Even though many of our graduates will have progressed in their careers since completing a case study, they are still of interest to students who wish to gain an understanding of the world of work.

Ensuring that products placed on the market in the EMEA region comply with applicable regulations and promoting sustainable product design in the R&D organisation

Responding to customer enquiries and concerns about product compliance with EU regulations or with their own banned/restricted lists, discussing new product development programs with R&D scientists to provide guidance on components to be avoided to enhance product sustainability. Managing development and implementation of new protocols, guidelines, procedures etc. to ensure that systems are in place for compliance with emerging regulations

It is gratifying to see systems of control develop through implementation and work smoothly so that the business can get on with what it needs to do.

Getting buy-in from commercial and R&D organisations that regulatory compliance is not optional! And that sustainability makes good business sense.

Evolving requirements are a huge challenge. Doing this role well will protect the long-term profitability of the business. There is a wealth of potential to be tapped and interesting challenges to be overcome and the company needs a well motivated team to make sure that we do not get left behind.

Data and database manipulation, project management, chemistry knowledge

Training in the commercial world is almost always on the job. Very steep learning curves (which are exciting to experience)

Product development scientist at the same company. Developing novel compositions of conductive printing inks for the electronics business. From 2002-2009

Further ahead in the field of product stewardship - greater responsibility for strategic direction

Listen hard to what the potential employer is telling you on their website, in their job description and in the interview. Find ways of showing how your skills (not limited to your academic skills) fit what the employer is looking for.

Get as much industrial experience as you can during vacations or sandwich courses. Anything to differentiate yourself from the crowd who have none