Associate Scientist Review

My activities change daily, however they will typically involve running laboratory experiments, be that calibration work, explosive screening of compounds, running through calorimetry on process and more, and analysing these runs using advanced software. With many working from home, I will often have virtual meetings with team members and other chemists to discuss the projects.

I have continually developed my chemistry knowledge through both my job role and my apprenticeship. Before working at AstraZeneca I had never used any proper laboratory equipment so I have developed my skills on all the different instruments, to the point where I am the most familiar with some of them in my team and as such am instrument owner.

I really enjoy the work I do, the team I am in are always happy to help with anything I am unsure of and that goes for the company as a whole as there is a very collaborative culture. It surpassed my expectations in terms of the quality of work I was given and the responsibilities I have.

My programme was very well structured, with a clear induction period to get settled into the role before my university studies began. Since I completed a foundation degree apprenticeship and went on to top it up to a BSC, the transition was seamless and easy. I had a delegated mentor within my team to help me out at the start of the apprenticeship, and now that I am settled I just work with whoever the task dictates.

I have regular meeting with my manager to ensure everything is going well, and he is always happy for a chat if I need any extra support. I have a dedicated mentor who I can go to with any issues, however anyone in the team, or the department as a whole, is always happy to support.

There is a clear structure to the apprenticeship, with lectures, tutorials and webinars rolled out throughout the year, some live meetings and some pre-recorded. Tutors will get back to any queries via email or a call if needed, usually relatively quickly. More live webinars would be helpful to ask questions then and there, however they are happy to answer questions be email, it is just harder to get the question across.

My university studies help me with chemical knowledge, however many of the modules are not directly relevant to my role, although it will be good to have a broader range of knowledge if I ever move roles. I have been able to apply some of the theory learnt into practice in my role and work based projects for university allow me to contribute to my team whilst providing work for university, this is where the two come together nicely.

Whilst it is more difficult through Covid and lockdown, there are department wide events held several times a year to promote collaboration. There are volunteering away days in the department. There is a gym on site and an astro field where work teams can play football and there are other teams to get involved in that get together outside of work.

Yes

One of the key values AstraZeneca strives to is to be a 'great place to work' and you really feel that in how people approach their day-to-day work. Everyone is happy to be collaborative, to help someone out even if they are from a completely different role, there is a very good culture around the company.

Have a look into the background of AstraZeneca to show a keen interest, including the key values and how you can show you support them, some of the key drugs on the market. If possible, work experience in a pharmaceutical company is helpful but not a necessity, it is good to show you have an interest in the area prior to application.