Higher Laboratory Scientist Apprentice Review

Act as part of a service group for process chemists to communicate with, regarding specific sections of chemical synthesis within the pharmaceutical research and development space. Perform laboratory experiments and attend meetings where required, often representing our group in larger organisational meetings. Working on a number of different projects, both company and new technology based.

My communication skills have greatly developed since starting as I have had to interact with a larger variety and number of people than I ever had to in a schooling environment. I am progressing towards obtaining a degree in chemistry at university as well as obtaining deeper subject knowledge in the workplace.

I enjoy the work I do 90% of the time and look forward to turning up everyday. It's not predictable what will happen in research and development so you never stop learning and growing from experiences. The team treat me as they treat any other employee regardless of my status as an apprentice, which definitely helps with morale boosting as I feel I have an equal impact to those who have been there far longer than me.

At work my training is highly structured and organised wherever required and I have a clear path of progression. As an apprentice, my training is slightly less structured with regards to completing my portfolio for the apprenticeship though I know support is there if I should need it. My degree is quite well organised and it is always made sure that I have done the training and studying required for me to complete my apprenticeship.

Pfizer are very supportive to their apprentices and ensure we have the best workplace experience we possibly can. My manager checks up on me regularly as well as at other times should I need it, and has regular 1:1 sessions to make sure I am on track. As a department, chemical research and development are very supportive of their apprentices making the most out of their time at Pfizer

Due to being distance learning, there have been some issues with my training provider regarding communication and checking apprentices are on track. I feel there is support should I need it, but overall communication is an area for improvement for my training provider and the university. All problems, however, have been resolved without an issue.

I feel that my role at my job has had a greater impact on helping me understand my degree content rather than the other way round. I learn far better on the job than I do from reading information so the combination works better than either in isolation. There have been pieces of information that I have been able to use from my degree to help in the workplace, though it is not entirely tailored to my role and so this has been a challenge in places. I am not entirely sure that my degree is correct for the role I currently have in the workplace, though there are some places where it is applicable.

The apprentice community at Pfizer is a strong network and there are frequent social outings which all of the apprentices are invited to. As well as this, there are often departmental dinners, etc. which are great to be involved in, even if just for the socialisation as it helps you feel a more involved part of the community.

Yes

Working for Pfizer is a great experience, full of opportunities to benefit you both personally and in your career. I have met so many wonderful people who have helped me develop my knowledge and my communication skills, which I don't think I would have done if I took a degree at university.

Involve yourself as much as possible and make sure you show how keen you are to get stuck in. Make sure you are applying because you think you will enjoy your role and have a real concern for what you are doing, not just for the sake of having a job. It will mean you come across as more genuine and caring, which is often what is being looked for in a company where helping people is their aim.