Oncology Scientific Apprentice Review

by AstraZeneca

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

9.8/10

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

I work in Translational Genomics. I use clinical samples to analyse DNA and RNA in order to understand the biology of the cancer and mechanisms of response or resistance. I also work on capability development, meaning I can use new instruments and techniques within the genomics lab

10/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

I have learnt lots of new skills. I have learnt how to use a range of equipment within the lab, and how to perform a range of genomic techniques. I have also learnt how to analyse and present data. I have also developed soft skills such as resilience and confidence

10/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I really enjoy my programme. No two days are the same and it is really interesting to look into genomic data from clinical samples. It is exciting being able to test out new techniques and equipment and work on optimising our existing processes

10/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

My programme is structured very well. I am at work 80% and have 20% off the job time for my university work. In my case this is taken as one day a week for studying.

10/10

5. How much support do you receive from your employer?

I recieve a lot of support from my employer. I have regular catchups with my manager and know I can reach out at any time if I am struggling or have questions. The team is very supportive and everyone is willing to help me learn.

10/10

6. How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

I feel a good amount of support from the training provider. I have a really great apprenticeship advisor who I meet with every 8 weeks to discuss my progress, but I can reach out whenever if I need support. The support from lecturers could be slightly improved with virtual calls

8/10

7. How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

I find the qualifications I am working towards is very beneficial for my role. It helps me to learn the basic theory behind the processes that I use, meaning I have a better understanding of what I am doing and data I am generating. It helps me understand wider business

10/10

8. Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)

There are regular professional networking events, and there is a great social apprentice community. We hold regular social events which allows us to meet apprentices in different roles and different sites. There are exercise and active challenges throughout the year to encourage us to get moving

10/10

9a. Would you recommend AstraZeneca to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

I would recommend AZ to a friend. There is a great community at the company and everyone is so supportive and always wants to help. There are so many different opportunities for personal development, career development and building networks

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to AstraZeneca?

I would advise to look into the AZ values, and ensure they align to your own values. Everything we do at AZ is around these values so it is essential they resonate with you! Be yourself and remember why you want the job!