Composing top-quality fuels and diesel fuels, learning about the physicochemical parameters of diesel fuels and biocomponents - all of these at an industry-leading company! Daria Duś, a graduate student in biochemical engineering at the Faculty of Process Engineering and Environmental Protection, talks about the benefits of an internship at ORLEN Laboratorium in ORLEN Group Company.
You graduated with a bachelor's degree in biochemical engineering. What do studies in this field look like?
Biochemical engineering major deals with issues in the field of biology, chemistry, microbiology and biotechnology. These are studies that I would recommend to everyone who has ever been interested in conducting experiments in the laboratory and is interested in the above-mentioned fields. In the initial semesters of studies, biology, chemistry and mathematics knowledge is acquired. These are subjects that prepare you for further stages of education. Then, in higher semesters, you study biochemistry and engineering along with process engineering combined with elements of automation and IT.
You started your professional career already while studying, taking advantage of PKN ORLEN's internship program. What do you deal with in your internship?
My responsibilities mainly include making simulation blends of diesel fuels with bio-components and additives, as well as carrying out a number of physicochemical analyses. We test the correctness of sample parameters, including chemical composition, control viscosity, density or water content. Analyses at ORLEN Laboratorium are performed on a continuous basis. i.e. 24/7. This allows us to ensure the highest standard and quality of fuel. The optimal composition of petroleum products is important during weather conditions that change throughout the year. We work to achieve such properties which, for example, facilitate starting the engine or affect fuel economy.
What knowledge gained during your studies have you found particularly useful during your internship? And how has the internship complemented your university knowledge?
I think that both knowledge in the area of physical and chemical research and microbiological research is particularly useful. Petroleum products can become microbiologically contaminated, which can lead to a decrease in fuel quality and clogged filters in vehicles. Therefore, the role of the laboratory technician is to regularly check parameters to prevent such cases. At the ORLEN Laboratorium I work on state-of-the-art equipment that allows me to perform fuel tests using the most modern methods. The knowledge gained at the university is also useful during the internship . During my studies I learned about the methodology of testing and procedures for dealing with the laboratory space. Besides, during my internship I also have to deal with the apparatus that I have already used at university, and thanks to this I can perform the tasks entrusted to me more efficiently.
What are your most memorable moments of your university studies?
I definitely have good memories of the time spent at various types of laboratory classes. It was during the laboratories that I could put the theory into practice and see how all reactions take place. I have always liked doing experiments and experiments and it is still very interesting to me! I especially enjoyed bioprocess engineering classes. A very interesting subject and - I would like to thank the scientific staff here - conducted in an accessible and interesting way. Everyone listened with interest to how important issues related to the optimization of biochemical and microbiological processes are for the future. It was really addictive!
Why should you opt for an internship before taking up full-time employment? How does an internship at PKN ORLEN benefit you?
An internship is the right time to find one's own professional path, to verify employer expectations and an excellent way to join the labor market. During the internship, the student has the opportunity to supplement his or her knowledge under the guidance of specialists and gradually improve practical skills in the chosen field. The internship "destination ORLEN " is aimed at people who are taking their first steps in the labor market. For me this is a good opportunity for an inside view of the top petrochemical company in Poland, ORLEN, and gain experience in one of the Group companies. Above all, my internship at ORLEN gives me great satisfaction and joy! Here I have the opportunity to develop as I cooperate with specialists in their fields. I also get to know a lot of interesting people, because an internship is not only work, but also employee interaction!
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 is highly ranked. This is confirmed, among other things, by the "Perspektywy" ranking, where Lodz University of Technology is ranked 3rd among academic universities in terms of innovation. It has a broad educational offer and is focused on development. In my opinion, the advantage of the university is that the lecturers try to spot innovations in the market and discuss them in classes. This way students stay informed about job market trends.
Interviewer: Aleksandra Pawlik
Graphics: Filip Podgórski
Photos: ORLEN Laboratorium
