Drug Discovery Apprentice Review
at Charles River
Degree Apprenticeship
Science
Cambridge
Review Submitted: April 2025
Overall Rating
4.7 /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!
4.5/5
-
Overview of Role
5/5
-
Skills Development
4.4/5
-
Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
4/5
I'm a drug discovery apprentice working within Compound Management. On a day to day basis, I work on weighing and solubilizing compounds, performing dispenses and archiving compounds
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I am enjoying the programme, the environment is welcoming and everyone is always willing to help and teach newcomers.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
I have been able to develop many skills: time management, problem solving, IT proficiency, teamwork etc. I have also been able to cultivate new skills working within a laboratory setting.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
Apprentices rotate yearly between departments, allowing them to be taught in multiple disciplines across the business. They also get dedicated weekly study days to focus on the Uni work.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
Apprentices are given lots of support; a mentor, manager, apprenticeship advisor and buddy is allocated to each apprentice so you always have someone to go to regarding any matters whether it be business or uni related
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
3/5
We have a meeting with an advisor from the Uni every 3 months which helps keep us on track to meet targets and check up on how the workload is going. However, communication from the Uni other than that can be sparse but they are looking into options to help.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
4/5
This can be dependent on the department you are placed into. Sometimes the Uni module and department are unrelated but there are always options to get experience in whatever topic you are currently studying.
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
host a few social activities and sports tournaments throughout the year
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Charles River to a friend?
Yes
Why?
The apprenticeship scheme offers a great opportunity to get into a drug discovery career and get laboratory based skills while working towards a degree. There is support no matter what department you are in and everyone is happy to answer any questions
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Charles River?
Show an interest in the role and research the company
