Alessandra Rafkin: Everything I have learnt as a Phase1 trainee at Fermion will give me a strong foundation for my future career

Hi there! I’m Alessandra, a fifth-year chemistry student at the University of Turku. This summer, I’ve been working at Fermion as an R&D Chemist Trainee. My duties have included laboratory work on API (active pharmaceutical ingredient) syntheses, literature research and writing scientific work reports. Working on API syntheses has highlighted the complexity and sophistication of the multi-step reactions, which has been really interesting and educational.  
 
At the beginning of the summer, I received a comprehensive induction to my tasks, which ensured that I got off to a good start. At Fermion, I have been encouraged to develop, and I feel that the time spent on my induction has been reflected in the quality and meaningfulness of my work. My job has offered a good amount of responsibility and challenges, and help has always been available when needed.  
 
The work community has been one of the best things about Fermion. I was warmly welcomed as part of the team from day one. I've been able to work with top experts in a professional but relaxed atmosphere.  
 
Fun events and mentoring in small groups have been arranged for Phase1 trainees during the summer and these have provided great opportunities to meet new people and network with other Orionees. I have also been given valuable advice for my future career during the small-group mentoring.  
 
To sum up, my summer at Fermion has been full of learning, challenges and achievements. I have gained valuable work experience in API synthesis and everything that I have learned at Fermion provides a strong foundation for my future career in drug development. I have hugely enjoyed the scientifically interesting and rewarding work. This summer has convinced me even more that I want to pursue a career in drug development and synthetic chemistry.  
 
Best wishes,   
Alessandra