Jake joined us for the second summer in a row, find out what brought him back!
"After graduating from Durham University, I was offered the opportunity to return to Labman over the summer. Within half an hour of entering the building, I was entrusted with an exciting set of tasks, involving research and development for a new Labman product. This project perfectly matched by scientific and mathematical background, allowing me to apply my skills in a meaningful and engaging way."
"My research mainly focused on developing and testing algorithms to refine chemical datasets. This involved an extensive review of scientific literature, whiteboard sessions to understand mathematical concepts, and hands-on experimentation. The environment here allowed me the freedom to make mistakes and learn. Overall, the project I’ve worked on has been a really cool bridge between academia and Industry."
"The independence and responsibility I was given from the start was really refreshing, providing a genuine work experience rather than the stereotypical intern experience, feeling in the way or constantly seeking tasks. As a returner, I also found myself contributing more effectively, a consequence of increased confidence and Labman’s nurturing culture. "
"I particularly enjoyed participating in meetings held with large chemical companies and research scientists. Although the participants were PhDs with deep expertise in the meeting topics, I felt heard and was able to ask insightful questions."
"Beyond my R&D role, I developed a set of new data analytics dashboards. These tools now provide valuable insights to the marketing and sales departments, ultimately improving forecasting and decision making."
"I have genuinely enjoyed my time as an intern and would like to thank Ian and Rob personally for taking a chance on me last summer. I’ve learnt so much and will remember the culture and people that make this place so special wherever I end up in my career. Thank you! "
Aspiring aeronautical engineer Euan joined Labman for the summer to get a taste of laboratory robotics.
"Working at Labman this summer has been a fascinating experience, and one very different to any engineering I have done before. As an aeronautical engineering student, with most of my interests centred around that field, lab robots were somewhat out of my comfort zone – and yet I’ve managed to do more than I expected from a brief internship!"
"Labman presents a unique work culture – the independence you’re immediately given even in a very junior role; the “everyone does everything” approach to design/build/testing of products; even the slightly chaotic “Labfest” summer party that I was lucky enough to be around for in my second week."
"As such I’ve spent my time here doing all sorts; from lab work that tested what’s left of my A-level chemistry skill, to supervising 3-axis CNC machines making production components - all alongside the CAD and design tasks that I had initially expected as an engineer."
"As a workplace Labman has been incredibly friendly, full of approachable people who seem to genuinely enjoy their work. I can see the products designed making real-world differences in their respective fields, and the sheer breadth of project means you never quite know what you’ll be working on next."
"As someone who fears the idea of spending their career stuck in an uninspiring desk job, Labman presents a vision of an alternative form of employment that I really like – complete with the in-office climbing wall and a free-roaming labrador!"
Reuben was a valued member of the team during his internship at Labman, he sums up his experience for us.
"Coming to the end of my summer internship at Labman, I’m amazed how quickly the last 10 weeks have flown by! It’s a testament to the variety of the work, and the positive, welcoming environment the company creates. Fun is one of the core values at Labman, and that’s not just a hollow statement, it’s evident throughout the factory and the culture - from the fireman’s poles dotted around the building for speedy traversal between floors, to the in-house summer party ‘LabFest’. "
"There are dozens of activities and social clubs to get involved with at lunchtimes and after work too – there’s a competitive (and friendly) pool and snooker scene; darts; VR racing; plus, a squash court, a gym, and a climbing wall right in the factory. I also enjoyed getting involved with the music discussion group where each week a different album is nominated for people to listen to, rate and discuss."
"It may be hard to believe given all the above, but plenty of work happens at Labman too! There is a multitude of projects at various stages going on all the time. So plenty to get involved with as an intern. As a mature student, I had a lot of work experience from various industries before coming back to education to study Robotics Engineering. The biggest thing that struck me when I started at Labman was the level of trust I felt in my work. "
"Where other companies can often stray into micromanagement, my mentors and project leaders at Labman have been happy to let me get on with tasks and choose my own approach (whilst always being available to help if needed). This encouraged me to use my initiative, learn a lot, and seek out more tasks and projects to contribute to."
"Everyone I’ve met here has been friendly and welcoming, and always happy to share their knowledge. I’ve not only developed my technical skills, but also my understanding of the business side of engineering. "
"In my short time here I’ve participated in design meetings, met with suppliers, and contributed to project costing analyses; I’ve conducted testing of robots, sensors and prototype systems; and even designed and made several parts and assemblies of my own. Overall it’s been a great experience, I hope to come back again."