Voluntary lab work

[Haj]

Hi, I'm studying via correspondance at the mo for a life sciences degree. I can't work as I'm single and have young'uns but would like to volunteer in a lab or similar to gain experience in this area for when I graduate, to make me more employable. I became a volunteer at the general hospital but they put me in an office 'near' the lab! They said I couldn't go in the lab due to insurance purposes, so I quit, my time is too precious to waste it!

Has anyone got any other ideas of ways I can gain some unpaid experience whilst studying?

[ann_h]

You could try local secondary schools - you may not be involved to the degree you wish in labwork like slide prep, but you will at least show you are capable of being safe, reliable and so on in that employment setting. Just a thought.

[Elfin]

I'd approach some commercial companies and try to get a formal work experience placement. Or maybe a university lab, if there is one nearby.  Have a look in the back section of New Scientist to see which industries might be suitable.  Worth a try anyway.  Good luck!

[Haj]

I've not heard of companies giving out formal work experience placements. Do they do that? If so, what sort of companies will have labs?

Thanks for this idea, I'm gonna look into it. I also like the idea of the 2ndary schools as i live next to one! I will enquire about that but would prefer a company to be honest, it might lead to a job when i graduate!!!

Thanks again!