BioGrad Education has been offering immersive laboratory and clinical training courses to students of all ages since 2014. Designed with one purpose, to provide practical skills to science graduates so they can enter the job market as research scientists. These courses have been booked by students from over 526 institutions in 21 countries to provide graduate scientists with the practical skills they need to work in a laboratory.
When the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority announced the Department of Education’s Skills Bootcamp scheme, we immediately knew that we wanted to be a part of it. BioGrad Education was already providing valuable training and upskilling opportunities to hundreds of students every year, making us a perfect fit for this initiative.
Meet Ryan, a recent graduate whose story perfectly captures the transformative power of the BioGrad Laboratory Skills & Biotechnology Skills Bootcamp:
Ryan’s Story: I, myself, was in that exact position just three months ago. Fresh out of university, I felt my scientific knowledge was strong, but my practical skills were practically non-existent. This lack of “employability,” as I called it, left me feeling uncertain about my future. My dad suggested I consider applying to BioGrad’s Science Skills Bootcamps. So I got in touch and booked a place on the course. This intensive program proved to be a game-changer. It wasn’t just about learning new techniques; it was about gaining the confidence and competence to navigate a real lab environment. The hands-on training filled the gaps in my skillset, and the diverse group of instructors and fellow trainees broadened my perspective on the scientific landscape.
One of the program’s biggest highlights was the CV workshop led by Dr. Natalie Kenny. Her insights transformed my CV from a generic hospitality one to a tailored masterpiece designed for scientific job applications. This workshop, along with the entire program, empowered me to take control of my career path
During the course, I made friends with other students who had diverse academic backgrounds and education experiences in science. Some of them had completed their degrees like me, while others were pursuing their PhDs or working as laboratory technicians. I enjoyed building a network of contacts within the LCR region who were at the start of their science careers like me.
Today, I’m no longer just a graduate with potential; I’m a proudly employed scientist at BioGrad BioBank. The Bootcamp equipped me with the skills and confidence to step into a lab environment and feel at ease.
If you find yourself struggling with challenges similar to mine, know that you have the power to overcome them. Consider completing a Skills Bootcamp course, available in various sectors, including science. This is not just about gaining new skills but unlocking your full potential and pursuing your dream career in science.
