Chemistry Apprentice Review

I have recently moved from a rotation in analytical chemistry - where my role included preparing and running samples for NMR, choosing the correct experiments to run, analysing the data to solve structural elucidation/ stereochemistry determination problems. This included interacting with the chemists requesting the analysis. qNMR purity assessments were also part of my job role. I am now starting a computational chemistry rotation in which I am currently helping to set up interactive data pages for all projects and using programming to customise these.

Skills I have learnt include: -Time management and prioritisation skills from balancing analysis requests with meetings and prioritising the most critical work. Also balancing work and study. -Communication skills - constant communication with colleagues due to the collaborative aspects of work. Also when asking questions/ talking with y supervisor and learning new things. - Developing my independence at work - having my own responsibilities and jobs to do.

I really enjoy the programme I am on - I am lucky to have a rotation based apprenticeship through areas of the chemistry department and so get to experience many areas of the workplace and pick up a broad range of skills. I find this a great way for me to learn and be exposed to more of the pharma industry before settling on a career. It also allows me to understand more about what I do, how/ why it is done and the effects it has. I also enjoy the university side of work, although very much prefer being at work and doing my job.

My programme is quite well organised - we have structure with our modules, deadlines, reviews and exams and have academics assigned to our courses to answer questions etc if we have them. I think my workplace leaning/ structure is very organised and feel I have good support/ am given enough work to do and independence without feeling lost.

I think I receive good amount of support from my employer - I have a good team/support structure - my line manager, my supervisor, work colleagues. We also have a good early career/ apprentice network which is there for support/ communication/ enrichment events etc. As well as having HR/ talent acquisition colleagues dedicated to working with apprentices/ with the uni etc to ensue everything runs well.

Support received from training provider is ok - we have reviews every few months and can email/ call our apprenticeship advisors from the uni if we have questions etc. Although it is always slightly more difficult due to the fact that we are distance learners eg always a slight delay in responses.

My qualification doesn't always completely align with the work I am currently doing in my workplace however, in general it helps with my understanding of chemistry and how that feeds in the pharma/ drug R & D industry/ process. It also helps me build up my knowledge of basics and understanding of fundamentals that lead into the higher level work in my workplace.

We have an early careers network that includes apprentices/ grad students/ interns/ placement students/ post docs etc. that organise social and enrichment events regularly and act as a communication platform for us all. Events are always really fun and allow those over all work locations to come together. We also regularly have networking days across the department, and these are held off site at interesting locations, that allow cross-functional networking and allows you an insight into other areas of the business. These always include presentations as well as networking fun activities.

Yes

They are a great company to work for and have a good apprenticeship scheme. They value and look after their apprentices and I feel like I have a place at work and am given good support in my workplace. They also have a great network of apprentices and provide a good balance of beneficial workplace learning and independence in your job.

Go for it! Also - have an interest in pharma, research a little about the company and industry first and ensure it is something you would like to do. Come in with an open mind and be ready to learn lots and have a steep learning curve at the beginning! But also don't worry - the apprenticeship is really enjoyable and AZ has a nice work community.