Dr. Karolin Sommer has always found analytical chemistry exciting. After completing her doctorate in analytical chemistry, she started working as a QC expert in elemental analysis at her current employer. Today, she works as a senior scientist in an elemental analysis laboratory in the research and development department. One of her main tasks is coordinating various analytical projects, including those outside the laboratory.
It was clear to me early on that I wanted to study science after school. Ultimately, I decided on food chemistry , but I did all my final theses and my doctorate in analytical chemistry. Analytics was also the reason I chose food chemistry , as it makes up a significant part of the course. I have always found analytical chemistry fascinating; it can be compared in some ways to solving brain teasers or puzzles. If you find the right analysis technique, you can answer (almost) all questions - that still inspires my ambition to learn new things today.
During my PhD, I worked on the analysis of Gd-based contrast agents and therefore had a strong focus on elemental analysis. When a position for a QC expert in elemental analysis was advertised at my current employer, I didn't hesitate to apply. Starting my professional life in an expert position was, in my opinion, really ideal. In a large company, especially in quality control, many things are different to what you are used to at university; it takes a while to understand all the processes. However, since my new tasks (method development, coordination of measurements, implementation of new equipment) were not that far removed from those during my PhD, the transition from university to industry was much easier than I thought.
I am a senior scientist in an elemental analysis laboratory, but no longer in quality control, but in research and development. One of my main tasks is coordinating various analytical projects, including those outside of my laboratory. This includes selecting the most suitable method, coordinating samples, and evaluating and interpreting the results. I also develop methods myself and ensure that our laboratory remains scientifically up to date. Literature research and practical work in the laboratory are also part of my responsibilities. Even though the amount of laboratory work I do has decreased over time, I particularly enjoy the variety that my current position offers me.
I think that to work as a research assistant, you should above all have a certain scientific curiosity. Even though I do not have direct personnel responsibility, organizational talent and communication skills are very important in order to work effectively with other colleagues on projects and, if necessary, also to provide technical leadership.
There is almost no such thing as a typical working day - actually, every day is somehow different. In the morning, I usually discuss with part of our laboratory team what measurements are pending and whether or how my support is needed. I am in the laboratory myself at times, although this currently only accounts for around 10-20% of my daily routine. Otherwise, I am often involved in project teams, supervising our interns or supporting our laboratory management with organizational issues in the laboratory. I work in various teams, sometimes across departments. It is very important to communicate well to ensure that all information reaches all parties involved.
The day-to-day working life in a job is very different from that of a degree/doctorate and is probably more structured. However, the doctorate was definitely very good preparation for my current work. Aside from the technical things I learned, frustration tolerance is certainly one of the core skills you acquire in a doctorate. The need to be very self-organized and to be responsible for your own projects is also excellent preparation. In general, I would say that the technical skills you acquire are often less important than you think. It is more important to develop personally during your studies and doctorate.
I like the variety. Hardly any analytical project is the same and there are always new challenges to solve. Added to this is the variety in everyday life due to the different tasks that I have. Sometimes, of course, it happens that the questions we receive are not so easy to solve. But together as a team, we always find an answer and somehow we achieve success, which of course makes teamwork all the more enjoyable.
The opportunities for advancement as an expert are often limited, although in recent years our company has created many new opportunities for a specialist career. Of course, you also have the opportunity to develop further into a management role or, for example, project management. This always depends on your own preferences and does not have to be a one-way street.
I would advise you to always think outside the box. Whether it's an interest in physics, computer science, economics or something else entirely - it's more of an advantage than a disadvantage to have a broad range of skills and it sets you apart from other applicants.
If you are particularly interested in a certain area of the industry, do an internship there during your studies. Internships in particular offer the opportunity to get a taste of a company.
You can also use your network of fellow students, former members of the working group or contacts you make at conferences. This may open up completely new opportunities that you have not even considered before.
Note: For reasons of readability, gender-specific language forms are not used simultaneously. All personal names apply to all genders.
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last modified: 13.12.2024 10:59 H from Translator
