Mark Smith - Graduate Case Study

Mark Smith is a Biology graduate who works for Eurofins Forensics Services as a Forensic DNA Analyst.

What do you do in your work?

My role involves carrying out DNA profiling of samples taken under the PACE Act, covering all stages from sample delivery to genotyping of analytical results. We then report the profiling results for submission to the National DNA Database®.

What three things do you like about your job:

• The part we play in the criminal justice system. I wanted a career where I would have the opportunity to make a difference and what we do matters every day. That’s a great motivator and helps to keep me motivated and continue learning.
• The team effort at Eurofins - it’s great to work with like-minded people who are also passionate about what they do.
• The career development opportunities at Eurofins. Further development is actively encouraged, and new ideas are always welcome. I have the freedom to set up my own project or research study and involve others in a collaborative effort to try and solve a problem or improve a current process.

What did the application and selection process involve?

The first step was sending my CV and cover letter in response to the role advertised on their website. I was then asked to attend an assessment centre, followed by an interview. In preparation, I revised and looked over lecture notes from the Forensic and Anthropological Genetics module to refresh my memory of the PCR process. That module and the support given throughout my third year from the module leader, was invaluable in preparing me for the interview and the role. I also used the LJMU Careers Guide a lot! It contained example interview questions that I could use when preparing. I also studied the Eurofins website where they gave great advice regarding the interview, even mentioning the STAR style for answering interview questions which I had only heard about previously from the Careers, Employability & Start-Up Team. This was all excellent advice that I could put to use on the day!

What advice would you give to other students to improve their employability?

Get experience! I selected modules throughout my degree that gave me the maximum amount of time working within a laboratory. Try and work out what you want to do after you graduate, and then try and get as much experience as possible. Be proactive. Constantly check careers pages of websites for who you would like to work for and make contact with them. I emailed Eurofins Forensic Services in my second year to enquire about volunteering but due to the sensitive nature of the work, this wasn’t possible. I then mentioned this at interview to show my commitment to that role and the company.

Organisations like ours sometimes offer work-based learning and professional development years for students so if you can get something like this, then do not hesitate. I currently work with students who are on a yearlong placement from LJMU and they are a pleasure to work with. They are actively engaged in development projects and will genuinely be missed when they go back to university.

Work experience is valuable even if it is not relevant. My previous job roles have been in a museum, book shop and sales. A world away from a forensic scientist! However, skills such as communication, working in a team, organisation, planning and the ability to multitask were all developed during these roles that I could then talk about and give examples of during my interview. So don’t worry if you can’t get relevant experience. It also should go without saying that you should aim for your highest grade possible and stay focused from first year. The things you study, especially statistics, research methods and using SPSS for data manipulation, were essential and an excellent foundation to then build upon.

Support from the Student Futures team 

If you want to talk about potential careers options with your degree, need help finding opportunities or want support with your CV, application forms or preparing for an interview, you can get advice and guidance by booking a 30-minute 1-2-1 careers meeting with a Careers and Employability Adviser from the LJMU Student Futures Team.  You can also come along to a Careers drop-in or CV Café which take place weekly at the Careers Zones for quick careers queries.

If you are thinking about starting a business, freelancing, pursuing a side-hustle or have an idea that you want to explore further, email the Start-up Hub and a member of the team will be back in touch.  For more information about the Bathgate Boost Award, visit the Start-up Hub website.

For help finding part-time, temporary or casual you can fit around your studies, email the Unitemps team or visit their website.