My internship at Genomics England

Health data research involves collecting, analysing, and linking information about people’s health, to improve our understanding of diseases. In this blog, Samuel Omotosho shares his experience working as an intern in the Health Data Research programme at Genomics England. 

Why did I chose this internship?

I have a long-term interest in the intersection between technology, data and healthcare, and considering how technologies can be used to solve problems within medicine and potentially influence practice.  

Genomics England has been the perfect place to see my interests come together, as I have been able to see what goes on behind the scenes in a company that likely will have significant influence on the future of the NHS. I’ve been able to gain new perspectives and insights that I wouldn’t necessarily have experienced during my other studies. 

The journey to Genomics England

I am a medical student at Barts and the London School of Medicine and Dentistry, having just completed the 4th year of my studies.  

Throughout my years of studying, I have explored different ways in which technological innovation may shape medical practice. For example, I began learning to code around a year ago - partially out of general curiosity, but also due to a wider interest in how technological advances can be integrated into the medical field, to improve the prevention and treatment of disease.  

I also recently wrote a short literature review evaluating the potential of advances in artificial intelligence (AI) imaging technologies to improve stroke diagnosis and treatment. It became clear to me that the use of AI and data science in healthcare settings could positively transform patient care. Since becoming an inter at Genomics England, I’ve had many more opportunities to further shape and explore my understanding of the connections between healthcare, research and technology.

My experience as an intern 

It has been fascinating to learn about the history and context of Genomics England, as well as the extensive future plans the government has for genomic medicine. Genomics England clearly has an important role to play in supporting these ambitions, a key example being the Generation Study, which aims to sequence the genomes of 100,000 newborn babies to look for a defined set of treatable, rare genetic conditions.  

My internship was primarily based within the Scalable Tech team. Talking with members of this team helped to highlight the importance of improving the scalability and resilience of underlying computer systems architecture to meet increasing demands. It was also interesting to learn more about the different components of these systems, which included a particular emphasis on storage, networking and high-performance computers, and how these components fit together. 

Highlights of my internship 

A key highlight for me was learning about the healthcare and research aspects of Genomics England. In particular, a discussion with Kate Witowska, the Strategic Partnership Director, who talked through how the organisation works alongside researchers, as well as some of the research projects currently taking place.  

It was also interesting to learn about how and why various financial, ethical and logistical considerations are taken into account, helping further emphasise the multidisciplinary nature of the industry and the wide range of professionals from a variety of fields that Genomics England brings together to achieve its aims. 

Another highlight was my meeting with Rich Scott, Chief Executive Officer of Genomics England. We discussed the organisation’s relationship with the government, and explored the details of how new strategies are developed and pitched to the Department of Health and Social Care, all with the aim of securing funding and driving forward a healthcare policy that incorporates genomic medicine. It was also encouraging to talk to someone with a medical background and explore some of the unique overlaps between the seemingly very different fields of medical practice and executive leadership, learning about what skills and experiences translate between these different settings.  

I’ve also had the opportunity of working with other Health Data Research interns on a group technical challenge. We represented a wide range of academic backgrounds and different experiences, but were all interested in healthcare and data science in some way. Our different skillsets complemented each other well, and it has been a great opportunity to meet other individuals who share common interests.  

What’s coming up next for me? 

My experience as an intern with Genomics England has motivated me to continue learning about genomics and the other technologies that may shape the future of clinical care. I now have a better understanding of how and why genomic medicine is likely to be integrated in clinical settings, as well as a greater appreciation for the underlying technologies and computer architecture that will make these changes possible. I hope to be actively engaged as these changes take place in the future and impact clinical practice.  

What advice do you have for those thinking of applying? 

To anyone considering applying - just do it! Regardless of your level of experience, I’d strongly recommend applying to anyone with an interest in the role tech and data play in healthcare.  

Health Data Research offers a wide range of internships to students of varied academic backgrounds. My internship experience was tailored to my level of knowledge and experience to ensure it would be the best learning opportunity for me.  

If you get an interview, don’t stress - but make sure that you prepare well and are able to clearly state your motivations for applying, why you’re interested in the organisation, and what you’re hoping to get out of the experience.  

Finally, if you’re lucky enough to land at Genomics England like me, you’re sure to be welcomed into a very friendly team. Make sure you get the most out of the internship by being proactive, and getting involved in any opportunities offered. Don’t be afraid to ask any questions, but also make sure to research the things you don’t understand to try and fill any gaps in your knowledge and better understand the bigger picture of the company as a whole. Good luck!  

If you want to learn more about the work at Genomics England, checkout the other blogs. You can also visit the careers page to see what opportunities are available.