Clinical Trial Specialist Review

My role currently involves gaining an overall understanding of clinical trials and the drug development process. I was placed on a study and have taken on some CSA activities as well as shadowing functional team members and assisting the team where needed. So far I have shadowed Data Management and calls between SMAs and Local Study Managers (Spain and Japan), with a view to move to Supply Chain/IWRS soon. My day to day tasks include: compiling information for the study newsletter and distributing it to LSMs and site staff, sending weekly recruitment figures, sending a weekly data management update, adding/removing team members from relevant channels for study etc.

I have developed a further understanding of familiar programmes such as Microsoft excel, Outlook, Skype etc. AZ offer the chance to book short Skype courses in these areas through their IT training system which is really useful and allows you to increase your knowledge/understanding of different programmes. I have also become more familiar with systems that were completely new to me such as the AZ eTMF Veeva Vault, pulling reports from Bracket and also the use of the system RAVE. Being an apprentice has also allowed me to develop my communication skills for example, through regular conference calls, emails, as well as the chance to present a short presentation to my team. Being exposed to different functions one by one has also allowed me to progress at a nice pace and I feel has helped increase my confidence as well as understanding of the different aspects of my role.

I really enjoy my programme. It is really nice to have the balance of working and studying as the practical element puts the theory learned in my degree in to context. I work as part of a really supportive and social team which makes the working day enjoyable and colleagues have always been willing to help me learn new things wherever they can.

As my apprenticeship progresses it is starting to become more structured and I have a good idea of what I am aiming to achieve within the first two years. It did take a little but this is a new apprenticeship so I feel that it is understandable.

My employer is extremely supportive. Both my line management and the company as a whole. For example, throughout the Covid-19 outbreak, apprentices have been sent a survey to check we are ok as well as regular emails to ensure all is well.

I feel I receive a good level of support from my training provider. This has differed between modules but generally, replies to emails are prompt and tutors are happy to answer questions wherever they are able (this can sometimes be vague but this is so they don't offer unfair advantages to individual students). Meetings are scheduled with an apprentice adviser around every 3 months to see how each apprentice is getting on and I feel this is a good frequency.

My qualification allows me to better understand the science behind my role. This isn't something that is always used in every day work but is really important to understand the industry and the role of other members within the study. I believe as my degree progresses it will become increasingly relevant to my role.

There are lots of things you are able to get involved in. This can vary between sites but my team are really great at organising social events and volunteering days etc.

Yes

My experience at AstraZeneca has been really positive so far. There is a nice working environment/company culture and great support available. There are also lots of learning opportunities available and you can get involved in things outside of your role to increase your knowledge. For example, AZ have an Oncology Forum that hosts seminars that employees can watch on Workplace. For these reasons, I would recommend AZ.

Don't doubt your abilities, be yourself and show how passionate you are about the role. Try and find out lots about the industry/the role you are applying for as this will really help. Think about answers to common interview questions beforehand but leave room for answers that come to you on the spot!