Mass Spec Analytical is a company that specialises in innovative thermal extraction ion sources for mass spectrometry, delivering versatile, high-quality solutions for forensics, anti-terrorism, and analytical applications.
Amber Ray, a third-year student studying Forensic Science at University of the West of England, approached MSA when looking for a summer work experience. As she is focusing on Forensic Chemistry and Analytical Chemistry in her course, Amber was looking for hands-on experience of working in a laboratory.
MSA brought Amber on board as a Mass Spectrometry Method Developer to assist in testing their new software. Her role involved collecting over 300 samples and evaluating the mass spectrometer’s resistance to environmental suppression across various settings—ranging from public spaces to vehicles—using different swab types and the company’s new compact mass spec technology
Amber did so well the team have now offered for her to stay on working part-time alongside her studies.
Amber says: “I’m in my third year and I now know how to develop my own methods, run the instrument, and how to analyse the spectra. I am now using this knowledge in my studies, where I’m looking at testing cosmetics. It feels good because I’m not going into it blind, and I now have good experience on my CV.
“The team at MSA have been amazing, they’ve been patient when teaching me the instrumentation and getting me involved with their projects. They haven’t made me feel like an intern – I feel like a proper member of the team, and I’ve even been involved in presenting to clients.”
Before Amber worked with MSA she hadn’t been into the Future Space building, but she was excited to find out more about all the businesses there and the opportunities open to students.
“I love Future Space because you can see what all the businesses are up to. You feel like you’re a part of a proper community of people who are all doing amazing stuff. Plus, they hold really good events – especially the beer and pizza networking!”
Thanks to her experience with MSA Amber now knows that she definitely wants to work in Analytical Chemistry when she finishes her degree.
“You can go into a range of different fields with this experience – food industry, pharmaceuticals, forensics – now I know the software and instrumentation and I have a big advantage over a lot of other candidates. It has been a fantastic experience.”
