Computational Chemistry Apprentice Review

In my role as a computational chemistry apprentice working within the Oncology Chemistry department at AstraZeneca, I have a varied set of tasks and responsibilities that I carry out everyday. My main role is supporting Oncology project(s) with computational chemistry work, such as modelling of proposed compound ideas, running ML/AI based algorithms to suggest new compound ideas, and generating property predictions/ running calculations. I also help with the development of new computational workflows and methods.

During my apprenticeship so far, I have been able to learn and develop many skills both technical and soft-skills. I have been lucky enough to work both in and out of the lab during my apprenticeship placements/ rotations, and so have gained skills in analytical chemistry; purification, NMR and computational chemistry; structure-based as well as AI/ML. Furthermore, I have developed my soft/personal skills alongside this; communication and presentations in project meetings, leadership during apprentice events as well as time-keeping/ prioritisation skills.

So far, I have really enjoyed my apprenticeship programme, and would not wish to have changed any of it! - I have really loved learning so many different skills and techniques, and getting to network within such a diverse workplace. Sometimes the balance of work and study can be a little tricky, but it is all worth it I think for the great experience, and impactful work that we are able to do.

I think my programme is pretty well structured - we are all very different as apprentices across the business, and so will have very different programmes based on the area and team that we work in. Mine has suited me really well - I was able to try out a few different areas within the department, and have settled in the one I enjoyed the most!

I think I receive just the right amount of support from my employer - my line managers across my programme have been great, and have always ensured I have what I need to succeed; study time, mentors, training etc. Alongside that, they also allow me to be responsible for my own success - I have to communicate with them if something is not quite right/ I need help, and reach out for different opportunities, which I think is good to ensure I am proactive, and developing my own career. The more general/ overall support for apprentices across the company is also good - we have many group events, committees and employee support groups to get everyone involved.

The support received from our training provider is good - it could sometimes be a little better, but they have taken on lots of feedback recently and lots has improved! The apprenticeship advisors from the training provider that support us during our programme are very good, and really supportive/ helpful. The academic contacts are also good, and I think do well with providing us with support across the distance learning which can often be difficult. The drop in support often comes from the more general communications - sometimes I feel they can be a little sparse, especially when it comes to important updates such as exam or progress report updates, although they have improved greatly during my time on the apprenticeship programme.

I think the applicability of my qualification to my day-to-day role goes up and down across the programme! Sometimes, the two will align very well, and I can apply my learnings to my job. Other times, the two could not be any further apart! Although, I think that will always be the case studying a more general Chemistry degree, whilst working in a niche area of the pharmaceutical industry! On the whole, it has suited my job well, and has been good to learn a broad range of chemistry topics.

We have lots of extra curricular events to get involved with at work! There are groups just for apprentices, or those that include the whole of early careers that will plan social and networking events for all to get involved in. Alongside this, there are many sports teams/ fitness initiatives, as well as journal clubs and professional networking events. I think there is just a really friendly atmosphere at work, where you can chat and make friends with anyone, and get involved!

Yes

I would definitely recommend AstraZeneca to a friend - I think it is a great place to work and really enjoy my role here and the impact that I am able to have everyday. I am always on the look out for jobs that my friends and family can apply for so they can join!

I would advise anyone looking to apply for a role at AstraZeneca to go for it! My main tips for the application would be to research the company and the role, and ensure it is right for you, and then be confident! My overall impressions have always been that they are not after the most perfect in the room, but the one most willing to learn.