Medical statistician apprentice Review
at AstraZeneca
Higher Level Apprenticeship
Pharmaceutical
Macclesfield
Review Submitted: April 2025
Overall Rating
4.8 /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!
5/5
-
Overview of Role
5/5
-
Skills Development
4.6/5
-
Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
5/5
In early oncology, shadowing a Phase I study statistician involves observing their role in trial design, data monitoring, and safety analysis. I have learnt about dose-escalation methods, SAS coding and watched and participated in team discussions and assisting with QC-ing outputs that help in decision making during the trial.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I am thoroughly enjoying my programme as it offers a blend of learning and practical experience. Learning about oncology trials and mastering statistical techniques used during different stages of the process has been a rewarding experience. Also having the opportunity to learn about the pharmaceutical industry and how a statisticians role fits in.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
Developed a lot of coding skills, learning SAS and continuing to use R.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
The programme is well structured, blending practical on the job work experience with academic learning. The one day a week dedicated to online university studies is beneficial as it provides a consistent opportunity to reinforce theoretical knowledge gained on the job.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
I receive a lot of support from my employer through my line manager and in particular, my supervisor who guides me through my project work and gives advice. The study statistician I am shadowing also provides valuable insights and practical knowledge.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
4/5
The training provider offers substantial support working towards my qualifications. They provide instructors and resources through online tutorials and access to forums to ask questions.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
4/5
The qualification through my training provider has reinforced the basic knowledge I need for my role and will hopefully continue to provide courses that support the work I do in my role.
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
There are lots of opportunities to network and meet people in the office (hiking clubs, board games, coffee afternoons etc.)
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend AstraZeneca to a friend?
Yes
Why?
AstraZeneca is an excellent place to work with excellent colleagues to learn from and supportive line-managers who encourage you to do well and grow in the role. There is also plenty of opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work on innovative projects that make a meaningful impact on healthcare.
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to AstraZeneca?
Take interest in the company by looking into AZs pipeline and their values as a company. Think about how the role of a statistician could come into a clinical trial.
