Laboratory Scientist Review

I work in the Antibody development and protein engineering department which involves the development of biologics as a therapeutic for patients. My roles vary on a day to day basis however they are mainly lab based including developing assays to test biologics, using automation machinery, high throughput screening of potential drug candidates and routine QC of laboratory machinery. I also deliver my results to project teams in team meetings and run my own project as part of the degree apprenticeship course.

Doing the apprenticeship has enabled me to develop existing skills such as communication, teamwork and presentation skills. I have also learnt a huge range of lab skills that enable me to work efficiently and independently in the lab. Through my apprenticeship I have had the opportunity to use new cutting edge lab automation and machinery providing endless opportunities for development.

The apprenticeship programme has enabled me to gain huge amount of experience in industry and develop a range of laboratory skills. The variety of day to day tasks I carry out and projects I work on make working at AstraZeneca interesting and rewarding. I am given 1 day a week to carry out my university work provided by the University of Kent and enables me to practice what I have learnt in my work at AstraZeneca.

AstraZeneca are extremely supportive of the apprenticeship programme and provide great opportunities for development. Apprentices are given lots of responsibilities and valued alongside other members of the team as equal. There are lots of training opportunities at AstraZeneca to learn and develop your skills in a variety of business areas.

My apprenticeship is delivered through an online system whereby each week is categorised with clear objectives and assignments to be completed weekly. Exams are conducted in the work place under exam conditions 3 times a year. I have quarterly reviews with my Apprenticeship provider, university of Kent to track my progress and Mentors are online to answer any questions I have as I work through the course.

Quarterly meetings are held with my training provider to assign modules and track progress for upcoming exams and course work submission. Outside of the face-face meetings there is an online forum to post questions about the course material and each module is given an Academic professor responsible for answering questions about course material.

I receive a huge amount of support in the workplace from my manager, team members, higher management and other apprentices within the business. There is a hugely collaborative and helpful ethos at AstraZeneca and many people are on hand to give advice and encouragement. There is always someone in the company that has been able to help me when needed for assignments or course material.

The salary is good if you have reasonable rent and budget extra spending and daily costs. Whilst living in a high rent area such as Cambridge the salary covers costs and the running of a car for commuting. However, the salary still enables me to rent accommodation and attend social events.

AstraZeneca run lots of charity and volunteering programmes which benefit the local community which you can get involved with. There are also lots of STEM opportunities which apprentices are encouraged to take part in to teach the younger generation about science. Social activities are also run through different clubs as well as monthly apprentice socials.

Yes

AstraZeneca is a great company to work for as they provide development and training opportunities for all employees to develop their skills. There are lots of great people who are passionate about science and getting medicines to patients and keen to help each other. There are endless opportunities to get involved in.

When in an interview relax and stay calm, remember to just be yourself and answer the questions to the best of your knowledge. The interview process is about getting to know you as a person as well as asking questions. Research about the company before going to an interview and don't be afraid to ask questions for your understanding.