Student Spotlight - Anita Buglyo

Steady investment and innovation continue to create job opportunities in life sciences (human health) in Scotland, which employed 22,600 people in 2024. And with the sector aiming to grow turnover to more than £10 billion by 2030, skilled individuals are in demand.*

Begin your journey into the highly varied and interesting field of bioscience with our comprehensive introduction to the theoretical and practical aspects of modern sciences. We caught up with a student who has just finished her HNC.

Can you introduce yourself?

My name is Anita Buglyo, and I'm originally from Hungary.

What course are you studying at UHI Perth?

I recently finished my HNC in Bioscience.

How did you hear about UHI Perth?

I heard about UHI Perth through the UHI website.

What were you doing before you came to UHI Perth?

I worked as a biologist in a water quality lab in Hungary.

Why did you decide to pick this course?

I chose this course because I used to enjoy working in a laboratory, and I would like to do the same here in Scotland. To achieve that, I wanted to gain a UK qualification.

What is your favourite thing about the course?

What I really like about the course is that it's not only theoretical, but we also have a lot of practical sessions. I enjoy learning through practical experience, not just from books or lectures. It makes learning more interesting and useful.

Has there been any standout/memorable moments from your course?

I really enjoyed our first lab session, and it made me feel confident about my choice, that I am in a right place.

What knowledge, skills and experience have you gained from your course that will help you when you leave UHI Perth?

I have gained a lot of practical lab experience before, but this course helped me improve my professional language skills, which are important for working effectively in a scientific sector.

Have your lecturers been supportive during your studies?

Our lecturers have always been very supportive, and we have always been able to rely on them. Our teachers were fantastic.

Any other achievements you have gained on your journey?

Besides completing the course, I have improved my professional English, especially the scientific language needed in the lab. I have also gained confidence working in a new environment.

What do you like about the campus/facilities?

I like that the campus has well-equipped, modern facilities that make learning more effective and enjoyable. The environment is welcoming and supportive, which helps students focus on their studies. All in all, it’s a friendly place to study.

You have just finished a placement with Thermo Fisher Scientific, can you tell us about this opportunity?

I was really excited about the opportunity, and I felt that it was something I absolutely couldn’t pass up. I spent four months at Thermo Fisher Scientific, which has a microbiology division in Perth. The main products manufactured there include prepared media filled into plates, tubes, and bottles.

I worked in the Quality Control lab, where my main responsibility was analysing the shelf life of these products at different time points. For example, I inoculated the media to ensure they supported the growth of the intended microorganisms while preventing the growth of any unwanted ones. I also checked the products for contamination, monitored pH levels, and verified that the physical properties remained consistent throughout the shelf life in order to maintain high quality standards.

My mentor was extremely supportive and helpful throughout the placement, she treated me as an equal colleague, which made a huge difference in how confident and motivated I felt. I’d like to take this opportunity to thank her again; I’m truly grateful for everything she did for me. This experience will definitely enrich my CV, and I strongly believe it will help me find a job in the future, if not at Thermo Fisher Scientific, then hopefully somewhere else in the industry.

Have you enjoyed studying at UHI Perth? Any highlights?

I have enjoyed studying at UHI Perth, although it was often challenging to balance family and work commitments. It was also a big step for me to return to studying at over 40 years old, but I’m really glad for taking that step.

Do you have any hobbies or interests outside of your studies?

I am an enthusiastic hobby wildlife photographer. I like how a moment can become a lasting memory. I mainly photograph birds, but I enjoy taking photographs of any kind of wildlife moments I come across. It’s been more than a 15-year hobby now, and I am really proud of my gallery.

What are your future career plans?

Now I’m ready to start looking for a job, ideally in the science sector.

And finally, what advice would you give to someone thinking about studying at UHI Perth?

My advice would be to stay motivated, as motivation is the key to moving forward in life. The path is never straight. Even when you’re at a low point, keep moving forward and don’t give up, because that’s the only way to achieve your goals. And at the end of the journey, you will be grateful to yourself for all your hard work.

Agatha Lewicka (Lead Stability Scientist in the Microbiology Division at Thermo Fisher)

Anita took part in her work experience at Thermo Fisher alongside another UHI Perth student called Rachel. We asked Agatha Lewicka, Lead Stability Scientist in the Microbiology Division at Thermo Fisher how the placement opportunity came about for the students👇

I graduated with a Bachelor with Honours in Applied Science from UHI Perth seven years ago, where I completed two significant placements: one as a Laboratory Technician Assistant at Perth Grammar School in my third year, and another in the Quality Control department of Thermo Fisher Scientific's Microbiology Lab in my fourth year. These experiences were invaluable, and during my final year, I was offered a part-time position at Thermo Fisher Scientific, which led to a full-time role after graduation.

My positive experiences at UHI Perth inspired me to help current students enhance their knowledge, skills, and employability. I discussed this idea with my Supervisor, Laura Gates, and Manager, Dave Palmer, who helped me set up the work placement. I reached out to UHI Perth, and with the support of contacts like Audrey Decou, Joe Burman, and Donna Cousins - as well as the established arrangements by Louise Smart and Ian Snowball from Thermo Fisher Scientific - we successfully facilitated this placement opportunity. It was a collaborative effort aimed at nurturing the next generation of scientific professionals.

How did Rachel and Anita get on during their time with you? 

Rachel and Anita were exceptional during their placement. Their dedication, enthusiasm, knowledge, and friendliness were truly impressive. They consistently demonstrated a strong work ethic and a willingness to learn, making them a pleasure to work with. I received brilliant feedback from both of them and from UHI Perth Lecturer Joe Burman, highlighting their gratitude and helpfulness. I couldn't have asked for better students, and I look forward to mentoring more students in the future.

How important is it for Thermo Fisher to offer placements to students? What benefit do you get from it? 

Offering placements is crucial for Thermo Fisher as it provides students with valuable training and work experience, significantly enhancing their employability. This initiative strengthens our local workforce, benefiting not only the students but also our employees, employers, and the broader community. By hiring well-trained individuals, we improve our product quality, which ultimately benefits patients worldwide.

Additionally, mentoring students allows me to develop my leadership skills and prepares me for future opportunities. This mutually beneficial arrangement fosters growth and innovation within our industry.

Were you able to offer Rachel and Anita any takeaway advice for their future careers? 

I provided Rachel and Anita with constructive feedback on their developmental opportunities and encouraged them to pursue various experiences, such as online training, additional work placements, and staying informed by reading scientific news and publications. I emphasised the importance of persistence and self-esteem in a competitive world.

Additionally, I advised them to step out of their comfort zones when they are ready, apply for jobs, and continuously seek new opportunities, as this is crucial for their development and career growth. My key advice to them was: "If you don't ask, you don't get." I am confident that they have bright futures ahead and will succeed in their chosen careers.

If you are interested in studying Bioscience, applications are still open for September 2025. Find your place at UHI Perth and #ApplyNow >>

*Source = Scottish Development International