Technician Scientist Apprentice - NMR Review

My first 6 months at AZ have been spent getting to grips with the basics of solution state and solid state NMR. Discovering how it works, how to interpret data and how important its applications are to various projects in the portfolio. Daily tasks include clearing the open access system for the spectrometers in my lab, changing probes, running samples... Honestly, everyday is different!

I learn new skills everyday! I've learned how to interpret NMR data (which you do some of this in A Level Chemistry), how to change probes on the spectrometer, how to run experiments independently, how to run an MRI scan and many more things. I've already learned a monumental amount and I'm only 6 months in.

I think it's great, honestly. I think the thing that I've probably enjoyed most is the challenge of it all. There's never a dull moment and i'm kept busy but in a really good way - I'm encouraged to contribute to project work and to be a solid member of the team.

I'd say the programme is relatively well structured. I have a mentor at work who works with me most days and he's slowly introducing me to concepts about NMR/MRI in a way that makes logical sense. Alongside this, I have set tasks to complete throughout the year to aid in my development as a competent spectroscopist. My university course is also relatively well structured as the first module was very much interlinked with the chemistry that I had studied at A Level (with some new information tied in) and other modules will build on this knowledge in a way that makes sense. There is coursework to be completed every week and exams associated with the course but I have found so far that, although they can be challenging, it is overall quite logically laid out.

A lot! As a company AZ is really quite happy to help you out if you need it and that's definitely been my experience. As I joined straight from full time education it was undoubtedly a challenge to adjust to working life whilst also maintaining standards for uni work. My manager, mentor and team were all happy to help and I feel like they made a lot of effort to ensure that I felt welcome from the beginning.

In my experience (having just sat two exams as well) they're honestly really very good. As apprentices we're entitled to 20% of our time being dedicated to studying. I personally take this as a study day and, on my exam week, I was able to flex my study days so that I had a few days off to study before my exams. My mentor in particular is super supportive in this respect and always encourages me to discuss my progress and results in relation to uni work.

I'm studying an FdSc in Applied Chemical Sciences as part of a distance learning course with the University of Kent. I feel that the foundation of chemistry knowledge that the course provides is helpful in relation to my role and that the coursework helps me to gain a better understanding of my industry outside of my specific area.

There are a multitude of opportunities to take part in extracurriculars at AZ. There is a football team, a gym on campus, a choir... Whilst I don't personally get involved in any of these activities, the opportunity is always there. I have taken part in Science Day which is happens every three months and provides an opportunity to have a look at what people across PT&D and PharmSci have been up to and to present a poster on what you've been up to. It's a great opportunity to network and learn more.

Yes

AZ is a global pharmaceutical company that puts patients first. The ethos is something that I firmly believe in and the culture of the company provides a brilliant environment to work in. As an employee I feel supported in everything that I do and the opportunities that you gain from working at AZ are amazing.

Just be yourself! Don't be put off by the fact that it may be competitive because if you don't try then you can never succeed. Honestly though, if your values align with the AZ values and this is something you want to do then you have a solid chance of achieving it.