Organisation: Bayer
Number of years in current position: 1st year in position
Qualifications:
- Currently studying: Mathematics MMath (Hons) at the University of Bath
- A Levels: Maths: A*; Further Maths: A*; Chemistry: A*; Economics: A
- 11 GCSEs
Briefly describe the organisation you work for.
Bayer is a pharmaceutical and life sciences company. I work in the pharmaceutical division, which is primarily focused on the research, development, and production of innovative pharmaceutical products to address a wide range of medical conditions.
Explain what you do on an average day at work.
In my role in the statistics team, my day-to-day tasks revolve around analysing data related to various treatments using statistical programming languages like SAS and R. This involves delving into the details of how different treatments perform based on the data we collect. Once I’ve analysed the data, I then write reports summarising findings. These reports are crucial for the approval of new treatments, as they provide evidence of their effectiveness and safety to regulatory bodies. Additionally, I often need to communicate my findings to others, which requires me to explain complex information in a clear and understandable way. It’s an incredibly rewarding field to work in as the work directly contributes to the improvement of medical treatments and healthcare.
What do you like most about your job?
In my role, what I find most fulfilling is witnessing the impact of mathematics in the real world, particularly in the context of saving lives and enhancing patient well-being. It’s incredibly rewarding to see how the application of mathematical principles directly contributes to improving medical treatments and ultimately benefiting patients. Moreover, my strong interest in chemistry adds an extra interest as I appreciate the crossover between pharmaceuticals and statistics. I thought the only thing you could do with maths was finance when I was in school, but there are so many different options.
What stimulated your interest in maths, and when?
Since Year 10 I knew I would pursue a maths degree as I always enjoyed maths class and excelled in it. During my A levels, my love for maths continued to develop as we started exploring more real-life applications of mathematics. This deeper understanding of the practical uses of mathematics solidified my passion for the subject and reinforced my decision to continue my academic journey in mathematics.
What influenced your career choice?
My passion for maths and interest in chemistry have played a significant role in shaping my career path. The prospect of using mathematics to improve patient lives and contributing to the advancement of medicine has been a driving force in my decision to pursue a career that allows me to leverage both disciplines. The use of mathematics and chemistry in the context of healthcare and medicine has been a compelling and motivating factor in guiding my career choices.
Which skills do you consider to be essential for your job?
For students aspiring to pursue a career in medical statistics, possessing an eagerness to learn and having a keen interest in mathematics is fundamental. A curiosity and willingness to learn new concepts and methodologies is so crucial. Companies don’t expect perfection when you join straight out of university, they want to see your passion and new enthusiasm for the industry.
Any advice you may have for other individuals considering your career path?
My advice for individuals interested in pursuing a career related to mathematics is to consider taking a placement year to gain valuable experience and in-depth knowledge of the industry. A placement year provides the opportunity to apply statistical knowledge, allowing for hands-on experience with statistical analysis, data management and research methodologies within the healthcare or pharmaceutical industry. There are so many benefits to a placement, like being able to try out a job without long-term commitment. You get to take a test drive the industry – and get paid!
Your future career plans?
My future career plans involve returning to university to complete my integrated masters in maths at the University of Bath after my placement finishes. After this, I’m not quite sure yet. But I am sure my love for maths will grow and develop and I still have time to figure out long term plans!
Featured Image by Reto Scheiwiller from Pixabay
