Matilda Pickard
Name: Matilda Pickard
Course: MSc Biology
Year of Study: 3
Graduation Year: 2026
What work experience did you do?
I completed a six-week internship at the Roslin Institute (University of Edinburgh), where I worked on classic embryology experiments to study limb formation in chick embryos.
What was it that inspired you to look for work experience?
I hope to pursue a PhD in the future, and I wanted to build practical experience in research to prepare myself and strengthen my skills ahead of postgraduate study.
Why did you choose to do work experience in this area?
In the next academic year, I will begin my master’s project in developmental biology. This internship gave me a head start with techniques I will be using, while also confirming that I really enjoy working in the lab and want to pursue a research career long-term.
Give a brief snapshot of your role:
- Learnt and performed classic chick embryology techniques, including embryo dissection and manipulation.
- Progressed from supervised training to completing experiments independently.
- Worked alongside experienced researchers, developing good laboratory practice and experimental design skills.
How did the bursary award support you in gaining experience?
After being rejected by multiple funding bodies I was sure I would not be able to complete this internship despite getting a confirmed place in the Davey lab. Without this support, I would not have been able to afford to undertake the placement.
What were the most enjoyable aspects of your role?
I particularly enjoyed being part of a research environment, learning from PhD students and postdocs, and seeing how a collaborative lab works day to day.
What were the challenges?
At first, I found the technical aspects of embryology quite difficult, especially the delicate dissections. However, with practice and guidance, I was able to improve my technique and gain confidence.
Did you have any worries or concerns before your work experience and if so how were they dealt with and overcome?
I was initially worried about not having the necessary skills and being overwhelmed in a professional lab environment. My supervisor and colleagues were very supportive, and through structured training I gradually built up my confidence and skills.
What specific or transferable skills did you develop through the work experience?
- Practical laboratory skills (microscopy, embryo handling, dissection, hybridisation chain reaction, PCR amplification etc).
- Time management and organisation when carrying out multi-step experiments.
- Problem-solving and persistence when techniques didn’t work at first.
- Communication and teamwork.
Did the work experience give you any insights and have these influenced your career pathway?
Yes, the internship confirmed that I enjoy practical research and want to continue in academia. It also showed me that working in a lab is not as daunting as it first seems.
Do you have any words of wisdom for future students looking to gain work experience?
Don’t be afraid to step outside your comfort zone. Even if you don’t have all the skills at the start, internships are about learning and you won’t be expected to know anything at the beginning. Do not be afraid to ask questions (even if they feel silly), this is how you learn and get the most out of the experience!
