S&E from Campus to Career: Emma Cooper - Graduate Engineer with Pfizer

Emma Cooper from Broadford in Clare graduated from the Bachelor of Engineering in Biomedical Engineering programme at University of Limerick in 2024.

Now working with Pfizer at their Grange Castle facility as a graduate engineer. We caught up with Emma to ask about the course, her time at UL, and any advice she might have for Leaving Certificate students.

Why did you choose the BE in Biomedical Engineering?

As part of my leaving certificate, I studied Maths, Chemistry and Biology. These were subjects that kept me engaged and interested, they challenged me to learn about the world around me. Finishing school, I knew I could not pick Maths or Science over the other and decided Biomedical Engineering could offer me both. For me, Engineering combines scientific, mathematical and technological principles to solve problems. There are countless problems that need to be solved but the biomedical field develops technology and medicine to improve human health. Having this option offered at UL, somewhere so close to home, it only made sense! 

What did you enjoy most about the course?

The Common Entry Engineering first year gave me exposure to different aspects of engineering I might not have previously considered. Although I knew I wanted to follow the Biomedical route, I had the opportunity to take modules in electrical, computer and design and manufacturing engineering. The range of subjects across the four years was certainly engaging, varying from Engineering Maths to Industrial Organisation to Orthopaedic Biomechanics to Tissue Engineering to note a few. 

There are cohorts of engineers mixed for the common first year and in the following years there is still crossover between mechanical, biomedical and aeronautical groups etc. It allows for students to make connections outside of their course yet within similar disciplines. Still there is a good balance between these general larger modules and the smaller sized, more tailored subjects for biomedical engineering. With these classes, students have the option to work and learn collectively with their peers in a more familiar setting, especially as the years progress. University life can be hectic, so having constants, such as a class group, learning and experiencing with you can be comforting. 

What did you enjoy about UL and what is student life like here?

UL has some amazing study as well as extracurricular facilities. The campus is vast and yet very purpose built, with usually no lecture too far from another. The Glucksman library was one of my favourite places. Somewhere to meet your friends and study at your own pace, at a desk or PC, in the silent areas or group study rooms. Adjacent to the academic areas, UL has some lovely spots for a coffee, and of course Stables for a pint, along with beautiful walkways and sports facilities. From the clubs and societies to events from UL Student Life, there is always ways for students to get involved in activities and experience what there UL has to offer! 

Where did you complete your Cooperative Education Experience?

I was able to complete my Cooperative Education in Edward’s Lifesciences. Here I worked as a quality engineering intern working between the Castletroy and Shannon sites. It was an amazing opportunity to immerse myself in the medical device industry and learn how to use my theoretical knowledge in real-world applications. In engineering the nine-month coop is so important, to learn how manufacturing plants can be organised, how an engineer’s work contributes to the overall operations and the importance of Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). I gained invaluable experience in quality control, engineering documentation, projects, clean areas and various equipment and systems. I developed many skills which supported me through my final years of university and now as I am working in industry again.

How did UL support you throughout your studies?

I had some incredible lecturers throughout my years in UL, who kept learning interesting and were willing to help you as best they could to understand their subjects. There were also many researchers and PHD students who helped me to work through my final year project, in tutorials and in the assigned labs throughout the four years. 

Other resources like the Maths and Science Learning Centres also give students the extra support they may require. Studying new and challenging topics can be daunting, but having the option of tutoring or assistance, is reassuring!

Can you update us on your career, does it still hold relevance to what you would have studied in UL?

Since graduating in August 2024, I have been working as a graduate engineer at Pfizer, as part of their rotational graduate programme. This has been an amazing opportunity to move to Dublin and to work at a state-of-the art manufacturing facility in Grange Castle. It has been a big change to move away from medical devices to the pharmaceutical industry, but it is important in life to reach out of your comfort zone. I am very much still working in the engineering field making use of my transferable working skills. I use the knowledge of quality, GMP, biological safety, and mechanical and thermodynamic principles daily. All of which I gained as part of my UL degree and Co Op experience. I am constantly developing these skills while furthering my learning and experience as an engineer in the biomedical/pharma world. 

What advice would you give to Leaving Certificate students considering the next step in their career journey?

It can be scary to figure out what the next steps are for those doing the Leaving Certificate. It might be difficult with all the information and options available but try not to let it overwhelm you. I think when deciding or researching a career path, keep it simple. What excites or interests you? What are the requirements for the career path? Can you see yourself enjoying doing that particular job? If you are curious about something reach out to those with experience for first-hand experience!