The lecturers try to capture innovations from the market and discuss them during classes. Thanks to this, students of biochemical engineering are up to date with what is happening on the market. Lodz University of Technology - I chose well.
Creating top quality fuels and diesel oils, learning about the physicochemical parameters of diesel oils and biocomponents - and all this in the leading company in the industry! Daria Duś, a graduate of biochemical engineering at the Faculty of Process and Environmental Engineering, talks about the opportunities offered by an internship at Orlen Laboratorium - a company within ORLEN S.A. Capital Group.
You graduated with a Bachelor of Science in biochemical engineering. What does studying biochemical engineering look like?
The field of biochemical engineering covers topics related to biology, chemistry, microbiology and biotechnology. These are studies that I would recommend to anyone who has ever been interested in conducting experiments in a laboratory, doing scientific tests and who is interested in the above-mentioned topics. In the first semesters of studies, you gain knowledge in biology, chemistry and mathematics. These are the subjects that prepare you for further stages of your education. In the higher semesters, you gain knowledge in biochemistry, engineering, among others, process engineering with elements of automation and computer science.
You started your professional career during your studies, taking advantage of PKN ORLEN internship programme. What do you do as an intern?
My tasks mainly include making simulation blends of diesel oils with biocomponents and additives as well as carrying out a number of physicochemical analyses. We examine the correctness of sample parameters, including chemical composition, control of viscosity, density or water content. Analyses at ORLEN Laboratorium are performed 24/7, nonstop. This allows us to ensure the highest standard and quality of fuel. Optimal composition of petroleum products is important during changing weather conditions throughout the year. We work to achieve properties that, for example, make it easier to start an engine or improve fuel economy.
What knowledge gained during your studies do you find particularly useful during your internship? And how has the internship complemented your knowledge from your studies?
I think that knowledge in the field of physicochemical and microbiological research is particularly useful. Petroleum products can become microbiologically contaminated, which can lead to poorer fuel quality and clogged filters in vehicles. Therefore, the role of a laboratory technician is to regularly check parameters to prevent such cases. At ORLEN Laboratorium I work using modern and technically advanced equipment that allows you to perform fuel analyses using the latest methods. The knowledge gained at university is also useful during the internship. During my studies I learnt about research methodology and procedures to be followed in a laboratory environment, besides that, during the internship, I also deal with apparatus, which I have already learnt about at university, thanks to that I can perform the tasks entrusted to me more efficiently.
What are the most vivid memories of your studies?
I definitely have fond memories of the time I spent in various laboratory classes. It was in the labs that I could put theory into practice and see all kinds of reactions taking place. I have always enjoyed carrying out experiments and doing scientific tests and I still find it very interesting! I would particularly highlight the Bioprocess Engineering classes. A very interesting subject and - here I thank the academics - taught in an effective and interesting way. Everyone listened with interest to how forward-looking the issues of optimising biochemical and microbiological processes are. It was really engaging!
Why should you decide to do an internship before taking up full-time employment? What does an internship at PKN ORLEN give you?
An internship is the right moment to search for one's professional path, verify expectations towards an employer and is a perfect way to enter the labour market. During an internship, a student has an opportunity to supplement his/her knowledge under the supervision of specialists and gradually improve practical skills in a selected field. ‘Headed for ORLEN’ internship is aimed at people who are taking their first steps on the labour market. For me it is a good opportunity to get to know ‘inside out’ the functioning of a leader on the energy and petrochemical market in Poland that is ORLEN, and to gain experience in one of the Group companies. Above all, the internship at ORLEN Laboratorium gives me great satisfaction and joy! I have an opportunity to develop here, I cooperate with specialists in their fields. I also meet a lot of interesting people, because an internship is not only work, but also interactions between employees!
Why choose Lodz University of Technology?
Lodz University of Technology is one of the largest technical universities in Poland, which is valued by employers in the region and occupies high positions in rankings. This is confirmed, among others, by ‘Perspectives’ ranking, where Lodz University of Technology is ranked 3rd among academic universities in terms of innovation. It offers an extensive educational opportunity and is development oriented. In my opinion, the advantage of our university is the fact that the lecturers try to capture innovations from the market and discuss them during classes. Thanks to this, students are up to date with what is happening on the market.
Interviewer: Dr Aleksandra Pawlik
Photos: ORLEN Laboratorium
ORLEN Laboratorium is a company from the ORLEN S.A. Capital Group and one of the leading Polish companies providing analyses of fuels, petroleum products, water, wastewater, soil and air. The company specialises in providing analytical services in the chemical industry in a network of laboratory facilities located throughout the country.