Technician Scientist Apprentice Review
at AstraZeneca
Degree Apprenticeship
Chemistry
Macclesfield
Review Submitted: March 2025
Overall Rating
4.3 /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
-
Overview of Role
5/5
-
Skills Development
3.8/5
-
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
• Designing commercially viable drug substance synthetic routes and manufacturing methods.
• Technology Transfer of drug substance manufacturing processes.
• Identifying Drug Substance process improvement opportunities for marketed products.
• Exploitation of cutting edge technologies.
• Provision of Chemical Development expertise in the delivery of Technical Stewardship.
• Collaboratively helping to design, develop and implement best practice in chemical development
• Technology Transfer of drug substance manufacturing processes.
• Identifying Drug Substance process improvement opportunities for marketed products.
• Exploitation of cutting edge technologies.
• Provision of Chemical Development expertise in the delivery of Technical Stewardship.
• Collaboratively helping to design, develop and implement best practice in chemical development
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
4/5
I truly enjoy my program! It has been an incredible experience that has allowed me to learn and grow in my field. The hands-on training and the opportunity to work with knowledgeable professionals have made it both engaging and rewarding. I appreciate the challenges and the support I receive, which motivates me to excel even further.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
1. Laboratory Techniques: Proficiency in various laboratory techniques, such as pipetting, titration, centrifugation, and chromatography.
2. Data Analysis: Skills in analysing experimental data using statistical methods and software tools, leading to accurate interpretation of results.
3. Quality Control: Understanding of quality control procedures and maintaining laboratory standards to ensure accuracy and reliability of experiments.
4. Safety Protocols: Knowledge of laboratory safety protocols, including the proper handling of chemicals, biological materials, and equipment.
5. Experimental Design: Ability to design and conduct experiments, including hypothesis formulation, variable control, and methodology development.
6. Problem-Solving: Enhanced critical thinking and problem-solving skills to troubleshoot experimental issues and optimise procedures.
7. Equipment Operation: Experience operating and maintaining laboratory equipment, such as microscopes, spectrophotometers, and incubators.
8. Technical Writing: Proficiency in writing reports, lab notebooks, and protocols clearly and concisely, documenting experimental procedures and findings.
9. Team Collaboration: Experience working in a team environment, collaborating with fellow scientists and technicians to achieve research goals.
10. Regulatory Compliance: Understanding of regulations and compliance related to laboratory practices, including Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) and ISO standards.
11. Research Skills: Experience in conducting literature reviews and applying relevant scientific literature to ongoing research projects.
12. Time Management: Ability to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively in a fast-paced laboratory setting.
2. Data Analysis: Skills in analysing experimental data using statistical methods and software tools, leading to accurate interpretation of results.
3. Quality Control: Understanding of quality control procedures and maintaining laboratory standards to ensure accuracy and reliability of experiments.
4. Safety Protocols: Knowledge of laboratory safety protocols, including the proper handling of chemicals, biological materials, and equipment.
5. Experimental Design: Ability to design and conduct experiments, including hypothesis formulation, variable control, and methodology development.
6. Problem-Solving: Enhanced critical thinking and problem-solving skills to troubleshoot experimental issues and optimise procedures.
7. Equipment Operation: Experience operating and maintaining laboratory equipment, such as microscopes, spectrophotometers, and incubators.
8. Technical Writing: Proficiency in writing reports, lab notebooks, and protocols clearly and concisely, documenting experimental procedures and findings.
9. Team Collaboration: Experience working in a team environment, collaborating with fellow scientists and technicians to achieve research goals.
10. Regulatory Compliance: Understanding of regulations and compliance related to laboratory practices, including Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) and ISO standards.
11. Research Skills: Experience in conducting literature reviews and applying relevant scientific literature to ongoing research projects.
12. Time Management: Ability to prioritize tasks and manage time effectively in a fast-paced laboratory setting.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
Yes, my program is very well organised and structured! The curriculum is thoughtfully designed, providing a clear roadmap of what to expect at each stage. The combination of theoretical knowledge and practical experiences is balanced, which helps reinforce my learning. Additionally, the support from mentors and regular feedback makes it easy to stay on track and measure my progress.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
4/5
I receive a lot of support from my employer. They are very invested in my development and provide a variety of resources, including mentorship, training opportunities, and regular feedback. The open communication and encouragement make a significant difference in my learning experience and overall confidence in my role.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
3/5
I receive a good amount of support from my training provider while working towards my qualifications. They offer helpful resources, guidance, and access to knowledgeable instructors who are always willing to assist. The structured approach to training, along with regular check-ins, ensures that I stay on track and feel confident in my progress.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
3/5
Yes, I feel that my qualification through my training provider significantly helps me perform better in my role. The knowledge and skills I've gained are directly applicable to my day-to-day tasks, allowing me to contribute more effectively to my team. The training has equipped me with a deeper understanding of concepts and practices that are essential for success in my position.
Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)
4/5
Yes, there are several extracurricular activities to get involved in at my workplace! I'm part of a network for women, which provides excellent opportunities for professional development and networking. Additionally, there are employee resource groups (ERGs) that focus on various interests and demographics, as well as events like Culture Connect that celebrate diversity and foster community. These activities not only enhance our workplace culture but also allow for meaningful connections with colleagues.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend AstraZeneca to a friend?
Yes
Why?
I would definitely recommend AstraZeneca to a friend. The company has a great reputation for its commitment to innovation and improving patient health. The work environment is positive and supportive, and there are numerous opportunities for professional growth and development. Overall, it's a fantastic place to build a career in the pharmaceutical industry.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to AstraZeneca?
1. Research the Company: Understand AstraZeneca's mission, values, and recent developments. Familiarising yourself with the company’s products and areas of focus will help you align your application with their goals.
2. Tailor Your Application: Customize your CV and cover letter to highlight relevant experiences and skills that match the specific role you are applying for. Make sure to showcase how your qualifications fit with AstraZeneca's needs.
3. Prepare for Interviews: Anticipate common interview questions and prepare thoughtful responses. Be ready to discuss your experiences, achievements, and how you handle challenges.
4. Showcase Your Passion: Demonstrate your enthusiasm for the pharmaceutical industry and AstraZeneca’s mission. Share why you’re interested in working for the company and how you can contribute to its success.
5. Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration: AstraZeneca values teamwork, so be sure to highlight experiences where you have successfully worked as part of a team or collaborated with others.
6. Leverage Networking: If possible, connect with current or former AstraZeneca employees to gain insights about the company culture and the application process. This can also help you learn about potential opportunities.
7. Emphasise Continuous Learning: Show your commitment to professional development and lifelong learning. Mention any relevant courses, certifications, or workshops you’ve attended.
8. Be Yourself: Authenticity is important. Let your personality shine through in your application and interviews. AstraZeneca is looking for individuals who will fit into their culture.
2. Tailor Your Application: Customize your CV and cover letter to highlight relevant experiences and skills that match the specific role you are applying for. Make sure to showcase how your qualifications fit with AstraZeneca's needs.
3. Prepare for Interviews: Anticipate common interview questions and prepare thoughtful responses. Be ready to discuss your experiences, achievements, and how you handle challenges.
4. Showcase Your Passion: Demonstrate your enthusiasm for the pharmaceutical industry and AstraZeneca’s mission. Share why you’re interested in working for the company and how you can contribute to its success.
5. Highlight Teamwork and Collaboration: AstraZeneca values teamwork, so be sure to highlight experiences where you have successfully worked as part of a team or collaborated with others.
6. Leverage Networking: If possible, connect with current or former AstraZeneca employees to gain insights about the company culture and the application process. This can also help you learn about potential opportunities.
7. Emphasise Continuous Learning: Show your commitment to professional development and lifelong learning. Mention any relevant courses, certifications, or workshops you’ve attended.
8. Be Yourself: Authenticity is important. Let your personality shine through in your application and interviews. AstraZeneca is looking for individuals who will fit into their culture.
