Here at Quotient Sciences, our volunteers are at the heart of what we do - advancing the world of medicine. Ultimately, without our volunteers, we simply could not contribute to the development of future medicines.
We are passionate about each and every volunteer, ensuring they have the best experience they possibly can. This is why we have the wonderful Elaine!
Whether you are coming to Quotient Sciences for a 36-night residential or a short 2-night stay, you will almost definitely have the pleasure of coming across our wonderful Volunteer Liaison Officer.
Elaine spends a lot of time with our volunteers and brings fun and enjoyment to each individual’s stay in our clinic.
Find out more about Elaine here…
Tell us a bit about yourself?
I have always worked in Customer Services roles and I am passionate about creating positive experiences. Working as a Liaison Officer at Quotient Sciences and spending so much time in the clinic, gives me the opportunity to pay it back – to use all my skills in a way that makes a difference to our volunteers.
How long have you worked at Quotient Sciences?
I have been with Quotient Sciences now for nearly 4 years; it has been different every day, one challenge after another. It has been brilliant, and I would not change it for the world.
What does your role at Quotient Sciences involve?
My role at Quotient Sciences involves looking after the volunteers, making sure they have the best experience that they can. I am with our volunteers from the beginning of their journey to the end, whether it be the application stage, inductions or for their stay in clinic – where I will speak with them on a daily basis- just to make sure everything is going well. If I can help them with anything at all, then I will. .
Dosing is one small part of our volunteers experience, so I am there to help keep them entertained; from Movie Monday – to a quiz or a bingo session, our volunteers can select the activities they want to get involved in!
Of course, there are some things we can’t do here- we can’t do a spa day, or a pool and gym session, but we are always open and honest with our volunteers as to what’s involved, - then everyone can leave happy and fulfilled and ready to tell their friends all about their great experiences at Quotient Sciences.
At the end of each study, I give out feedback forms to ask how our volunteers rate their experience and from this I am able to take action on any areas they feel we can improve. We also have a Volunteer Advocacy panel whereby we engage and consult with a panel of our regular volunteers on things we would like to change or feel are not working to get a volunteers perspective and views on the matter.
What do you find most rewarding about your role?
There are so many things that I find rewarding about my role - having an effect on peoples’ experiences here is rewarding in itself. Knowing our volunteers have contributed to the research that we do here is hugely important and saying I have been a part of that is a huge reward.
What advice would you give to someone considering taking part in a trial at Quotient Sciences?
If I was to speak to a potential volunteer, which I do every day, I will always say Quotient Sciences is a place where our volunteers are valued; ultimately, it all starts with them. Without them, we could not do what we do and there wouldn’t be further advancements in medicines. If you are thinking about applying, I would say just do it! You would be invited in for a look around and a chat about expectations from both Quotient Sciences and you as a volunteer once you have applied and if you decide it’s not for you, then that’s ok.
We know you are passionate about making our volunteers experience the best it can be, but what passion/interest do you hold outside of work?
I am all about fitness and being happy. Having a family has inspired me to be the best mum and a role model for them. Whether it be running with the kids for fun or running a marathon to raise money for the charity, I am an ambassador for Shaw Mind Foundation in Newark, I am most happy in my gym gear, hair up, makeup free. It is a huge contrast to the smart dress and lipstick during my working week!
Kids these days have so many influences - social media, video games, reality TV stars etc. I want to make sure they want to listen to my advice – aspire to be someone who makes a positive impact in the real world. To dream big. Bungee jumping off a crane, walking on hot coals, if mum can – they can.
Finally, how would you sum up your job in three words?
Fun – impactful – worthwhile
I genuinely feel part of the solution – In a world that is full of illness and life changing disease; it is a privilege to work for Quotient Sciences, where we work really hard to be a part of the solution. It really does start with all of us.