Laboratory Scientist Review
at AstraZeneca
Degree Apprenticeship
Chemistry, Pharmaceutical, Research, Science
Cambridge
Review Submitted: February 2026
Overall Rating
4.9 /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
5/5
-
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
Work as a lab scientist in the purification team. I set up different chromatography experiments and then analyse the results.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
5/5
I like the mix of working and studying. The company is supportive of my balance between university for example during exam season I can ask for an extra study day so that I feel more prepared.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
Have developed numerous skills in the lab - pipetting, working with different purification machines, understanding the different methods of purifications
Employability skills have also improved - have presented in meetings, take part in STEM outreach activities, confidence in the workplace
Employability skills have also improved - have presented in meetings, take part in STEM outreach activities, confidence in the workplace
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
The university is very organised - each term they provide a clear structure of each weeks content. The work for the following week is released the friday before which allows felxibility if you have a busy work week for example or if you want to get ahead on your studies.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
Understanding and supportive of the university and work balance, during exam season I am usually able to take an extra study day if I provide enough notice.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
5/5
Lecturers are responsive and supportive. If you fall behind on content they will provide you will resources to help. The university understand that you have other commitments at work so are flexible and can provide extensions on coursework/exams if needed.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
I can see the link between the modules we study and the work that I do in my job. The content covered also highlights the other opportunities that are in the pharmaceutical industry.
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
Lots of extra currcular activities to join e.g apprentice journal club, monthly socials and socials within the worksplace - team volunteering days and team lunches.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend AstraZeneca to a friend?
Yes
Why?
Great company with lots of benefits. Strong apprentice commitee and a great way to start your career
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to AstraZeneca?
Research the company before your interview as this shows interest in the organisation e.g what are the key goals of the company - see if you can think of examples where you have demonstrated these
Do things outside of your college/A level courses for example DofE, volunteering, summer placement as these things will help to make you stand out from the crowd during the application process.
Do things outside of your college/A level courses for example DofE, volunteering, summer placement as these things will help to make you stand out from the crowd during the application process.
