Laboratory Scientist Review

Analyse stability study samples using a wide variety of analytical techniques (NMR, HPLC, KF, Dissolution, XRPD etc), carry out release testing to ensure the amount of active pharmaceutical ingredient present matches the dosage assigned to the drug product. Support analysis as part of a wider team, deliver data to project teams and monitor drug substances/products in stability chambers.

Huge variety of training on the numerous analytical instruments used in my team, as well as the software used to control them and process the resulting data. Received training on the wider context of my activities so I understand how the data I produce goes to helping new drug submissions to regulatory authorities. Support from team members and trainers is readily available, my confidence in my abilities has grown exponentially.

I feel I have greatly developed both personally and professionally, the working environment is genuinely supportive and encourages growth both personally, academically and in a work environment. My team is happy to support me whenever I ask, and I feel a valued member of the team who have welcomed me into my role. Uni work sometimes feels too much, and communication could be better, but the overall experience with my job and Uni combined has been positive.

From the Uni's perspective the course is structured well; sometimes the weekly work seems like a bit much to complete in one week but admittedly this is a course designed to fit a full BSc degree around working full time within 4 years. The company's induction was very structured and not too intense, with basic training and lab safety spread out over 2 weeks so apprentices could settle into their teams without "information overload".

My manager honours the 20% time allowed per week for Uni work - and if there is a busy time in the team and I am asked to work that day then I can "save up" that study day and use it in subsequent weeks. If I was struggling to keep up with work, I am confident that I could speak to someone and be supported in a way that let me catch up. We are asked for regular feedback on the Uni course, which AstraZeneca collates and discusses with MMU in order to ensure we are receiving the best possible learning experience. I feel that AZ genuinely are in my corner when it comes to Uni being the best it can be.

The support of tutors in the form of webinars is great, and they reply to emails (usually) very quickly. The work we have set weekly can be daunting sometimes if two units are run at once, especially if you feel you do not understand a topic - the quantity of lectures and tutorials (I feel) is not doable within the 20% a week allotted. This is a 4 year Bsc around a full-time job, and so I understand the pace is necessarily high, but I feel that two units running side by side along with separate projects is intense and causes stress sometimes.

I feel that when I recognise Uni subjects within the working environment (and see their context), it cements that learning for me. I hugely believe that understanding WHY you are being taught something, and HOW it is useful in 'real life' makes something much easier to learn, and increases my enjoyment of that topic.

Apprentices are encouraged to volunteer for careers events and apprenticeship fairs, and are provided with company materials and funding to do so. Team socials are regular and varied - and help a new apprentice feel comfortable within a team. Networking is encouraged, and regular 'Science days' provide snapshots of interesting projects and discoveries throughout the whole company - an opportunity to meet people you otherwise wouldn't in your day to day role.

Yes

I feel supported and encouraged to grow, my role is varied and interesting, my team is great to work with, I have clear personal and professional goals, and I get to work while learning. The environment is a positive one, people treat apprentices with respect and value them as members of the team.

Have a passion for Science, be friendly but not overbearing in the interview process - think about why you want to work for them and tell them this while interviewing (don't be afraid to tell them concerns too). Be honest and ask lots of questions, for your benefit as well as theirs.