Technician scientist Review

On a day to day basis I exercise a variety of different molecular biology techniques. For example some of these techniques include gel electrophoresis, transformations, cloning, PCR and RT-qPCR. I also do cell based assays which involve transfecting different cell lines and maintaining the cells. I am responsible for keeping up to date with my uni work as well as responsible for ensuring all work performed at the workplace is efficient and in line with my goals.

I have developed my skills throughout the apprenticeship. I am continually learning and developing my practical skills in the lab. I particularly develop when I work with other people as it allows me to learn how other people work. I have also developed my communication and presentation skills , which consequently has improved my confidence.

I enjoy working in my team as I feel apart of the team and a valuable asset to have. I enjoy being able to plan my own work to fit with my goals as well as have one day a week to focus on university based work; this allows a balanced work schedule. I have enjoyed meeting new people that all have different experience but can work together as a team.

The program is well structured and there is a defined work-uni balance the program desires you to have. There is plenty of inductions and training at the beginning which helps elaborate on your programme. However, there could be trainings in year 2 and year 3 which help you develop certain skills or help prepare you for future endeavours.

I receive a lot of support from my manager, who constantly checks in to make sure work is going well and that I am okay. My manager is there for me if I have any issues; very easy to talk to. I would say support from mentor is less available than from my manager but still available. I can easily access guidance from apprenticeship leaders at AZ, such as [This section of the comment has been removed by a member of the RateMyApprenticeship Team because it did not meet our site terms and conditions] and [This section of the comment has been removed by a member of the RateMyApprenticeship Team because it did not meet our site terms and conditions], if I ever have any issues regarding my apprenticeship. Also, support is easily accessible from my employer, cogent skills. I can email [This section of the comment has been removed by a member of the RateMyApprenticeship Team because it did not meet our site terms and conditions] about anything regarding my job whenever; always offering support or guidance.

I feel like support is accessible with the uni of Kent, however I feel like their communication could improve. I also think study guide on Moodle could be easier to follow. The text can sometimes be very long winded for what the actual point is. I also think they should perhaps consider pre-recorded lectures for certain topics. It is quite difficult to teach yourself sometimes, so with that guidance I believe it could be easier.

The majority of my qualification does cross over with some of my work I have been performing in my role. The workplace assignments definitely help relate my workplace with aspects of the weeks learning which helps me learn about my workplace in more detail. The theory I learn can definitely be applied to my day to day role, especially the molecular biology aspect of it.

There is always extra-curricular activities to get involved in and they range from simple networking events to social activities. There is a variety of clubs to get involved in and workshops which run through the AZinspire platform.This is a good way to learn new things and network with new people.

Yes

Working at a big pharmaceutical industry like AstraZeneca allows you open invitations to many different opportunities, such as certain expertise or self development opportunities, to help you learn and develop. The atmospheres is professional but there is also room for relaxation. Everyone is friendly and easy to get along with.

The biggest cliché but the best advice is to be yourself. The company is hiring you for being you and not just your qualifications. When applying, be honest in your answers, so you don't get caught out in the interview process. Another piece of advice is to make sure when going into the interviews you are comfortable in your knowledge about AstraZeneca as questions may be asked.