Rahaf's internship: Sampath Lab, University of Warwick

Rahaf is currently in her third year on our MSci Integrated Natural Sciences degree. During the summer after her second year she took part in an internship in the Sampath Lab at the University of Warwick, which was funded by the Genetics Society. Here, she tells us more.

Tell us about your placement and what attracted you to it

My placement was at the Sampath Lab at the University of Warwick, funded by the Genetics Society. I was particularly drawn to this lab because of the chance to take part in important, meaningful research and the opportunity to work with zebrafish.

What was the first thing you did as part of the placement?

The first thing I did was learn how to handle the fish and make a plan for my time there.

What have you learned as part of the placement?

I've learned a lot about developmental biology and how to carry out and organise experiments in the lab. But I've also learned the value of teamwork and getting to know the others in the lab.

Have you enjoyed any experiences outside of the labs?

I really enjoyed my time at the Genetics Society workshop in Cambridge and the chance to meet other summer studentship recipients across the country and talk to them about their placement experiences.

What have you enjoyed most?

Most of all I enjoyed experiencing life as a lab member and having the chance to get to know the brilliant members of the lab.

How do you think the experience helped you?

It has made me less nervous about my abilities in the lab and my presenting skills as I got a lot of practice, and my confidence grew greatly after receiving third place for my presentation and research at the Cambridge workshop for all the summer students.

Has this changed the way you think about future options?

It has solidified my desire to pursue a PhD and made me realise that going forwards there are so many options of what I can do.

Do you have any advice for anyone thinking about summer placements?

Try to reach out to labs which carry out research you find interesting and important. Don't forget about why you want to be doing this work.

What are your plans after you graduate?

I hope to pursue a PhD in a field of biological research but I'm not quite sure which field quite yet.

Internship support at Warwick

There are various support schemes available for those looking for biomedical internships, both internally and externally: