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Matti Müller - Biology Laboratory Technician
Transitioning university to traineeship – with success!
For many people, quitting university studies sounds difficult or even negative, but that doesn't have to be the case. Before beginning his traineeship at Saarland University in 2018, Matti Müller studied Applied Pharmacy at another university. While the study programme may have not been the right fit for him, the subject certainly was. That's why Matti switched his degree programme for a biology laboratory technician traineeship – after researching, applying and being accepted to the programme, of course.
Today, he works as a biology lab tech in a pharmaceutical biology lab at Saarland University, where a position had opened up just as Matti was completing his traineeship.
'My job at Saarland University is varied and I learn a lot. Plus, I get to work together with many different colleagues.'
Besides general laboratory and organizational tasks, Matti's job includes working together with pharmaceutical science doctoral students on experimental projects and supporting pharmacy students participating in lab courses. 'My favourite part of the job is helping with experiments around the lab or conducting my own. These can range from cell cultures to PCR experiments, for example. It all depends on the research project, but they all have to do with inflammatory processes and the GILZ protein.'
Matti starts his day at around 8 o'clock and, like many people, begins by logging into his computer and checking his emails, especially keeping an eye on orders for laboratory supplies. Then, he usually discusses the plan and tasks for the day with trainees and heads to the chemistry laboratory. While Matti doesn't teach the trainees, he can put himself in their shoes, knows all their workflows and can answer questions, as he was a trainee himself not too long ago. Matti spends most of his time at work in the lab performing experiments, ensuring that necessary supplies are available and making sure that laboratory instruments are clean and sterile.
What two words would Matti use to describe Saarland University? Modern and secure.
The opportunity to collaborate with young, friendly colleagues in a relaxed work environment is a particularly positive aspect for Matti. When starting work at Saarland University, something that really impressed Matti was the number of people who work here and the wide variety of laboratories and research topics on campus. That's something that you can only truly appreciate once you've worked behind the scenes.
One highlight of Matti's career so far was his work in the youth and trainee delegation (Jugend- und Ausbildungsvertretung) at Saarland University, where he served as chairperson during his entire term. Working with trainees and building connections between the Saarbrücken and Homburg campuses were also a highlight of his time in the youth and trainee delegation.
Outside of work, he enjoys watching football (including, of course, Saarbrücken's own FCS) and painting – a hobby which Matti began as a creative outlet.