Drug Discovery Apprentice Review
at Charles River
Degree Apprenticeship
Science
Saffron Walden
Review Submitted: April 2025
Overall Rating
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!
4/5
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Overview of Role
5/5
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Skills Development
3.4/5
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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:
4/5
My role in my current department involves working majorly with compounds. I am involved in the compound library management where i help manage the library of both liquid and solid compounds. I also get involved with the making-up of different solvents and standards which are needed to run our equipments. My other tasks include processing compound ad-hoc requests for clients and also completing the necessary online paperwork and documentation using a software.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
4/5
I certainly enjoy my apprenticeship programme as I am able to explore and try out new things and connect with different people who share similar goals. I also like the fact that I'm exposed to the real world of work in a field that I'm passionate about which will help build a solid foundation for my career.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
So far, I have developed and improved on a lot of skills such as organisation, time management, communication and IT skills. I have also gained new skills such as the use of specific software and lab equipments.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
3/5
The programme is generally well structured with yearly rotations around departments which is great to give you exposure to different areas of the company, although you might not get to pick your next department and are being assigned one instead. In a week, 4 days are being dedicated to work and 1 day to studying online which helps to balance out the workloads. Although, the modules don't really have a clear structure and timetable which means it can be quite difficult to judge what needs to be done and by when.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
4/5
I receive a lot of support at work which comes from my line manager, mentor, buddy and colleagues who are always willing to help. I usually have weekly or bi-weekly catch-up meetings with both my line manager and my mentor to catch-up on my general wellbeing and help me stay on track.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
4/5
I have access to a module convenor who I can always contact with any questions from my module, and a review meeting with my apprenticeship advisor every 3 months to review my progress with both work and studies.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
3/5
My qualification in general is related to my role which means I can apply it directly to my work. But depending on which module you're working on, it could be completely unrelated to your current department which then means you can't apply it to 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.)
3/5
There are a few volunteering opportunities, but we could do with a lot more activities.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend Charles River to a friend?
Yes
Why?
It has a really good support system and great opportunities for learning and developing new skills.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to Charles River?
Ensure to do your research on the background of the company and its core values. Show that you're passionate about the field you've chosen and are eager to join the company.
