Laboratory Scientist Review

I run the solubility screening service within chemical development at Astrazeneca . My days consist of analytical prework, sample preparation and sample analysis with training opportunities. I interact daily with internal customers regarding tickets we are given and other news. I interact with my team also at least once a week and my mentor twice weekly.

I have learned many new technical scientific skills such as weighing, pipetting, using a UPLC, using automation equipment and analysis skills. I have also developed my communication skills both scientific and non-scientific and developed how i work within an effective team. I hope to develop leadership skills in the future

I enjoy my programme a lot, i have made some friends at work however i do not directly work with/see people my age on a day to day basis. I enjoy all the social aspects of the programme and all the training opportunities. My day to day work is enjoyable

My programme is very well structured. I have yearly goals to aim for and an individual development plan for myself. I have one day a week to study and 4 to work and it is very flexible. Astrazeneca are very good at making a plan for me and involving me in this

i receive an abundance of support from Astrazeneca. I have a mentor, line manager, buddy and i know i can approach any of them - or any other person who works here at astrazeneca about any issues i may have work related or life related. There is support in so many different forms here

I receive adequate support from my training provider, however some of the content we are provided with is not freshly recorded but from previous years and sometimes can be confusing but all the content is there for us to achieve our qualification. I think the other support e.g. mental health support from mmu is great

I feel the qualification helps me understand further what i do in my role and the science around my role. Currently i think i could perform my role without the qualification but in future when i am more involved and qualified i will have more opportunities to use skills gained in the qualification

There are so many extra curricular activities at work for people with all kinds of interests and you are can make your own activity if you are not accommodated for. There are sports teams such as football, there is a gym and lots of internal events advertised all the time

Yes

Because it is a place that values me as an employee, has good ethics and values and develops me as a person. It is a community of great minds working towards ambitious goals as a collective and it is a great place to work. There are so many opportunities in so many forms here

Be honest on your CV and interviews. Have interest in the role your applying to and familiarise yourself with what it may entail. Prepare yourself for an interview process and think about why you want the role you are applying to and how you will be a good fit for it.