies, news, events, and insights from SRG.&nbsp;</p>

<p>As a global STEM network, we apply our specialist industry knowledge to the full spectrum of roles and talent solutions. We recruit across the product life cycle, from scientific research and technology, clinical trials, manufacturing, and engineering disciplines to market access. We have over 30 years of experience in taking projects from discovery to completion and developing bespoke solutions to help unlock new ways of working and thinking.</p>

Industry Leaders in Life <br> Science, Engineering and Clinical Recruitment

<h5>The Global STEM Salary Survey 2024: Helping to shape STEM’s future</h5><p> SRG’s annual Global Life Science, Clinical and Engineering Insights Survey is created – in association with New Scientist Jobs – to gain and provide such knowledge and insights, help us benchmark vital data and discover the information STEM companies need to deliver fair, competitive and – most importantly – attractive salaries and employment prospects.</p><p> Click the link below to take part – as a thank you, all respondents who complete the survey will be entered to win a £250 Amazon voucher.</p>

Take the survey

<h5>The Global STEM Salary Survey 2024: Helping to shape STEM's future</h5><p><br></p><p>SRG’s annual Global Life Science, Clinical and Engineering Insights Survey is created – in association with New Scientist Jobs – to gain and provide such knowledge and insights, help us benchmark vital data and discover the information STEM companies need to deliver fair, competitive and – most importantly – attractive salaries and employment prospects.</p><p><br></p><p>Click the link below to take part – as a thank you, all respondents who complete the survey will be entered to win a £250 Amazon voucher.</p>

<h2>Latest News, Events &amp; Insights</h2>

<h1>Insights</h1><p>Our Life Sciences expertise and partnership-led approach allows us to provide unique insight into industry trends. Explore our latest collection of case studies, news, events, and insights from SRG.</p>

<p>Contact us if you are interested in finding out more about how we can help you.</p>

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<h2>Industry-Leading Positions in Clinical &amp; Quality, Regulatory &amp; Compliance Fields</h2><p>Find our latest life sciences career opportunities.</p>

<h2>Latest News, Events, and Insights</h2><p>Our tech expertise and partner-led approach allows us to deliver highly successful results for our clients so they can attract and retain unique talent for their business. Explore our latest collection of case studies, news, events, and insights</p>

<h1>Shaping the Future of STEM</h1><p>As technological advancements accelerate, new fields emerge, and competition intensifies, the demand for professionals within STEM industries continues to outpace the available talent pool.</p><p>Utilising our outstanding client portfolio our dedicated team of consultant will provide you with amazing opportunities that will enable you to flourish in your career</p>

<h2>Want to be featured as an Employer?</h2><p>SRG will feature your company as one to work for! Reach out to us today to learn more.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Join Our Talent Network</h2><p>Are you looking to take the next steps in your Life Sciences career? Register your resume on this form and let our recruitment team find your next opportunity!</p>

<h2>Get in Touch</h2><p>Complete for form below and we will be in touch!</p>

<h3>Send Us Your CV/Resume</h3><p>Unlock the untapped potential in people, jobs, and data to enhance the now and shape the future.</p>

<h1>Join Our Team</h1><p>If you're looking for an environment to grow and develop in your career while delivering excellence to your clients and candidates, SRG is the place for you. Developing alongside creative and driven colleagues, you'll have the opportunity to work with a range of dynamic clients, from top-ten pharma organisations to start-up MedTech companies.</p>

<h2>Get in Touch</h2><p>Do you have a question? Leave it with SRG.</p>

<h2>Newsletter Sign up</h2><p>SRG are industry leaders and work with 3rd party vendors for market intelligence</p>

<div><p>Whether it&rsquo;s the tightening of budgets, pressure to work with existing or even dwindling resources, or the influence of emerging technologies, Lab Leaders are facing a variety of significant challenges and changes in the day-to-day operation of their laboratories.</p><p>To better understand these challenges and what can be done to address them, <strong>Synergy by SRG surveyed over 1,000 laboratory leaders </strong>for their insights into current concerns and future expectations. This data-driven research provides a comprehensive overview of the current landscape, with strategies to help lab leaders drive innovation and efficiency to thrive in 2025. &nbsp;</p><p><strong>Download the Lab Leader Vision report now for valuable insights, as well as advice and guidance from experts, on:&nbsp;</strong></p><ul><li>Talent attraction and retention &nbsp;</li><li>Skills and expertise gaps&nbsp;</li><li>Efficiency and operational challenges&nbsp;</li><li>Technology, automation and digitisation</li></ul></div>

<div><p>Whether it&rsquo;s the tightening of budgets, pressure to work with existing or even dwindling resources, or the influence of emerging technologies, Lab Leaders are facing a variety of significant challenges and changes in the day-to-day operation of their laboratories.</p><p>To better understand these challenges and what can be done to address them, <strong>Synergy by SRG</strong> <strong>surveyed over 1,000 laboratory leaders</strong> for their insights into current concerns and future expectations. This data-driven research provides a comprehensive overview of the current landscape, with strategies to help lab leaders drive innovation and efficiency to thrive in 2025. &nbsp;</p><p><strong>Download the Lab Leaders Vision report now for valuable insights, as well as advice and guidance from experts, on:&nbsp;</strong></p><ul><li>Talent attraction and retention &nbsp;</li><li>Skills and expertise gaps&nbsp;</li><li>Efficiency and operational challenges&nbsp;</li><li>Technology, automation and digitisation&nbsp;</li></ul><h2>Want to know more about<a class="customLink" href="https://www.srgtalent.com/synergy-scientific-solutions"> Synergy Scientific Solutions</a>?&nbsp;</h2><p>If you, like many lab leaders we asked as part of this survey, are concerned about the efficiency, expertise and output of your laboratory, Synergy are ready to provide the expertise and strategies required to tackle these challenges. &nbsp;</p><p>Contact us today for a confidential, obligation-free discussion at: synergyqueries@srgtalent.com&nbsp;</p></div>

<h2>Our Team</h2>
<p>Our highly skilled teams fully integrate into your working environment, adhering to your standard operating procedures. This allows you to maintain visibility and control, whilst retaining the freedom to check in with our team as much or as little as you&rsquo;d like. Most of our staff are on permanent contracts and we strive to upskill and cross-train our teams to ensure our customers always benefit from workforce stability and high engagement, as we strive to reduce the challenges of resourcing demands.&nbsp;</p>

<h1>Meet the Team</h1><p>Meet our team of empowering, determined and innovative individuals working across the globe for SRG.</p><p>Based in the United Kingdom, with offices in Birmingham, Cambridge, Glasgow, London, Luton, and Manchester, and in Ireland, Europe, and the United States, you’ll find our friendly faces in regions far and wide.</p><p>And no matter which location you’re in, each SRG environment is the same – one that’s designed to help our people thrive, working and developing alongside like-minded, creative, and driven colleagues.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Get in Touch</h2>
<p>Whether you are looking for your next job opportunity, or seeking talent to join your team, we will help find the right solutions for you.</p>

<h2>Work with us</h2>
<p>If you're looking for an environment to grow and develop in your career while delivering excellence to your clients and candidates, SRG is the place for you.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>What are the core pillars of a managed service programme or contingent workforce solution?</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>By using a vendor management system, a robust managed service programme provides complete oversight into the status of each contingent worker at your company &mdash; optimising contingent workforce management and driving performance through people, processes, and technology.</p><details><summary>The core components of a managed service programme include:</summary><ul><li>Management of the non-permanent workforce (timesheets, payroll, etc.)</li><li>Qualified pools of talented candidates</li><li>An efficient recruitment process</li><li>Supplier management</li><li>Contract management</li><li>Candidate selection</li><li>Data-driven analysis</li><li>Invoice management</li><li>Frequent progress reports</li><li>Business reviews</li><li>Payrolling</li><li>HR management</li><li>Metrics dashboard</li></ul></details>

<h2>What is a Managed Service Provider (MSP)?</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>A managed service provider (MSP) or contingent workforce solution (CWS), manages the temporary worker recruitment for an organisation and is responsible for the end-to-end management of the contingent workforce - from supplier management and strategic workforce planning to contractor care and offboarding.</p><p>In the recruitment industry, the term &lsquo;MSP&rsquo; can refer to either a managed service programme OR a managed service provider. The difference between the two is that a managed service programme is a contingent workforce solution (CWS), while a managed service provider is a specialist who delivers this solution.</p><p>In other words, &lsquo;managed service programme&rsquo; and &lsquo;contingent workforce solution&rsquo; can be used interchangeably to describe the service offered by a managed service provider like SRG. To avoid further confusion, we&rsquo;ll stick to full terms from here on out.</p>

<h2>What are the benefits of a managed service provider or contingent workforce solution?</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>In an increasingly competitive contingent talent market, turning to a managed service programme brings several key benefits to a business.</p><details class="mce-accordion"><summary><strong>Control</strong></summary><p>Hiring managers can easily acquire strong talent thanks to streamlined, standardised processes across all suppliers &mdash; driving down time-to-hire.</p></details><details class="mce-accordion"><summary><strong>Visibility</strong></summary><p>You&rsquo;ll gain oversight of the entire contingent workforce via a tailored VMS that provides regular reporting and a clear audit trail.</p></details><details class="mce-accordion"><summary><strong>Compliance and risk mitigation.</strong></summary><p>&nbsp;With external experts managing all legislative and governance requirements, you&rsquo;ll be brought up to speed on compliance best practices and ensure your business is fully compliant.</p></details><details class="mce-accordion"><summary><strong>Supply chain efficiency</strong></summary><p>By running all contractor and supplier engagement through a single trusted provider, you&rsquo;ll significantly reduce administrative burden.</p></details><details class="mce-accordion"><summary><strong>Agility</strong></summary><p>With the experience of a managed service provider to call upon, you can better respond to market shifts and improve efficiencies &mdash; making your organisation more agile in the process.</p></details><details class="mce-accordion"><summary><strong>Cost savings</strong></summary><p>A managed service provider will secure substantial cost savings through exercises such as supply base reduction and staffing benchmarking.</p></details><details class="mce-accordion"><summary><strong>Scalability</strong></summary><p>Working with an extensive supplier base, a managed service provider can find you alternative sources of talent when your supply chain fails to deliver &mdash; enabling you to scale your programme up or down according to your immediate business needs.</p></details><details class="mce-accordion"><summary><strong>Governance</strong></summary><p>Ensuring internal mandating of rates, compliance, and processes.</p></details><p>&nbsp;</p><p>Utilising a managed service provider is a win-win for any business with a sizeable temporary workforce. By building relationships with your business users to understand the ins and outs of your organisation, a dedicated team of industry experts manages your suppliers, sources top talent, and drives best practices on your behalf.</p>

<p>One of the most effective ways a business can successfully manage its contingent workforce is by calling on the expertise of a third-party solutions provider &mdash; particularly one with a dedicated account management team, an optimised vendor management system (VMS), and a focus on control and cost savings.</p>

Managed Service Provider &amp; Contingent Workforce Solutions

<h2>Is an MSP solution right for my business?</h2><p>&nbsp;</p><p>While contingent working has grown at a phenomenal pace in recent years, finding top contingent talent with the most critical skills is an increasingly costly and time-consuming process. With contingent workers (ie. non-employees) making up 40% of the workforce, being able to attract the best talent is crucial.</p><p>If your organisation has a medium-to-large contingent workforce, a managed service programme is the ideal solution. Whether you&rsquo;re looking to improve visibility, compliance,&nbsp;or control, or simply want a fresh recruitment strategy with a new partner, we can build a solution that works for your business.</p><p>Managed service provider solutions don&rsquo;t work for every business, particularly those without sizeable contingent workforces. If you&rsquo;re a scaleup or a startup with a smaller contingent workforce, one of our other recruitment services may prove a better fit.</p>

<h2>Want to Know More?</h2><p><span style="background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Whether you are looking for your next job opportunity, or seeking talent to join your team, we will help find the right fit for you.</span></p>

<h2>Latest Salary Survey</h2><p>SRG are industry leaders and work with 3rd party vendors for market intelligence&nbsp;</p>

<h1>Podcasts &amp; Webinars</h1><p>At SRG, we&rsquo;re taking recruitment podcasts to the next level. Join us for transformational conversations on the scientific industry, workplace, and personal growth.</p>

<h2>Refer A Friend</h2><p>Refer a friend here, please complete the form.</p>

<p class="fs-2"><strong>How does it work?</strong></p><div class="mb-4"><p class="x_xxelementtoproof">Good people tend to know good people. In fact, around a third of our placements are recommended by existing candidates and contractors.</p><p>So, when you recommend a friend to SRG and we place them in a contract or permanent job, you can receive a &pound;250 Love2Shop voucher as a thank you.&nbsp;</p><p>All you need to do is&nbsp;complete the short form&nbsp;at the bottom of this page.<br aria-hidden="true"><br aria-hidden="true">A referred candidate should satisfy the following criteria:</p><ul type="disc"><li class="x_xxmsonormal">Not already be registered with us</li><li class="x_xxmsonormal">Be relevant to the roles and sectors we cover</li></ul><p>Once the referred candidate is placed, they must complete 3 months of work before a reward can be claimed.</p><p>We will send you your voucher once we have successfully placed your friend or colleague into a new job and they have passed the probation period.</p></div><h5><strong>To refer a friend, please complete the form.</strong></h5>

<h3>Need help hiring?</h3><p>SRG can partner with you to take your recruitment strategy to the next level - our recruitment experts are on hand to help you find and retain the right people. Contact us today for an informal discussion at <a href="mailto:solutions@srgtalent.com"> <strong> solutions@srgtalent.com</strong> </a></p>

<h3>Looking for your next opportunity?</h3><p>SRG work with leading global organisations at the helm of innovation in STEM. We have job opportunities across the STEM industries, covering all experience levels from graduate and entry level to executive leadership.</p>

<h2>Salary insights and trends from over 4,000 global professionals across STEM industries</h2><p>Wondering how your company’s salary offers compare to your competitors? Are you offering above, or below industry standards? Is your business as diverse, inclusive and fair as it should be?</p><p>Or are you a STEM professional seeking to uncover salary trends and expectations for your role?</p><p>The exclusive insights from our Global STEM report not only offers the answers you're looking for, but also empowers you to make informed decisions for your career or recruitment strategy.</p><p><strong>Download now to discover:</strong></p><ul><li>Global Life Science, Engineering and Clinical sector salary trends</li><li>How ethnicity affects salary</li><li>Differences in the gender pay gap</li><li>Insights into AI in the workplace</li></ul>

<h1>Global Talent Trends and Insights 2024</h1><p>Finding, attracting and retaining the very best talent isn’t just vital for the future of your business, it is critical to the future of STEM too.</p><p>In the competitive and skills-short STEM recruitment market, understanding salary levels and expectations, along with embracing diversity and inclusion, can give your company an advantage. Anticipating future industry skill needs can also benefit potential hires.</p>

<h3>Need help hiring?</h3><p>SRG can partner with you to take your recruitment strategy to the next level - our recruitment experts are on hand to help you find and retain the right people. Contact us today for an informal discussion at <a href="mailto:solutions@srgtalent.com"> <strong>solutions@srgtalent.com</strong> </a></p><p>&nbsp;</p><h3>Looking for your next opportunity?</h3><p>SRG work with leading global organisations at the helm of innovation in STEM. We have job opportunities across the Life Science, Engineering and Clinical industries, covering all experience levels from graduate and entry level to executive leadership.</p>

<h2>Discover Global STEM Talent Trends &amp; Insights 2024</h2>
<p>Gain valuable insights from over 4,000 professionals on salary benchmarks, workplace trends, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, AI in the workplace, and more. In today’s competitive market, securing and retaining top talent is crucial for success, whether you’re a business or an individual striving for career growth – stay ahead of the curve!</p>

<p>At SRG, we have served STEM industries and companies in the UK, Europe and beyond for over 30 years, using our skills, expertise and understanding of what job seekers and employers are looking for to find the right people, for the right roles, at the right time.</p><p>As industry leaders, we know where to find the very best talent, and recognise the potential for innovation that will help build a brighter future for STEM.</p><p>That’s why our STEM recruitment experts in Ireland, located in Dublin and Cork, are ready to provide tailored STEM Recruitment and Global Managed Services to clients and candidates, drawing on technical and scientific knowledge to begin a journey to success that will continue long into the future.&nbsp;</p>

<p>At SRG, we understand the challenges that come with hiring scientific and engineering talent – whether you’re starting and scaling up a business or an established leader in your field. That's why we offer tailored services to best serve our clients' needs.</p><p>With over 30 years of experience, our team of consultants can provide guidance and support on all aspects of the recruitment process.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Lab Leader Vision 2025</h2>
<p>Discover strategies for success with insights from over 1,000 surveyed lab leaders, plus expert guidance and advice. Explore workforce challenges, automation and efficiency strategies to drive lab innovation and resilience.</p>

<h1>Synergy Scientific Solutions</h1>
<p>Synergy provides flexible Scientific Functional Service Provision solutions, deploying and integrating expert teams to deliver core Lab Activities across the pharmaceutical, biotech, FMCG, chemical, clinical research, biopharma, and sensory industries.&nbsp;</p>

<h2><strong>Empowering Your Business and People with Synergy Scientific Services</strong></h2>

<h2>Subscribe to our newsletter</h2><p>&nbsp;</p>

<h2 class="elementToProof"><strong>SRG &amp; Graduates</strong></h2><div class="elementToProof">If you are a STEM subject&nbsp; graduate looking to register your CV, explore the latest graduate job opportunities, or learn more about how we can support your career ambitions, you've come to the right place.</div><div class="elementToProof"><div class="elementToProof">&nbsp;</div><div class="elementToProof">Our specialists have the expertise and experience to help you navigate your early career journey, providing you with vital insights and guidance, and connecting you with hundreds of STEM organisations who are looking for talented, driven graduates just like you.</div></div>

<h3>Need help hiring?</h3><p>SRG can partner with you to take your recruitment strategy to the next level - our recruitment experts are on hand to help you find and retain the right people. Contact us today for an informal discussion at<a href="mailto:solutions@srgtalent.com"><span><strong> solutions@srgtalent.com</strong></span></a></p>

<h1>Powering the Future of STEM</h1>
<p>Together, we are united by one purpose, one culture, and one driving force: virtuosity. A core part of Virtuosity is customer-centricity.&nbsp;</p>
<p>Our teams come together across Impellam to combine our integrated capabilities, our digital solutions and our culture of virtuosity and that is when the magic happens for our customers.</p>

<h1>About Us</h1>
<div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW172642023 BCX0">
<div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW217087604 BCX0">&nbsp;</div>
<div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW217087604 BCX0">
<p class="Paragraph SCXW217087604 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW217087604 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW217087604 BCX0">Our team is&nbsp;</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW217087604 BCX0">comprised</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW217087604 BCX0"> of seasoned professionals with deep </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW217087604 BCX0">expertise</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW217087604 BCX0"> in th</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW217087604 BCX0">e life sciences sector, bringing</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW217087604 BCX0"> together years of experience in </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW217087604 BCX0">biologics, </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW217087604 BCX0">biotechnology, </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW217087604 BCX0">clinical trials, medical devices, pharmaceutical</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW217087604 BCX0">s, and healthcare.&nbsp;</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW217087604 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}">&nbsp;</span></p>
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<p class="Paragraph SCXW217087604 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW217087604 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW217087604 BCX0">We&rsquo;re</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW217087604 BCX0"> passionate about innovation and excellence and are dedicated to connecting clients with the transformative talent that will drive the future of life sciences.&nbsp;</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW217087604 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}">&nbsp;</span></p>
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<h2>Get in Touch</h2>
<p>Do you have a question? Leave it with SRG.</p>

<h2>Work for us</h2>
<p>Interested in joining our team? Apply today!</p>

<h3>Join the Team at SRG Talent</h3>
<p>If you're looking for an environment to grow and develop in your career while delivering excellence to your clients and candidates, SRG might just be the place for you.</p>
<p>Developing alongside creative and driven colleagues, you'll have the opportunity to work with a range of dynamic clients -&ndash; from top-ten pharma organizations&nbsp;to start-up medtech companies</p>

<h2>The SRG Pulse: Latest News, Events &amp; Insights</h2><p>Our Life Sciences expertise and partnership-led approach allows us to deliver highly successful results for our clients so they can attract and retain unique talent for their business. Explore our latest collection of case studies, news, events, and insights from SRG.&nbsp;</p>

<h1>Business Solutions</h1><h3><strong>Partner with the leading STEM recruitment agency</strong></h3><p>Your standards and expectations are high. So are ours. We know what matters, so that’s what we focus on. You can rely on us to build relationships, tailor solutions, and champion talent, whilst adapting, flexing, and collaborating with you to create the talent solutions required.</p>

<h2>Get in Touch!</h2><p>There are many way to get in touch.</p>

<h3>Send Us Your CV/Resume</h3><div class="mb-4 contentWrapper"><p>Unlock the untapped potential in people, jobs, and data to enhance the now and shape the future.</p></div>

<h2>Get in Touch</h2><div class="mb-4"><p>Do you have a question? Leave it with SRG.</p></div>

<h2>Newsletter Sign up</h2><div class="mb-4"><p>Stay up to date with SRG</p><div class="mt-4"><div id="sourceflow-form-e54992b4-68bf-4d40-9716-616c209fc500" data-sourceflow-form="form" data-sourceflow-form-id="e54992b4-68bf-4d40-9716-616c209fc500"><div id="edolvuk" class="formio-component formio-component-form  formio-component-label-hidden"><div class="formio-form"><div id="edfkgjf" class="form-group has-feedback formio-component formio-component-radio formio-component-typeOfNewsletters"><div class="form-radio radio" role="radiogroup" aria-labelledby="l-edfkgjf-typeOfNewsletters" aria-required="false"><div class="radio  form-check">&nbsp;</div></div></div></div></div></div></div></div>

<h2>Get in Touch!</h2><div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW216223936 BCX0"><p class="Paragraph SCXW216223936 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW216223936 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW216223936 BCX0">Do you have any questions?&nbsp;</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW216223936 BCX0">Don't</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW216223936 BCX0"> hesitate to contact our SRGContractor</span>&nbsp;<span class="NormalTextRun SCXW216223936 BCX0">Team&nbsp;</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW216223936 BCX0">for quick&nbsp;</span><span class="NormalTextRun CommentStart SCXW216223936 BCX0">answers</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW216223936 BCX0">!&nbsp;</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW216223936 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;</span></p></div><div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW216223936 BCX0"><p class="Paragraph SCXW216223936 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW216223936 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW216223936 BCX0">Whether you are a beginner or an experienced contractor, we are here to provide you with the latest and reliable information to&nbsp;</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW216223936 BCX0">help</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW216223936 BCX0">&nbsp;you</span>&nbsp;<span class="NormalTextRun SCXW216223936 BCX0">through</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW216223936 BCX0">&nbsp;your journey with</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW216223936 BCX0"> SRG</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW216223936 BCX0">.</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW216223936 BCX0">&nbsp;</span></span></p><p class="Paragraph SCXW216223936 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW216223936 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW216223936 BCX0">No matter how big or small your question is, we will do our best to provide you with helpful and informed responses.</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW216223936 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;</span></p><p class="Paragraph SCXW216223936 BCX0">&nbsp;</p><div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW135433514 BCX0"><h5 class="Paragraph SCXW135433514 BCX0"><strong><span class="TextRun SCXW135433514 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW135433514 BCX0">Contractor&nbsp;</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW135433514 BCX0">B</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW135433514 BCX0">enefits</span></span></strong></h5><h5 class="Paragraph SCXW135433514 BCX0"><sup><span class="TextRun SCXW135433514 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW135433514 BCX0">Benefits offered by Lorien&nbsp;</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW135433514 BCX0">m</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW135433514 BCX0">ay</span>&nbsp;<span class="NormalTextRun SCXW135433514 BCX0">include</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW135433514 BCX0">:&nbsp;</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW135433514 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}">&nbsp;</span></sup></h5></div><div class="ListContainerWrapper SCXW135433514 BCX0"><ul class="BulletListStyle1 SCXW135433514 BCX0" role="list"><li class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW135433514 BCX0" role="listitem" data-leveltext="" data-font="Symbol" data-listid="1" data-list-defn-props="{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}" aria-setsize="-1" data-aria-posinset="1" data-aria-level="1"><p class="Paragraph SCXW135433514 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW135433514 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW135433514 BCX0">Choice among three major medical plans and one minimum essential coverage medical plan&nbsp;</span></span></p></li><li class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW135433514 BCX0" role="listitem" data-leveltext="" data-font="Symbol" data-listid="1" data-list-defn-props="{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}" aria-setsize="-1" data-aria-posinset="1" data-aria-level="1"><p class="Paragraph SCXW135433514 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW135433514 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW135433514 BCX0">Integrated prescription benefits with your medical plan&nbsp;</span></span></p></li><li class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW135433514 BCX0" role="listitem" data-leveltext="" data-font="Symbol" data-listid="1" data-list-defn-props="{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}" aria-setsize="-1" data-aria-posinset="2" data-aria-level="1"><p class="Paragraph SCXW135433514 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW135433514 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW135433514 BCX0">Two standalone PPO dental plans (</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW135433514 BCX0">o</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW135433514 BCX0">ne plan includes orthodontic benefits for adults)&nbsp;</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW135433514 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}">&nbsp;</span></p></li><li class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW135433514 BCX0" role="listitem" data-leveltext="" data-font="Symbol" data-listid="1" data-list-defn-props="{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}" aria-setsize="-1" data-aria-posinset="4" data-aria-level="1"><p class="Paragraph SCXW135433514 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW135433514 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW135433514 BCX0">Standalone vision plan with exams, lenses, contact lenses, and frame benefits</span></span></p></li><li class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW135433514 BCX0" role="listitem" data-leveltext="" data-font="Symbol" data-listid="1" data-list-defn-props="{&quot;335552541&quot;:1,&quot;335559685&quot;:720,&quot;335559991&quot;:360,&quot;469769226&quot;:&quot;Symbol&quot;,&quot;469769242&quot;:[8226],&quot;469777803&quot;:&quot;left&quot;,&quot;469777804&quot;:&quot;&quot;,&quot;469777815&quot;:&quot;hybridMultilevel&quot;}" aria-setsize="-1" data-aria-posinset="4" data-aria-level="1"><p class="Paragraph SCXW135433514 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW135433514 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW135433514 BCX0">Savings&nbsp;</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW135433514 BCX0">p</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW135433514 BCX0">rograms: Our 401(k) allows participants to contribute to both pre-tax and after-tax payroll deductions. In addition, we offer a flexible, tax-advantaged Section 529 College Savings Program.</span></span></p></li></ul><ul><li class="Paragraph SCXW135433514 BCX0"><span class="TextRun SCXW135433514 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="none"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW135433514 BCX0">Direct deposit (weekly payroll)&nbsp;</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW135433514 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}">&nbsp;</span>&nbsp;</li></ul><p>&nbsp;</p></div></div><h5>Our hotlines are:</h5>

<h4><strong><span class="EOP SCXW135433514 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}"><span class="TextRun SCXW64043463 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW64043463 BCX0">Professional Referrals</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW64043463 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:240,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;</span></span></strong></h4><div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW175820273 BCX0"><p class="Paragraph SCXW175820273 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US"><span class="TextRun SCXW175820273 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW175820273 BCX0">At SRG, we believe in the power of professional connections to fuel our industry's future. </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW175820273 BCX0">That's</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW175820273 BCX0">&nbsp;why we highly value candidate referrals from our trusted network of contractors. These referrals are more than just names&mdash;</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW175820273 BCX0">they're</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW175820273 BCX0">&nbsp;seasoned professionals who come highly recommended for their skills, reliability, and dedication to their career.&nbsp;</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW175820273 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;</span></p></div><div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW175820273 BCX0"><p class="Paragraph SCXW175820273 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US"><span class="TextRun SCXW175820273 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW175820273 BCX0">When a contractor refers a candidate to us,&nbsp;</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW175820273 BCX0">it's</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW175820273 BCX0">&nbsp;a testament to the candidate's quality and fit for upcoming projects. We carefully consider each referral, aiming to seamlessly integrate these skilled individuals into our staffing solutions, thereby ensuring our clients receive top-tier talent.&nbsp;</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW175820273 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;134233117&quot;:false,&quot;134233118&quot;:false,&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335551550&quot;:0,&quot;335551620&quot;:0,&quot;335559738&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:0,&quot;335559740&quot;:279}">&nbsp;</span></p></div><div class="OutlineElement Ltr SCXW175820273 BCX0"><p class="Paragraph SCXW175820273 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US"><span class="TextRun SCXW175820273 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW175820273 BCX0">This collaborative approach not only enriches our talent pool but also strengthens the bonds within our professional community, leading to more successful projects and satisfied clients.</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW175820273 BCX0">&nbsp;Please speak to your recruiting contact to discuss our referral bonus</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW175820273 BCX0"> program in greater detail.</span></span></p></div><p>For all other questions, please complete our form:</p>

<h1>Contractors</h1><p>As an established staffing partner to our amazing client companies, your success is our top priority. We&rsquo;re here to support our Contractors every step of the way in your career with SRG.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p>Whether you are a new starter or a career contractor, SRG is your trusted advisor. We provide you with personal, responsive attention and will assign an employee care representative to answer any questions you might have.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>How to Unlock Talent Trends & Insights to Move Your Business Ahead</h2><p>Join us for a 40-minute streaming video event discussing the latest Global Talent Trends & Insights report, sponsored by SRG, the industry’s leader in Life Sciences, Engineering and Clinical Recruitment, and New Scientist, a global weekly science and technology publication. In this informative session, we’ll discuss the findings from the 4,000 professionals surveyed across the UK, US, and Europe to uncover what professionals value most in their careers.  </p><p>We will dive into salary data and skills in STEM and learn how AI is shaping the job market. We'll discuss key DEI feedback and present the latest cultural statistics, providing you with actionable information to inform your talent strategy and stay ahead of the competition for talent. </p><p>Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insights from industry experts, including Justin Mullins, Consultant Editor at New Scientist Jobs, along with Philippa Clark and Patrick Stedman, industry leaders from SRG.</p>

<h2>Powering the Future of STEM</h2><p>Unlocking exceptional job opportunities for Life Sciences talent in niche markets, we transform our partners' businesses.</p>

<h2>Awards &amp; Industry Recognition</h2>

<h2>Featured Jobs</h2><p><span style="color: rgb(43, 42, 41); background-color: rgb(255, 255, 255);">Find the best Life Sciences career opportunities:&nbsp;</span></p>

<p>SRG is the leader in the Life Sciences human capital industry. We apply three decades of specialized knowledge to a full spectrum of clinical, quality, regulatory, and compliance talent solutions. We recruit across the Life Sciences product life cycle&mdash;covering scientific research and development (R&amp;D), clinical trials, manufacturing, and engineering disciplines.&nbsp;</p><p>Together, we create world-class communities that empower individuals and businesses to shape tomorrow&rsquo;s world.&nbsp;</p>

Industry Leaders in <br> Life Sciences Recruitment

<h1>Insights</h1><p>Our Life Sciences expertise and partnership-led approach allows us to provide unique insight into industry trends. Explore our latest collection of case studies, news, events, and insights from SRG</p>

<p>If you'd like information on how SRG can impact your business, fill out the form and we will contact you within 24 business hours.</p>

<h2>More Information</h2><p>Looking for more? </p>

<h1>Featured Employers</h1><p>SRG will feature your company as one to work for! Reach out to us today to learn more.&nbsp;</p>

<h1>Industry-Leading Opportunities&nbsp;</h1><p>The Life Sciences industry is multi-faceted, and our team deeply understands each sector’s nuanced demands. This expertise enables us to identify opportunities that pinpoint precise skill sets and cultural alignment, ensuring a perfect match for our candidates and client industry-specific needs.&nbsp;</p>

<h2>Industry-Leading Positions in Clinical &amp; Quality, Regulatory &amp; Compliance Fields&nbsp;</h2><p>Find our latest life sciences career opportunities.&nbsp;</p>

<h1>Shaping the Future of Life Sciences</h1><p>As technological advancements accelerate, new fields emerge, and competition intensifies, the demand for professionals in the Life Sciences industry continues to outpace the available talent pool. In fact, life sciences occupations have the second lowest unemployment rate in the nation at 0.6%.</p><p>Our dedicated team of recruitment specialists will find you the best fit from our outstanding client list and provide amazing career opportunities so you can grow and flourish in your career.</p>

<h1>Meet the Team</h1><p>We are a global STEM network offering a full spectrum of roles and talent solutions across science, including clinical trials, technology, engineering, and maths disciplines. </p><p>We're here to enable innovation, but our success comes from people and connections.</p>

<h2>Get in Touch</h2><p>Do you have a question? </p>

<h2>Work for us</h2><p>Interested in joining our team? Apply today!</p>

<h3>Need help hiring?</h3><p>SRG can partner with you to take your recruitment strategy to the next level - our recruitment experts are on hand to help you find and retain the right people. Contact us today for an informal discussion at <a href="mailto:solutions@srgtalent.com"> <strong> connect@srgtalent.com</strong> </a></p>

<h3>Looking for your next opportunity?</h3><p>SRG works with leading global organizations at the forefront of innovation in Life Sciences. We have job opportunities covering all experience levels.</p>

<h2>Salary insights and trends from over 4,000 global professionals across a wide variety of industries</h2><p>Wondering how your company&rsquo;s salary offers compare to your competitors? Are you offering above or below industry standards? Is your business as diverse, inclusive, and fair as it should be?</p><p>Or are you a Life Sciences professional hoping to find out whether your salary matches up to your peers, or the average salary expectations for your role?</p><p>The exclusive insights gained from our Global Talent Trends &amp; Insights Survey could provide the answers you&rsquo;re looking for and help you make more informed decisions for the next stages of your career or recruitment strategy.</p><p><strong>Download now to discover:</strong></p><ul><li>Global Life Science salary and workplace trends</li><li>How ethnicity affects salary</li><li>Global differences in the gender pay gap</li><li>Insights into AI in the workplace</li></ul><p>&nbsp;</p><p><a class="primaryBtn" href="/site-assets/pdf/SRG_Global_Talent_Trends_Insights2024_US_Version.pdf" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Download Report</a></p>

<h1>Global Talent Trends &amp; Insights 2024</h1><p><span class="TextRun SCXW110141590 BCX0" lang="EN-US" xml:lang="EN-US" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW110141590 BCX0">This year’s Global Talent Trends &amp; Insights report is set against dramatic change. During the COVID-19 pandemic, the drive to develop vaccines and treatments led to considerable investments in the life sciences sector and increased demand for skilled workers. This inevitably led to a reset&nbsp;</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW110141590 BCX0">when</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW110141590 BCX0"> the virus</span> <span class="NormalTextRun SCXW110141590 BCX0">was eventually curbed</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW110141590 BCX0">. This year’s </span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW110141590 BCX0">report</span><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW110141590 BCX0"> suggests a potential return to pre-pandemic activity levels.</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW110141590 BCX0" data-ccp-props="{&quot;201341983&quot;:0,&quot;335559739&quot;:160,&quot;335559740&quot;:259}">&nbsp;</span></p>

<h2>Discover Global Life Sciences Talent Trends &amp; Insights in 2024</h2><p>Gain valuable insights from over 4,000 professionals on salary benchmarks, workplace trends, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, AI in the workplace, and more. In today&rsquo;s competitive market, securing and retaining top talent is crucial for success, whether you&rsquo;re a business or an individual striving for career growth &ndash; stay ahead of the curve!</p>

<h2>The SRG Pulse: Latest News, Events, and Insights</h2><p>Our tech expertise and partner-led approach allows us to deliver highly successful results for our clients so they can attract and retain unique talent for their business. Explore our latest collection of case studies, news, events, and insights</p>

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