Research & development microbiologist Review

by AstraZeneca

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

7.8/10

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

Managing/over-seeing the microbiological attributes of multiple drug development projects, from discovery through development and to market application. Inputting into the manufacturing process to ensure microbiological safety of the product, reviewing all relevant GMP documentation. Conducting developmental studies in the lab to gather product data. Liaising with contract manufacturing organisations.

8/10

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

Studying MSc to further my academic skillset. Attended multiple internal and external training courses and conferences around microbiological skills and troubleshooting. Internal training platform to develop skillset. Communication skills developed, but mostly developed scientific skillset, such as drug development knowledge, drug manufacture knowledge, and scientific writing (protocols, reports, articles, etc)

8/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

Team are fantastic, and manager is great and very supportive. Company culture is very good. Fantastic to have the opportunity to further my academic skillset alongside work. Distance learning is very difficult and time management is tricky. Overall enjoy having the opportunity to study alongside professional work.

7/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

Distance learning is difficult, support is there from the university but could be better. Induction, intro to course etc could be much better. An assigned student mentor to check-in with would be good. Course content is far too much for the amount of time assigned to complete it.

5/10

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

Couldn't ask for more support from employer. Above and beyond. Incredibly understanding and supportive whenever I raise any concerns. Very flexible with study days, allowing restructure of work to facilitate study. Only gap is that employer isn't always aware of just how much work there is to juggle at times

9/10

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

Support is ok but could be better. I have an assigned tutor and a non-technical / non-course specific supporter. A better introduction/induction and explanation of support systems and individuals that are in place would be good, to aid the distance learning

6/10

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

I have not yet completed my study and yet I already have a thoroughly improved understanding of the pharmaceutical development process, which subsequently allows me to perform my role better by being able to better understand when my input is most value adding and how my expertise can be of most use.

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.)

Yes, AstraZeneca have a wide range of events that encompass a wide range of interests, invites of which are sent out via email or through the company social page.

9/10

9a. Would you recommend AstraZeneca to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

High job satisfaction to work for such a prestigious company that is improving the lives of patients globally. Great company culture. Many perks and benefits to working at AZ, health schemes etc. Great internal support. Great opportunities to build network and work nationally or globally. Great development opportunities

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

If your own personal values share the values of the company and you are passionate about the company direction and working to improve patients' quality of life, then your efforts will be recognised, your talent will be nurtured and your potential will be maximised.