Research Ireland (Taighde Eireann) Careers

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Science Foundation Ireland (SFI) is the national foundation for investment in research in the areas of STEM, which assists in the development and competitiveness of industry, enterprise, and employment in Ireland. We also promote and support STEM education and engagement to improve awareness and understanding of the value of research to society and to support the STEM careers pipeline.

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Gillian Morgan, Manufacturing Process Specialist

Gillian Morgan is a manufacturing process specialist. Her job involves working on projects that better facilitate production of commercial drugs.

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Who are the people who most influenced your career direction?

In School – My science teacher/My aunt who is a successful business woman.During University – Various lecturers who highlighted the importance of adaptable skills for industry.

Describe a typical day?

When I arrive to work in the morning, I run a report to check what tasks are coming due for our team and also what batches we need to release in order to meet patient demands. These are discussed and prioritized during our morning meetings, along with any issues encountered in manufacturing during the previous 24 hours.Because Johnson & Johnson is a global company, there are often conference calls with colleagues from the US and around the world, to discuss various projects.

What are the main tasks and responsibilities?

My tasks vary from day to day operations and trouble-shooting, to working on projects to better facilitate production of our commercial drugs but also the pipeline of clinical drugs coming through.Through my work, I volunteer take part in initiatives such as Junior Achievement, Special Olympics and J&Js WiSTEM2D initiative, which is focused on encouraging young women to pursue education and careers in STEM.

What are the main challenges?

As with any job in a very regulated industry such as pharmaceuticals, the admin and paperwork can be quite heavy. But this is necessary to ensure the highest quality products are delivered to our patients and customers.

What do you like most?

The opportunities to experience different roles, sectors and cultures within this industry are fantastic.

What is your education to date?

BSc. Biological and Chemical Sciences (with Teacher Education)
Graduate Diploma in Chemical Engineering
Lean/Six Sigma Green Belt Certification
Lean Black Belt Certification (in progress)

What aspects of your education have proven most important for your job?

My somewhat varied education path has taught me the importance of having a willingness to learn new things and being open to change.I completed three job rotations in 2.5 years as part of J&J’s GOLD graduate program, one of which involved moving to Italy, to do a job I’d never done before, in a sector I’d never worked in, learning to speak a language I’d never spoken before.As intimidating as that might sound, it was an amazing experience!

Does your job allow you to have a lifestyle you are happy with?

Yes, right now I’m focused on learning and progressing my career and thankfully that is encouraged in my job and industry. Job security and work-life balance are also valued. And there are opportunities to travel and meet colleagues from across the global organization.

What advice would you give to someone considering this job?

Ignore the stereotypes, or even better, use them as motivation!

What kinds of work experience would provide a good background for this position?

Keep your options open by studying STEM subjects that interest you. Try find student placements or internships in industry.