Associate Scientist Review

by AstraZeneca

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

8/10

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

A varied role, designing, executing and interpreting bespoke in vitro studies. Averages about 50percent in the office and 50percent in the lab. Proposing and investigating potential new therapeutic targets and novel mechanisms of kidney disease. Involves cross-functional collaboration within the business, frequent presentations, and many tasks such as risk assessment writing, experiment documentation etc.

9/10

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

The breadth and number of the skills I've learnt or that have developed since I started is huge. These range from practical lab skills to personal skills such as time management and effective presenting.

9/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

It is largely enjoyable. The academic content is usually directly relevant to my work. I enjoy the variety of the lab work which could have real positive impact for patients. At busy times it can be hard to balance work, study and personal life.

7/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

The programme is well structured and organised, for which credit is due to both AstraZeneca and the University of Kent.

8/10

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

As much as I need - AstraZeneca is genuinely invested in the success of their employees.

9/10

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

The training provider can seem quite absent as the only way to communicate is via email or Teams, there are no live lectures. However, academics do provide live revision sessions which is a positive, and are always ready to help over email. The bi-monthly reviews with my apprenticeship advisor are a good form of support.

7/10

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

The academic content is usually directly relevant to my role and therefore helps me understand my daily work better which is important for success.

7/10

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 apprentice social societies; various employee resource groups, for example for neurodiverse colleagues; various opportunities to attend relevant conferences and symposiums

8/10

9a. Would you recommend AstraZeneca to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

Good work culture - general atmosphere is friendly, hard working and supportive. The company will invest in your success and wellbeing. You are able to work alongside brilliant minds whilst actually making a genuine contribution to drug projects, and there are many opportunities to develop/increase your skills base.

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

Don't expect to know everything within a few weeks of starting. The role is a continuous learning experience. Consider carefully whether you want to join in science or another area such as IT, HR etc.