What did your job entail?

• Characterised magnetic nanosensor devices to test responses in the presence of different strength magnetic fields. 
• Operated sensitive equipment; using AFM and MFM investigation techniques.
• Conducted experiments on the nucleation, annihilation and manipulation of domain walls and how magnetic beads influence them.
• Prepared chemical solutions of various sized microbeads to be used for imaging techniques.
• Analysed data using a range of scientific specific software and presented findings to peers in presentations and meetings on a weekly basis.

Why did you decide to do a placement?
I wanted clarification on whether or not to continue on a Physics orientated path and how Physics is practically used in a research laboratory.

Would you recommend doing a placement?
Definitely, it provides invaluable experience not only in working in Physics but also in networking and gathering intel on what to do to prepare for future prospects.

How do you think doing a placement has benefited you for the future?
Has greatly helped me in my decisions on whether I want to do a PhD and has also helped me understand what it takes to do real life research for a commercial research company.

Do you have any plans for the future?  If you do, what are your next steps?
My plans for the future includes applying for industrial research; improving my computing skills and possibly doing a PhD.