As you study Microbiology, you will have the opportunity to work within industry. This is an excellent opportunity: you will have both the chance to see how your knowledge is applied and to make a name with potential employers.

How long is a placement?

Everyone comes to university with different plans and responsibilities. With this in mind, you have several different ways to take a placement. Most popular is our year-long placement n industry, which will take place between your second and final year. Many students have chosen to work abroad during this year, which the University will help you to organise. If a year-long placement is not practical or conflicts with other plans, you also have the opportunity to apply for a six to ten week paid studentship from a microbiology organisation such as the Microbiology Society during the summer after your second year as part of the University of Reading's UROP scheme (Undergraduate Research Opportunities Programme).

Read more about our UROP scheme

Where can you work?

The School of Biological Sciences has an excellent relationship with companies and other bodies who need professional microbiologists.  Recently, students have taken placements with organisations such as Public Health England, GlaxoSmithKline, AstraZeneca and Covance. It is also possible to work in an academic laboratory.

Support while you work

A key advantage of taking a placement is that you will have the University's support during the application process and throughout the duration of your time working in industry. You will go into the placement fully briefed about the employer's requirements and expectations. During your placement you will be able to discuss your progress with your tutor. You will also be supported by our dedicated Placement Officer, an academic who will monitor your progress in your placement. The Placement Officer will advise you and can visit you to see how you are settling in.