Which Faculty do you work in?
The Faculty of Science and Engineering
When did you start at Swansea University?
I started in March 2023 as a Technician in the project which involved developing a new bio-molluscicide with a temporary contract.
What attracted you to Swansea University?
A close friend of mine has been working at Swansea University for a long period of her life and highlighted the University as a great opportunity for me given that I have a master’s degree in the food technology branch of chemistry. This would allow me to use my knowledge, which I achieved during my study at university in Ukraine.
Could you tell us about your journey to Swansea? Did you face challenges in coming to work here?
I am from Ukraine and my journey to Swansea wasn’t easy. In February 2022 for obvious reasons, I had to take care of my own and my daughter’s safety. With the help of the UK government, I was able to travel to the UK.
When I moved to the UK, I was unable to speak English and it proved challenging to find a job. Alongside working on temporary contracts in multiple roles, such as a housekeeper and a chef, I studied English at Gower college in the evenings to improve my English and reach a level where I was confident enough to be able to communicate with people.
My first interview for a role at Swansea University wasn’t successful. I saw this as a chance to learn taking on board feedback, and when I applied for a different role as a Laboratory Technician for a temporary research project, I was successful. After a short time working at the University, I realised I wanted to build a career here. When I saw the advertisement to become a Technician (Research Support), I saw this as the perfect opportunity to begin my permanent career in a field that was closely linked to my degree.
First of all, I’ve continued to improve my language skills through communication with colleagues, drafting emails and researching papers. I also continue to develop other skills in IT, Health and Safety, chemical waste management and maintaining and calibrating equipment. I have achieved certificates in First Aid at Work and Chemical First Aid training.
I now feel more confident in being able to support students and academics in the laboratories when needed and I ensure that the laboratories are a safe environment for everyone to work in.
What does your job involve?
My role involves supporting and helping both academics and undergraduate and postgraduate students within research laboratories. This includes providing technical support, equipment support, health and safety and any other support and help required. In addition, I help maintain labs and equipment according to health and safety standards; offer support with procurement and purchasing processes; and network with other technical staff within the Faculty, University and wider higher education or industrial sector to enhance the students and/or research experience.
What are the best things about working at Swansea University?
The culture within my team and more widely, colleagues across the University. Everyone is friendly and supportive and always willing to help when I need it. This has a positive impact on the work environment and gives me the confidence to communicate with a range of people from different backgrounds whilst also providing the opportunity to continually update and upgrade my knowledge and skills.