June 10, 2025, by Jackie Thompson

My MediCity experience: A first-hand look at innovation, industry and impact

By Akshaya Kerupagaran, Biochemistry and Molecular Medicine Undergraduate

When we think about career opportunities in science and innovation, it’s easy to picture the big names, but some of the most exciting, hands-on experiences are happening quietly inside small and medium-sized enterprises ( SMEs).

From showcase to start-up

Earlier this year, I had the opportunity to attend an SME Showcase thanks to the university’s Careers team. The event was a great introduction to the world of SMEs, giving me a first look at how these organisations operate, the kinds of roles they offer, and the impact one can have when working in a smaller team.

On hearing about their exciting work, I was keen to see what this innovation looked like up close, not just in theory but in practice. It was this experience that motivated me to apply for a place on the MediCity site visit, which offered a chance to see these principles in action and if this kind of environment might be the right fit for me.

I was excited to attend the MediCity visit because I wanted to get beyond the theory and experience of what working in an SME might actually look like (particularly in a highly innovative space like healthcare).

MediCity, as a dedicated hub for life sciences start-ups and scale-ups, felt like the perfect environment to explore this. I hoped the visit would give me practical insight into how innovation is driven in small businesses and whether this kind of work environment aligned with my own career aspirations.

Inside MediCity

During the site visit, we heard from entrepreneurs and employees working in various MediCity-based companies including NuVision Biotherapies, 4D Medicine, Locate Bio, Inaphaea BioLabs and ValiRx PLC.

They shared an afternoon of insightful presentations, tours and a question and answer session speaking about the challenges of getting a product to market, balancing scientific development with regulatory requirements, and the agility required when working in a small team.

From gaining insight into specialised equipment to learning about amniotic membrane for regenerative eye treatments, what struck me most was the versatility and responsibility that people in these businesses held. With fewer layers of hierarchy, employees are often closely involved in decision-making and can see the tangible impact of their work – something that really appeals to me.

Why SMEs caught my attention: What I learned

The experience built on what I’d learned during the SME Showcase  and my understanding of research and development (R&D) and commercial application.

Both the Showcase and the MediCity visit showed me that SMEs offer something equally valuable as larger companies: the chance to learn quickly, take on a variety of tasks, and contribute meaningfully from the outset. I now see SMEs as environments where I could grow not just professionally, but personally too.

For students considering careers with SMEs, my biggest piece of advice is: don’t be afraid to make the first move. Smaller companies may not have the same visibility as large corporations, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t looking for people like you.

Take advantage of events like the SME Showcase, ask questions, and don’t hesitate to follow up with employers you meet. A short, polite message showing interest in their work can go a long way.

Overall, the MediCity visit brought to life everything I had learned at the SME Showcase. It confirmed that working in an SME can be just as dynamic, impactful, and rewarding as any role in a larger organisation — and perhaps even more so for those who thrive in flexible, innovative environments.

Join our careers events such as careers fairs and employer recruitment events as we invite a wide range of employers onto campus throughout the academic year. If you need advice on identifying companies including SMEs, talk to one of our team.

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