GSK top graduate wish list

A recent survey by a graduate recruitment website of over 2,000 students and graduates hoping to work in science after university has revealed which companies are top of the job application list.

The “Employer of Choice” survey, conducted by targetjobs.co.uk to gain an insight into perceptions of businesses by UK students and graduates, show that career prospects and development are clearly vital concerns for today’s would-be scientists.

Paul Sissons, chief executive of targetjobs.co.uk, said: “Long-term career development is clearly far more important to today’s students than short-term financial gain. It’s no coincidence that the most popular science companies offer first-class training – students and graduates interested in science want to make a lasting impression in their chosen field, and recognise that the mentoring they receive after leaving university will make a huge difference.”

The top two companies on the overall list - including GSK in the top spot, despite its recent announcement that it is to cut 7,600 jobs worldwide - were also rated the best providers of work experience and internships; 33% of respondents rated GSK as ‘excellent’ in this area, while over 24% gave AstraZeneca a similar rating.

However, the results show that the scientists of the future are doing little to secure their first job before leaving university. Less than 14% of respondents claimed to have started applying for jobs, and only 3% stated they had already secured a job.

Paul Sissons continued: “It seems that would-be scientists are quite happy to put the job hunt on hold until they leave finishing university. However our advice would be to do as much fact-finding and research as possible while still at university – that way, searching for jobs becomes quicker and easier later on.”