Apprentice R&D Oncology Review

50% of my time is spent in the laboratory doing bespoke assays to problem solve/answer specific questions. The remaining 50% of my time is doing data analysis and presenting data.

I have learned many new skills including using/fixing/troubleshooting HPLC-MS, liquid handling robots, and a variety of assays (intrinsic clearance, enzyme kinetics, protein binding, metabolite identification, etc). I have also been given the opportunity to develop my presentation skills (oral and written) and lead team meetings/events.

I love my role and what I do. The work itself is engaging and I get to help patients. I feel incredibly lucky that I get to do the work that I do!

My programme is well organised/structured. The work experience offered by my employer is incredibly organised and it also allows me to explore areas of science I find particularly engaging.

I receive an incredible amount of support from my employer. I have two mentors in the different scientific areas in my department, but my entire team is more than happy to help with questions. Members of other departments are incredibly helpful when I am struggling with a university assignments.

My training provider is less supportive than my employer. However, any shortcomings I have found with my training provider have been overcome through the support of my employer.

In my initial two years, I felt that the qualification did not, necessarily, apply to my role. However, the third year has been more applicable and allowed me to apply what I'm learning to my role in the laboratory.

We have an early career network that organises social activities and career development opportunities. In addition, we have social activities organised by the apprentices and within my department. I am a member of a rugby team that is associated with my organisation. We have professional networking events 3 times a year.

Yes

The work in engaging and helping patients is fantastic. The support I receive from my team sets AstraZeneca apart as an employer. I am allowed to pursue areas of science that I find particularly engaging and my team members go above-and-beyond by helping me with my assignments for university.

I would encourage all who are interested to apply because it is an amazing opportunity. I think, as well, enthusiasm for the science and what we do is the most important thing when teams are hiring.