Skip to main content

Lucy Stephenson: From Biology Graduate to Industry Researcher

Lucy graduated from Newcastle University with a BSc in Biology this summer and quickly secured an internship as an Associate Researcher at Procter & Gamble in June

14 December 2025

Lucy describes the role as an invaluable opportunity to apply her academic knowledge in a real-world setting. “I’m gaining so much valuable experience and really enjoying my time working for the company,” she explained. Her dissertation, which focused on enzymes, provided her with a strong foundation in research skills and scientific problem-solving, skills that have stood her in good stead to thrive in her current position.

While Lucy recognises that many students choose to undertake a year in industry during their degree programme, she feels the path she took worked perfectly for her.

“I can definitely see the benefits of a placement year, but for me, going straight into an internship after graduating was the right choice. It allowed me to build on my degree immediately and step into a role where I could contribute and learn at the same time.”

Lucy’s journey shows the flexibility of Newcastle’s science degrees and the diverse opportunities open to graduates, equipping students with the skills and confidence to succeed and make a meaningful impact in leading organisations across the science and technology sector.