Laboratory Scientist Degree Apprentice Review

I am a structural science degree apprentice within the product development department and I focus on understanding the particle properties of a material and how differences in size and shape of particles can affect the chemical properties. My day to day role involves performing morphology screens on different materials to determine whether a material can exist in more than one form.

AstraZeneca is the perfect place to develop new skills. I joined AstraZeneca straight from finishing my a-levels and so my understanding on laboratory techniques was restricted.. My apprenticeship gives me lots of opportunities to develop both lab and workplace skills. Most importantly, the company gives you the confidence to develop in any areas you struggle with

As someone who didn't want to go down the normal route of going to university, my apprenticeship at AstraZeneca continues to surprise me in positive ways. I have always enjoyed science and therefore getting this apprenticeship, where there is an equal balance of lab and office work, I couldn't think of anywhere better to be working.

AstraZeneca is always very flexible as an employer. I have a weekly study day to complete my university studies but this day is very easily moved or rescheduled as required. My experience with MMU has been very positive and I engage in progress reviews with the university 3 times a year.

I work very closely with my mentor, who is happy to help in any sort of situation. AstraZeneca as an employer is extremely good with support. I have regular meetings with both my mentor and manager whereby i am able to discuss any areas of concern or for any support that i may require.

As a distant learner, i find it quite hard to study and to keep up with the materials. It sometimes feels as though i have to teach myself and at times can be difficult to ask for help from my lecturers. I feel as though the support i receive from my training provider is dependent on which unit i am studying at the time.

In many cases, my qualification doesn't directly align to my role. However, because my role is quite specific, it would be hard to ensure this. On the other hand, some of the units that are not chemistry based are extremely helpful in developing my understanding in other aspects of the workplace.

I only experienced 6 months at AstraZeneca before COVID19 took over. However, within these 6 months i attended several extra curricular events at work. One of these was a volunterring day, where my team went to a day centre in Manchester and redecorated it for them. Additionally, teams also go for a pub lunch on special occasions.

Yes

AstraZeneca has given me the perfect opportunity to develop as an apprentice. I have been able to gain on the job knowledge and experience, whilst studying for a degree that is funded for me. The atmosphere is always friendly and it is a joy to come to work. I enjoy my course, and the course is exactly how it was advertised.

RESEARCH! If you are considering applying for AstraZeneca i would definitely do your research on the company, its products and its values. I found the assessment day extremely long and tiring, and the whole process made me quite nervous. However, the assessment day is a really good chance to show off who you are and why AstraZeneca should choose you. I used this day to make friends with some of the other candidates. The first few days of starting, you will feel completely useless and like you don't know anything! This sorts itself out pretty quickly :)