My name is Siang Tan, and I recently completed my degree in Biochemistry at Imperial College London. As part of my final year project, I particularly enjoyed designing a machine learning model to enhance the inherently low capabilities of bacteria to secrete a plastic-degrading substance. While I found the intellectual rigour of scientific research incredibly rewarding, I soon realised that it did not align with my long-term career ambitions. Through various insight and vacation schemes, I came to appreciate that the skills cultivated during my degree were eminently transferable to a career in law.
What inspired you to apply for the trainee solicitor programme at Goodwin?
As a biochemist, I was drawn to the unique opportunities Goodwin offers to work with a diverse clientele, ranging from innovative start-ups to global multinationals. The firm’s ability to represent clients at each transactional stage of their corporate lifecycle is especially appealing, as it closely parallels the intricate processes involved in drug development. I am excited by the prospect of more novel drugs being released from start-ups, though the pipeline for a new drug to undergo each phase of a clinical trial can require up to £20 million – an immense challenge for smaller companies lacking capital. Goodwin’s commitment to working with and nurturing smaller and mid-market biotech corporations certainly attracted me to the firm.
I looked for a firm with a distinguished reputation in life sciences, and Goodwin’s strategic focus on emulating global trends in fundraising compelled me. This forward-thinking approach is evident by the firm’s first-of-its-kind PropSci Practice, which uniquely intersects the Life Sciences and Real Estate departments. Moreover, Goodwin offers a working environment where I believe I can truly excel as a lawyer.
What has been the single most important thing you learnt so far in your journey in law?
Throughout the vacation scheme, I presented a plethora of questions to both my supervisor and trainee buddy. While I was initially apprehensive that I might be burdensome having not yet studied the law, it was refreshing to learn that these discussions were mutually beneficial. This taught me that asking thoughtful questions is essential to learning and contributes positively to one’s learning environment.
What do you find most interesting about the legal sector/Goodwin?
The pandemic has significantly heightened the focus on pharmaceuticals and drug development in the world of private equity and venture capital. Investors have identified considerable opportunities in the healthcare sector. During the synthetic biology module of my final year, I worked within a team to engineer a novel CRISPR-Cas9 technology designed to record molecular events in cancer cells, with the aim of tracking cancer evolution sequentially. I find it exciting to observe how such research projects can evolve into innovative startups and ultimately grow into global enterprises, as seen with Moderna. Through discussion and shadowing my supervisor, I gained a clear understanding of the fast-paced nature of work and the unique challenges each client presents. I am eager to tackle complex technical problems and collaborate with such clients in this rapidly growing space.
What is the culture of Goodwin like?
During the vacation scheme, it quickly became clear that Goodwin’s remarkable growth and success in London are largely attributable to its entrepreneurial and collaborative culture. Although I was seated in the Technology and Life Sciences department, I was able to arrange coffee chats with trainees and associates in other teams. From informal conversations with partners in the kitchen to engaging in formal departmental workshops, everyone made a genuine effort to get to know me and my background which was truly memorable.
How did you find your vacation scheme experience?
The vacation scheme was incredibly well-designed with a right balance between departmental workshops, time spent in our specific departments, and the assessments as part of the scheme. The substantial time spent within our respective departments allowed us to fully integrate into the dynamic of how a team at Goodwin operates. It also offered valuable insight into the hands-on approach adopted by trainees. I sought to implement this by proactively taking on tasks from associates across different teams within my department, which deepened my understanding of equity capital markets within the life sciences sector.
Similarly, I enjoyed collaborating with fellow vacation scheme students who brought a wealth of diverse backgrounds and experiences – truly reflective of Goodwin’s diverse and inclusive culture.