University of Dundee hosts Science and Engineering Careers Expo

The University of Dundee’s School of Science and Engineering (SSEN) held its highly anticipated Careers Expo on Friday, 31 January, providing students with an invaluable opportunity to explore future career paths and engage with top employers in the industry.

With 20 leading employers in attendance, the event took place in the Dalhousie Building Foyer from 10:00 to 15:00, offering students insights into a wide range of career opportunities, from summer internships to graduate positions. A highlight of the day was the Q&A panel session at 12:00, where students had the chance to hear directly from industry professionals about career pathways, job market trends, and essential skills for success.

During the panel session, employers shared key insights with students, including:

Making the Most of University

Employers emphasised the importance of getting involved in societies and extracurricular activities alongside studies. These experiences help students develop transferable skills and make their CVs stand out. Applying for summer internships was also highly recommended as a way to gain industry experience.

Postgraduate Study and Career Progression 

While not always necessary, a postgraduate degree can be valuable for career advancement, particularly for those looking to move into areas such as management, finance, and business. Employers encouraged students to consider further study based on their long-term goals.

Authenticity in Job Applications 

When applying for roles, students were advised to be their authentic selves and avoid copying generic answers from the internet or using AI-generated responses. Employers stressed the importance of writing in their own words and tailoring applications to each opportunity.

The Power of Networking 

Building industry connections was highlighted as a crucial step in career development. Employers encouraged students to attend events, engage with professionals, and use platforms such as LinkedIn to expand their networks and access new opportunities.

The Importance of Soft Skills

In addition to technical expertise, communication, teamwork, and adaptability were identified as key qualities employers look for. Being able to problem-solve and demonstrate a willingness to learn can set candidates apart in a competitive job market.

Companies such as Teknek, Optimove, SSE, LifeScan, Balfour Beatty, the Royal Navy, and many more exhibited at the event, reinforcing the university’s commitment to bridging the gap between education and employment.

Dr Jan Bernd Vorstius (Director of External Experiences and Employability) commented: 

“Today’s SSEN Careers EXPO was a great success! Companies were impressed by the skills and professionalism our students showed. Students were excited by the breadth of available opportunities, from placements to launching their careers. Based on this success, we’re looking forward to growing the event even more in the future.”

The University of Dundee’s Careers Service was also present to provide guidance on CVs, applications, and interview preparation, further highlighting the institution’s dedication to student employability.

This successful event reflects the University of Dundee’s ongoing efforts to connect students with industry leaders and equip them with the tools needed to thrive in their future careers.

See a full list of courses for those considering postgraduate studies in September 2025.

Visit the University of Dundee's Careers Service website for support with employability skills or job searching as well as guidance and resources.