Senior Data Scientist Review
at AstraZeneca
Degree Apprenticeship
Data Analysis
Liverpool
Review Submitted: January 2025
Overall Rating
3.6 /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!
3/5
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Overview of Role
4/5
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Skills Development
3.6/5
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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
I work on a pharmaceutical manufacturing site. I analyse scientific and manufacturing data for our R&D, QC and manufacturing teams. I use software packages (JMP, Prism, Minitab, Excel) and also write Python code. I also train our scientists and analysts in statistical and data analysis methods.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
3/5
In terms of enjoyment, it was a mixed experience. Some course content was extremely interesting and rewarding, other sections less so. The admin (time recording, form filling) was often tedious. I had repeated difficulties with course software installation. There were often periods of high pressure balancing job and coursework.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
4/5
During the apprenticeship I learned some technical skills (Python coding applications to data science and AI, database management, project management etc), some 'soft' skills (communication in business, AI in ethics/society) and some foundational knowledge (history of AI, mathematics of neural networks, linear algebra). It was a good mix.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
4/5
The Northeastern University Data Science and Artificial Intelligence course was, overall, well organised and well structured. The course units were well balanced. There were occasional glitches, but they generally got sorted out. The course tutors were responsive to any queries about the course content.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
My line manager was extremely supportive and engaged with my apprenticeship and helped me balance my job demands with my coursework.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
4/5
Northeastern University assigned me a 'success manager' who was my first contact for course admin and pastoral care. She was great, very supportive and helped me through a couple of sticky patches. However, she wasn't able to help with technical issues (like software installation), where support was weaker.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
3/5
Realising the benefits of the course will be an unfolding process. Some of the skills I learned were immediately relevant, others weren't aligned with my job role or required access to software that isn't available in my workplace. However, they might be more relevant in future roles.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
2/5
Many of my colleagues are younger and based nearby, whereas I'm older and commute from out of town, so I miss out on most of the 'after-work socialising'. There are seasonal quizzes and charity events, but they rarely interest me. I've recently joined a small after-work running group.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend AstraZeneca to a friend?
Yes
Why?
AstraZeneca is a science-focused company that has a solid record of growth over the past decade. It also has, from my experience, a positive culture in terms of employee engagement, development opportunities, diversity and a strong commitment to safety and environmental issues.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to AstraZeneca?
It's a while since I applied for my job (I'm not involved in recruitment either) so I'm not best placed to advise an applicant. I'd suggest looking carefully at the AZ company values (search online) and thinking about how your personality and experience aligns with them.
