Science Changed the Course of My Career

After completing her secondary education, Abbie Lowe attended Long Road Sixth Form College where she studied A-level Biology, Chemistry and English literature with a view to going to university to study childcare. With a university place already secured, Abbie began to reconsider her further education options and started to explore the ways in which she could incorporate her love of science with her career.

Abbie went on to secure an apprenticeship with Cavendish Laboratories at Cambridge University with day release at Cambridge Regional College to complete a Level 3 Diploma in Applied Science.

Abbie said, “I have never had a clear idea of what I would like to do in my career, however, I am thoroughly enjoying my role as Research Lab Technician. On my day release at CRC, the course covers a wide range of topics, which I find interesting and the fact that the course all 100% coursework-based suits my learning style.”

In her personal life, Abbie has had significant hurdles to overcome and in spite of this, she has maintained a 100% attendance rate, consistently achieves distinction in her coursework and performs beyond expectations in her apprenticeship.

In the workplace, Abbie has thoroughly embraced the opportunity to further her expertise in the industry working alongside highly trained scientists, contributing to PHD level work, and supporting research projects that has seen her assisting colleagues with their research projects. Abbie has also attended numerous professional events to promote apprenticeships, careers in physics and women in engineering.

Since starting on her apprenticeship journey, Abbie has completed her Level 3 and Level 4 qualifications and now plans to continue her studies to Level 5 in Electrical and Electronic Engineering, while developing her career with the Cavendish Laboratories to build a strong CV and further her knowledge and understanding of research science.