Technician Scientist Apprentice Review

I'm a part of the R&D Early Oncology In Vivo team, which means I do lab based work running assays and other experiments, as well as doing animal work (such as animal husbandry, carrying out procedures etc).

All of my in vivo skills have been learnt (handling mice, procedures, husbandry). I learnt how to do a reporter assay last year and continued building on my cell culture skills.

I really enjoy the lab work and working with the animals but I do find some of the desk work to be tedious and/or boring. I also enjoy working with most of my colleagues as they are supportive and always happy to help when needed. However, there are one or two people in my team that want me to do more work than I can do because of uni work and other responsibilities.

My lab training and in vivo training is based on 'as and when' I am needed (due to COVID-19). I have regular meetings with line manager and attend regular team meetings. I block out 20% of my time during the week to complete university work, however, some of the university modules are not well organised.

My line manager is very supportive and checks in with me regularly to ensure I am happy and have enough work to be doing/not overwhelmed. I also have support from the wider early oncology team (other apprentices, team leaders, colleagues) who are always happy to point me in the right direction or answer my questions.

My apprenticeship advisor (from Uni of Kent) is very supportive, however, she can be very slow to reply to emails at times. The lecturers are happy to answer questions either on Moodle or via email, as well as offering to set up calls if needed. I received tutoring from an AZ colleague for the chemistry module as the lecturer wasn't very clear on the topics being covered.

The most recent module (Human physiology and diseases) is very relevant to my role and I can use my knowledge from it in the workplace. However, other modules (such as organic chemistry) cannot be directly applicated to my job role.

AZInspire set up lots of social events for anyone from across the company who wants to join. There are also lots of social events around the Christmas period and sometimes there are team lunches (pre-COVID). Some colleagues also set up quick coffee meetings.

Yes

It's a friendly environment to work in and the work that takes place is really interesting! I feel well supported and get on well with the people I work with.

Show lots of passion and just be yourself. Everyone is very friendly and they all want you to succeed! Also, taking opportunities to visit AZ stands at career fairs and finding information on the company is a good idea.