1) Describe your internship experience.
My internship at Novozymes was from August 2, 2021 through August 20, 2021. My mentors were an Associate Scientist at the 108 TW Alexander Drive location, and also the Head of Sustainability for Novozymes North America. They reached out to colleagues at their 3 locations, 2 locations in Durham, and 1 in Franklinton and introduced me. I was then able to connect with employees throughout the organization. The bulk of my experiences included shadowing scientists in various labs, touring the manufacturing facilities, touring the distribution facilities, and interviewing people throughout the organization from many different areas.
2) What was the most interesting moment?
All of it was very interesting, but probably being able to do some “work” in the anaerobic chamber. I was fascinated with the idea of being able to work from the outside of the anaerobic chamber, while my hands were in the anaerobic chamber.
3) What was the biggest challenge?
Hitting the ground running. I wanted to interview as many people as I could, to learn about the different opportunities at Novozymes, tour the facilities, and shadow in several different labs to learn and see what type of work was happening. Also, it was right before the beginning of the school year, and I had to prepare for school to start. It was a very hectic time.
4) What is your biggest take away?
Specific to Novozymes, the company fosters a growth mindset, and values its employees. The people I shadowed and interviewed with were all eager to share information with me about their company, their current jobs, their job and education history, and biotech in general. There are a lot of job opportunities, in all different areas of the company.
5) How has your knowledge of career opportunities changed?
I did not know our area (RTP) was one of the 5 hubs in the world for biotech. The industry is growing leaps and bounds, there are opportunities in all areas, requiring anything from a 3 month bioworks certification to a Ph.D. from major universities, and all education in between. I am excited to share this information with our students and colleagues.