SCD Industrial Placement Student Profiles
Hal Dodman – Technical Impact Assistant 2020 - 21
Hal Dodman, from Eastbourne, is currently studying BSc Biomedical Sciences at Reading University. Originally studying pharmacy, he made the decision to switch courses, instead focusing on understanding how human biological systems function and how they are targeted and manipulated to provide treatments for a multitude of conditions.
Working alongside fellow placement student Rebecca Humble as a technical impact assistant in the Scientific Computing Department (SCD), Hal is helping to promote the value and impact of the computational expertise and research within the department.
“My main responsibilities surround the improvement of the department's website, which has become outdated and is not particularly user-friendly. I am currently reviewing the site for errors and out-of-date content and suggesting changes to its design and functionality. Once trained by the web team, I will be implementing these changes so that the work carried out by SCD can reach as wide an audience as possible! Otherwise, I am keen to get involved in more public engagement activities to help inspire kids to pursue careers in science."
The role within SCD's impact team appealed to Hal as he felt, “I always had an aptitude for English and writing essays but had always enjoyed understanding science. I saw this as an opportunity to take advantage of my skills, and thought I could fill a niche, as many scientists often complain that they struggle with explaining things in simple terms."
Hal is a new starter at STFC, but after two weeks he says, “I appreciate that I am trusted to get on with the work that I am assigned. Saying this, I feel like the culture in SCD is very friendly, which makes it easy to ask questions if I need help. I also enjoy being able to tell my friends about the work that STFC completes and their role in major projects!"
“Starting my placement from home has been an enjoyable challenge, made far easier by the welcoming of the team I work with. From the get go, I was introduced to other members of the department, who meet daily to have an informal catch-up to discuss topical events. This made the transition from student to professional that much smoother. I have also been provided by the STFC with all the equipment that I would need – including an adjustable desk chair, laptop and dual screens – which makes it possible to do my job effectively!"
For students who may be contemplating applying for a placement opportunity at SCD, Hal recommends, “I would say that if that if the role ticks the boxes of what you want to achieve, don't be worried about what background you're coming from. I was worried that, as I study biology, I wouldn't be able to understand a lot of what is being said – but so far this doesn't seem to be the case. My supervisor has also gone out of her way to ask me what I want to achieve from my placement and is organising appropriate training to help me do this."
In his spare time, Hal enjoys playing 5-a-side football and getting out on the golf course, although he reports that he still has plenty of work to do on his swing.
