First Year Induction: Within the first month of study, PhD students and their supervisors will be invited to meet the IBioIC team and the rest of the cohort at an Induction Day event. The aim of the event is to provide an overview of the programme, what to expect and an introduction to working with industry.
Cohort training blocks: Throughout the year, students attend 2/3 residential training blocks of 2/3 days in length, either in Glasgow or at one of our academic partner institutions. The topics covered vary depending on student and industry need. Theses course are usually delivered cross-cohort to enable network development and to enable students to learn from their peers. 
Introduction to STEM and Public engagement: This is a full day training session covers communication skills, body language, vocal inflection and also “Powerful Practical’s” training which looks at how you can turn a good idea into an activity. It also addresses health and safety, planning, and pitching your message at a useful level. All IBioIC CTP students are required to undertake at least two days of STEM activities per year and this training is designed to support this activity. STEM engagement to date has included presenting at science fairs, participating in the Leaders in Science programme and mentoring first year university students through the Scottish Mobility Foundation scheme. 

 

IBioIC Conference: As part of the IBioIC CTP training programme, all our students attend the IBioIC Annual Conference held in Glasgow every January/ February. In addition to attending, our 2nd, 3rd and 4th year PhDs are also encouraged to compete for speaker slots and to enter the conference poster competition. This opportunity enables the students to make direct contact with industry from an early stage and to start thinking of career possibilities after their studies.

Annual Symposium: The annual symposia provides an opportunity for students and supervisors to network with the other students in the cohort and representatives from industry. Students will also get the opportunity to discuss their research and undertake additional training.

Residential retreat: Towards the end of Year 2, students will be given the opportunity to attend a 2/3 day residential retreat. This will give students the opportunity to develop lifelong connections that will endure beyond the completion of their studies. IBioIC will provide support to arrange the retreat with significant input from student representatives. During the retreat, students are expected to discuss their research project, future career plans and undertake additional intensive training. The retreat also provides an opportunity to have fun as a group. 

 

Bioprocessing Practical Training: IBioIC is in the fortunate position of managing two open access commercial scale-up facilities: RapidBio at University of Strathclyde and FlexBio at Heriot Watt University. Bespoke practical training courses are delivered as part of the training programmes including an intensive Industry Simulator course delivered in Year 3.
 

Student-led Delivery Groups: Every year, students are placed within a cross cohort delivery group to work on an agreed output. Delivery of this output is showcased at the IBioIC Annual Conference. This exercise is student-led and aims to: 
o    Develop team working and leadership skills; 
o    Raise awareness of where IB fits within the current climate; and
o    Provide experience of presenting to an industrial audience 

 

Personal development planning: Throughout the four year training, students will be expected to manage and regularly updated a Personal Development Plan (PDP). This enables the student to identify future aspirations and the skill development training required to reach those goals. PDPs are submitted to IBioIC for review to help shape the training programmes for future years. 
 

 

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