Senior Data Scientist Review
at AstraZeneca
Degree Apprenticeship
Data Analysis
Liverpool
Review Submitted: May 2024
Overall Rating
3.4 /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!
2.5/5
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Overview of Role
4/5
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Skills Development
3.2/5
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Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
3/5
Statistical analysis and visualisation of data from scientific studies, manufacturing process development and commercial manufacturing of influenza vaccine.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
2/5
I particularly enjoyed developing coding skills and learning about the historical 'back-story' of AI and code. The workload was heavier than expected, it was difficult balancing apprenticeship, work and family life. There were frequent frustrating software installation issues. Some course material was poor quality (errors in example code, maths).
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
During the apprenticeship I learned:
- Python coding techniques for data analysis, visualisation and machine learning.
- Basics of creating and managing SQL databases
- History and theory of the development of coding languages and artificial intelligence
- Mathematical principles (e.g. linear algebra) underpinning AI
- Software development practices, project management, business communication principles.
- Python coding techniques for data analysis, visualisation and machine learning.
- Basics of creating and managing SQL databases
- History and theory of the development of coding languages and artificial intelligence
- Mathematical principles (e.g. linear algebra) underpinning AI
- Software development practices, project management, business communication principles.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
The course was structured well. The course modules were well balanced between technical skills, understanding the context and history of the subject and soft skills. Most of the course modules were well laid out with a good mix of context, information, examples and opportunities to discuss/practise.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
3/5
My manager was supportive and allowed me to take the required time to get course work done. However, there was a serious and frustrating lack of communication between my employer and the training provider in terms of the required software and permissions. Company cybersecurity policies often prevented course software installation.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
3/5
My 'success manager' was very kind and supportive, we developed a good relationship. I was given a generous 'floating' deadline extension for a chronic medical condition. However, University IT support was poor, the initial software list was inadequate and the expectation that apprentices would have full administrator rights was unrealistic.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
3/5
The apprenticeship took more time and effort than I anticipated (20% working hours estimate was unrealistic) so I don't really feel able to answer this question until it's finished. Some training was immediately applicable, other parts weren't immediately relevant to my day job, some training was redundant.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
3/5
I'm probably at the older end of the apprentice age-range, so I'm more focused on family life than socialising. I also commute 20+ miles to work, which makes after-work socialising difficult. The site does a lot of volunteering/outreach/charity events, plus quizzes and diversity/inclusion network events.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend AstraZeneca to a friend?
Yes
Why?
I've found AstraZeneca to have a good, positive culture, although I've only really experienced one site (which is maybe a little bit isolated from the company's centre and has it's own unique history). Pay and benefits are good, although flexible working isn't routinely available.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to AstraZeneca?
I'm not well placed to give advice as I joined MedImmune before MedImmune was absorbed into AZ, so my knowledge of the recruitment process is probably out of date.
