Junior Technician Review

As an apprentice at Charles River I get to rotate between departments every year. Currently I work in the pharmaceutics team where I gather data on solubility, stability and other physical and chemical properties of potential drugs. I then help deliver this data to clients through presentations and reports. I also help with formulation, where we run tests to decide the best way to administer a drug.

I am now trained in maintaining and fixing analytical systems alongside fundamental lab skills. I have significantly developed my presentation skills and will have many more opportunities to throughout my apprenticeship.

I really enjoy the studying and working in my programme. I find the work-life balance good and am able to utilise my weekly study day to finish my university work. The staff are very welcoming and provide many opportunities, which makes the working very enjoyable.

The degree programme is very structured and it is obvious what work needs to be completed each week, we also update a tracker once work is complete to ensure we are on track. The apprenticeship scheme is well organised in terms of yearly rotations but flexible in terms of opportunities and what you want to work on.

I find I receive a lot of support from my mentor and line manager; they ensure to have regular catch ups with me to address any problems or development opportunities. I feel I can ask any question and they will not judge me and they always give good feedback so I know what I am doing well and how I can develop more.

I have quarterly meetings with my apprenticeship advisor to discuss my studies and how I am doing with modules and exams. I find I can address concerns with my advisor and they will follow up quickly, and when I have technical questions the lecturers are always available by phone call or email.

I feel my qualification helps me understand the theory behind my work and it allows me to apply this in a practical sense. It has also helped me understand the whole industry and how what I am doing applies to the wider pharmaceutical industry. There are sections on health and safety which I have been able to apply well.

Social activities are often organised for teams, such as team lunches or team activities. There are opportunities within the apprenticeship team to attend events at local schools to advertise the apprenticeship, such as career fairs, and working with local schools on STEM projects or work experience opportunities.

Yes

I find the culture is very welcoming and it is a nice place to work. Everyone is very helpful and will give you opportunities to learn and develop skills. As said before the work-life balance is good and I don't find my studying taking up my free time.

Research the company so you understand how your role will fit into not only the work we do in Early Discovery in the UK, but also in the US getting drugs to market.