I am so grateful for the opportunity to do my internship at Roche, and for the work I got to complete for this company with amazing people. I am sure I will be able to use all the knowledge and experience I gained in my future career.
Hello, my name is Lina! I am from Alsace. I graduated with a Bachelor‘s degree in Chemistry from the University of Haute Alsace in France. I have always had an interest in science from a young age, and my interest in the pharmaceutical field and in healthcare has increased over the years. After my Bachelor’s degree, I wanted to gain some initial experience in the pharmaceutical field, as I would like to work in this area after I finish my studies. I joined the Roche Internship in Synthetic Molecules Programme (RiSM) two months ago, working in the Process Chemistry Department. I have been working on the synthesis of impurities of a new active pharmaceutical ingredient.
My typical day at work is varied, interesting and mostly lab-based. The aim is to provide molecules in a sufficient amount and purity for analytical work. I have searched the scientific literature for a potential synthetic route. Based on the results, the experimental plan was adjusted. I also learnt how to use some lab equipment (gas chromatography, nuclear magnetic resonance) and how to write lab procedures.
Compared to my experience at university, science at Roche is very results-oriented and targeted. At university I was more used to learning scientific theory. I found the work at Roche very stimulating because you always have to learn something new, to progress and to find solutions. Each day is different and I knew that I was working on a high-value target.
The RiSM Programme helped me to develop because it allowed me to apply the knowledge I acquired during my Bachelor’s course in practice. This internship was an opportunity for me to gain more practical experience in the laboratory, to learn new techniques, to solve scientific problems and to have responsibilities I never had before. I will be able to use all the knowledge and experience I gained in my future career. I am so grateful for the opportunity to do my internship at Roche, and for the work I got to complete for this company with amazing people. This internship was more than I could ever have hoped for.
To anyone interested in the RiSM programme, I would recommend you apply! It’s a great opportunity for all students who are interested in gaining practical experience and learning more about the pharmaceutical industry. You can learn from passionate people in a company which provides the best possible patient care.