Working in the Science
Industry
Durham Sixth Form Centre
Project Summary
‘How can we, as scientists, improve global healthcare?’
In this project, students will experience and develop their knowledge of the science
industry by researching the pharmaceutical industry and simulating the production of a
new drug. They will also learn first-hand from an industry professional. From visiting
MSD, the focus of this unit will be the synthesis of medication. They will consider the
synthesis of a specific medication from raw materials to a commercial product. Learners
will know communication practices, how laboratories are designed, how information is
stored in laboratory information management (LIMS) and how to work safely in a
scientific workplace.
Skill development
Students will:
•Know how procedures are followed and communicated in the scientific
workplace
•Be able to design a scientific laboratory (QC Lab).
•Know about laboratory information management systems
•Be able to demonstrate safe working practices in the scientific workplace.
National Curriculum subject content
BTEC L3 CERTIFICATE APPLIED SCIENCE (QCF)
Unit 2 - Working in the Science Industry
Cultural capital
This project developed authentic scientific skills
linked to the science industry, and in particular,
the local pharmaceutical industry. Students
learnt about the employment possibilities in their
local area, and more generally, about the range
of job opportunities within the field by simulating
the creation and production of a new drug for the
market. This actually tied in with the early stages
of the global Covid-19 pandemic, so students
were able to make authentic, real-world links and
access authentic media reports and information.
