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R&D Graduate Scientist - Biosciences Review

at AstraZeneca

Graduate Scheme

Pharmaceutical, Science

Cambridge

Review Submitted: August 2026

Overall Rating

4.7 /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!

4.8/5 - Overview of the Role
4.8/5 - Experience & Company Culture
4/5 - Recommendations & Advice

Overview of the Role

Overall, how would you describe your experience at AstraZeneca?

The graduate scheme has provided me with opportunities to work across different teams and develop a wide range of technical and scientific skills. I've particularly valued the supportive culture of all the teams I have been in, where colleagues have been willing to share their expertise and provide guidance while also giving me the autonomy to take ownership of my work. The programme has helped me grow in confidence as a scientist, strengthen my problem-solving and communication skills, and gain exposure to areas I have never had experience in before. Overall, it has been an excellent environment for both professional and personal development, and I feel it has prepared me well for the next stage of my career.

What are the main responsibilities of the role and which elements of the role do you enjoy the most?

My main responsibilities include designing and carrying out experiments, analysing and presenting data, and collaborating with colleagues across different teams to support research projects. Throughout the graduate scheme, I've had the opportunity to work in several areas of research, which has helped me develop a broad scientific skillset.
What I've enjoyed most is the variety of experiences the scheme has offered. Each rotation has exposed me to new scientific challenges and ways of working, keeping the role both engaging and rewarding. I've particularly enjoyed problem-solving, learning new techniques, and taking ownership of the projects.

To what extent does your role give you the opportunity to contribute meaningfully and feel valued by your team?

4/5

How does your compensation package - including perks & benefits - fairly remunerate you for the work you do?

5/5

How well do you feel the role is preparing you for your future career?

5/5

How would you rate the extent to which you were developing new or existing skills through formal training and your day-to-day role?

5/5

Experience & Company Culture

How is the support you receive?

5/5

How is your work-life balance?

5/5

What is the organisational culture, values and general atmosphere like?

5/5

How would you rate AstraZeneca initiatives when it comes to equality, diversity, inclusion and accessibility?

4/5

How would you rate AstraZeneca CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) initiatives?

5/5

Recommendations & Advice

Would you recommend AstraZeneca to a friend?

Yes

Why?

I would recommend the graduate scheme because it offers a great balance of support, responsibility, and development opportunities. The rotation structure has allowed me to experience different areas of research, learn new techniques, and work with a wide range of talented scientists. It's given me the chance to challenge myself, build confidence, and discover the areas of science I enjoy most, while contributing to projects that have a real impact.

How well did the role match your expectations based on the recruitment process?

4/5

When considering the recruitment & onboarding process, have you any specific tips or advice you would give to others applying to AstraZeneca?

I would say be yourself in the interview, and research about the company, especially what excites you about joining.
In This Review
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