Laboratory Scientist Technician Review

My role as an analytical and material science apprentice in Early Chemical Development involves routine analytical procedures and also strategic input in method developments. My skill set includes NMR spectroscopy, LC chromatography, FTIR spectroscopy, water content analysis (KF), particle size distribution analysis (including SEM imaging) and thermal analysis (DSC and TGA).

All of the practical skills that I use on a daily basis have been developed here at AstraZeneca. Although I learnt about a lot of the theory behind analytical chemistry and analytical techniques during my A level Chemistry course, this knowledge has been built upon and put into practice with regular training sessions and assessments.

I enjoy my apprenticeship programme a lot as it allows me to gain valuable experience in the pharmaceutical industry whilst continue to study chemistry (and become qualified in this field). I have enjoyed being able to see chemistry in action on a large scale in this industry, and work in a diverse company.

During the first couple of months of my apprenticeship, I found it slightly overwhelming receiving so much practical training for several different techniques. I didn't feel that this training was very organised as I was not really able to perform these techniques until the end of all of my training, by which point I had forgotten useful information. I feel it would have been better to be trained on one technique at a time.

My employer is very supportive. He is respectful of the 20% study time that I am allowed each week and regularly asks about updates from the University of Kent and how my university assignments are going. Monthly 1:1 meetings are opportunities for me to express any concerns or highlight any areas where I feel I could progress more.

For the most part I found the University of Kent (admin advisers, apprenticeship leaders and academics) to be supportive. At times, distance learning has been a little challenging but any questions that I have are quickly addressed either via email or even phone call. With regards to exam support, it would've been better to have more revision material and advice form the university.

One of the modules that I have studied in this first year of my qualification in Chemical Sciences was focused on analytical chemistry. This has aided my understanding of techniques and data processing. It has also helped to see how this field of chemistry is applied in the pharmaceutical industry.

Although I do not personally participate in any sports team here at AstraZeneca, I am aware that there are opportunities to get involved. As a team, we regularly have Team Culture Events which are great opportunities to get to know others and work along with each other in activities outside of work.

Yes

AstraZeneca really is a great place to work! It is global, innovative company driven by cutting-edge science. The company values create a positive culture amongst staff. The site here in Macclesfield is very modern and well looked after. The opportunities of work within AstraZeneca are endless - I know many people who have worked in many different functions within the company.

Take advantage of any opportunities presented to you outside of a classroom (whether it be academic events, work experience or other activities that show your interests, these are useful to have on a CV as it demonstrates to a potential employer that you have to more to show than just your grades!)