Laboratory Scientist Degree Apprentice Review
at AstraZeneca
Degree Apprenticeship
Pharmaceutical, Research, Science
Cambridge
Review Submitted: February 2026
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!
4.5/5
-
Overview of Role
5/5
-
Skills Development
4.8/5
-
Structure and Support
Overview of Role
Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:
5/5
During my apprenticeship so far, I’ve gained hands-on experience in the lab and followed ongoing projects in my team. I have been immersed in the team, attending meetings and learning about how the drug discovery pipeline works. Day-to-day varies, with some days being more lab heavy, and other days being more desk based and meeting orientated.
To what extent do you enjoy your programme?
4/5
I thoroughly enjoy being an apprentice at AstraZeneca. It’s a truly unique learning environment where you are immersed in cutting-edge science whilst studying for your degree. This is sometimes intimidating and daunting, as you are often out of your comfort zone, but this allows you to grow in ways you might not have if taking the traditional university route.
Skills Development
Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?
5/5
In the lab, I have been introduced to many new techniques and technologies. I have been introduced to tissue culture, CRISPR and various pieces of automation equipment. Aside from laboratory skills, I have developed my soft skills massively. This includes communication skills, teamwork, time-management and general confidence in the workplace.
Structure and Support
How well organised/structured is your programme?
5/5
My programme is well structured, with 4 days in office and 1 day study leave. I have frequent meetings with my manager, supervisor and training provider to track my progress, receive feedback and discuss any questions or concerns I may have.
How much support do you receive from your employer?
5/5
There is excellent support in place for apprentices at AstraZeneca. My team is friendly and welcoming and I truly feel a part of the team. My learning and development is always encouraged and I feel comfortable asking questions. Aside from my immediate team, the apprenticeship team is very friendly and approachable and I feel confident that I would receive any support I need.
How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?
4/5
My university cohort is small, which is great because my learning feels very personalised. Any questions get answered fast and feedback on assignments is helpful and in-depth. However, it’s important to actively seek help when you need it as you can sometimes feel a bit far-removed from the university when learning exclusively online. The support is in place but you must seek it. The progress review meetings feel compliance driven rather than providing valuable support, but further support is available if needed.
How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?
5/5
Being in my first year, my course content is setting a strong foundation in core biological concepts. Being so early in my apprenticeship, the projects I am working on require a more in-depth knowledge, which is sometimes difficult. The course often pushes you to do outside reading related to your role, so you can tailor your learning so it is relevant to your 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 many activities to get involved with at work. The apprentice and early talent community organise social events throughout the year which has fostered a strong sense of community. As an apprentice, having a network of people who can relate to your experiences is extremely important. Additionally, my team organises various social events which is a great way to connect with your colleagues.
Recommendations & Advice
Would you recommend AstraZeneca to a friend?
Yes
Why?
AstraZeneca fosters a positive, inclusive working environment that truly values early talent and their development. If you’re passionate about science and want to be immersed in the workplace while you learn, an AstraZeneca degree apprenticeship is a great opportunity that I would highly recommend!
What tips or advice would you give to others applying to AstraZeneca?
Be yourself and don’t try to embody what you think a scientist or degree apprentice should look like. My idea of a scientist working at AstraZeneca was completely different to the people I work with and encounter daily. There is a diverse range of people at AstraZeneca, and everyone brings value through their personal strengths and life experiences.
