Laboratory Scientist Apprentice Review
at AstraZeneca
Degree Apprenticeship
Science
Macclesfield
Review Submitted: January 2023
Overall Rating
4.8 /5
The Overall Rating is the average of all the ratings given in each category. We take those individual ratings and combine them into one final score!
5/5
-
Overview of Role
5/5
-
Skills Development
4.6/5
-
Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
5/5
Routine chemical analysis of oral drugs. Predominantly a laboratory based role. The role also involves data analysis of results gained during lab work. Typical techniques used includes gas and liquid chromatography (high performance and ultra high performance), water content testing, dissolution testing, use of NMR and IR spectroscopy, amongst others.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I enjoy my programme. I have one university day per week on which I complete my university work (which is delivered virtually). My course and the topics I study are relevant to my workplace. I feel supported by my colleagues, and the apprenticeship network at my workplace is well established and organised. I feel valued by my colleagues.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
Yes - high levels of organisation have been required alongside a good work ethic and ability to work well within a team. The work is very collaborative, needing good communication skills. These are examples of skills I have grown more confident in. Being introduced to a workplace setting through my apprenticeship, I have also gained new skills such as professionalism and working alongside colleagues located in other countries.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
Extremely well organised. Apprentices are valued and recognised within my company, and there are clear procedures/plans in place to guide and support apprentices through their work. The university side of my course is also well organised, however the virtual content provided is often tailored to full-time students, who are receiving slightly different content to us as part-time students, who are time restricted.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
My company provides support on all levels. There is a culture of support and friendliness that makes my company a great place to work, allowing people to feel comfortable to approach their colleagues/mentors/managers for support if they're struggling. You are also matched with a 'buddy' who you go for regular informal chats with (often over a coffee) to make sure you're settled in at work and feel supported. We have employee groups such as wellbeing groups or women's groups etc who organise events and meet-ups, again another example of workplace communities who I am involved with and can turn to for support.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
4/5
I receive adequate support from my university. All materials needed to gain my qualification/succeed in exams are provided, and my university makes every effort to have high levels of interaction with us - for example, through live webinars, and organising university residentials and induction days on-campus. Because of the nature of distance learning, it can often be difficult to maintain a sense of community and support.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
My course content provides both the academic knowledge full-time students receive, but it is also tailored to the workplace. For example, through units on business and regulatory affairs. I have found that my units relate directly to the work I do with my company, and have helped me become more confident at work.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
5/5
Work provides a wealth of opportunities to get involved in. We have lots of employee groups, such as netball teams, LGBTQ+ groups, special interest groups, wellbeing societies, social societies etc. You can join as many as you like , and they all organise social/network events. Departmental groups also organise networking events and showcases of current work happening within the department.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend AstraZeneca to a friend?
Yes
Why?
There is a clear development plan in place for me which is allowing me to develop my skills and reach my goals (both personal goals and ones set by work). The apprentice network is well established and recognised by my colleagues - I feel valued and an equal part of my team. The workplace is social with many groups and networks to become involved in.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to AstraZeneca?
Be yourself and show your personality. Demonstrate your interests relating to the job role you are applying for - for example, outside reading, online courses, even just a particular subject you're interested in! Being able to exemplify transferrable skills is important, such as being a team player and having a good work ethic.
