An interview with James Huscroft at Campden BRI

What attracted you to a Food Science Degree?
I´ve always been fascinated with food! Science was my strong point at school and I quickly realised that I wanted to work in the food industry.

Why did you choose to spend your placement year at Campden BRI?
A student at the University of Nottingham told me great things about her placement here, so I researched the company and felt that it was a fantastic opportunity to learn from experts.

What were your initial thoughts about Campden BRI?
When I first started here I was extremely nervous; however, I was met with smiles and friendly faces which put me at ease. Having spent a year working with a wide range of people, I can honestly say that it´s a pleasure to work here. Everyone is willing to help whenever you need it.

What did a typical day at Campden BRI involve?
No day was ever the same. I could be calibrating equipment, carrying out contract work on-site in Chipping Campden or off-site at factories, analysing data, writing reports, presenting to Member Interest Groups, representing Campden BRI at events or answering enquiries.

What has been the greatest challenge you have faced?
Dealing with the pressure associated with process development or validation trials at clients´ factories was sometimes very difficult. While I would do my best to go above and beyond to accomplish the deliverables, it was vitally important to keep to the schedule as accurately as possible to minimise the impact on the client´s production.

What have been your greatest achievements?
My greatest achievement was seeing my name published on a Research & Development report for a project on which I had been involved in the practical work, data analysis and report writing.

In what way has your placement year surprised you the most?
The biggest surprise was the level of responsibility that I was given by my manager and my team early on. This has allowed me to grow and experience hands-on learning.

* Each year Campden BRI employs up to10 university students on 1 year industrial placements, and provides around 25 one-week work experience places for students from local schools