Oncology Apprentice Review

by AstraZeneca

Best Apprenticeship Employer

Rating

8.4/10

1. Please give an overview of your role and what this involves on a day-to-day basis:

On a day to day basis I support clinical trials by performing Next-Generation Sequencing from clinical samples to assess resistance and response to a therapy. I also help to develop new technologies in the lab.

8/10

2. Have you learnt any new skills or developed existing skills?

I have learnt all new lab skills, including how to perform each task in the lab as well as the theory behind it. I have learnt how to analyse the data and how to troubleshoot if something does not go right.

9/10

3. To what extent do you enjoy your programme?

I really enjoy my programme, no two days are the same and I am always given the opportunity to work on new exciting clinical trials and to work independently in the lab.

10/10

4. How well organised/structured is your programme?

It is structured well. I meet with my line manager weekly, and my university apprenticeship advisor every 8 weeks. The support surrounding the EPA could have been improved as there was a lot of confusion and miscommunication about the requirements.

7/10

5. How much support do you receive from your employer?

I receive a lot of support from my employer. I meet with my line manager weekly and can raise any questions or concerns I have. Anyone at work is happy to help with university work or anything else I might be struggling with.

10/10

6. How much support do you receive from your training provider when working towards your qualifications?

I receive some support from my training provider for my qualifications. I meet with my apprenticeship advisor every 8 weeks and can contact her anytime between reviews with questions. Support from lecturers varies depending on the module.

7/10

7. How well do you feel that your qualification (through your training provider) helps you to perform better in your role?

There is not a lot of correlation between the learnings from university and the work I do at work. However, it helps my general scientific knowledge which helps me understand other areas of the business.

8/10

8. Are there extra-curricular activities to get involved in at your work? (For example, any social activities, sports teams, or even professional networking events.)

There is a great apprentice community who organise various social events outside of work including sports teams. There are also volunteering days that we organise and can get involved with.

8/10

9a. Would you recommend AstraZeneca to a friend?

Yes

9b. Why?

Everyone here is very supportive and willing to help with any problems. There is lots of opportunities to meet new people and get involved in different activities.

10. What tips or advice would you give to others applying to AstraZeneca?

Be yourself in your application, show how you get involved in different activities and how you would like to get involved as an apprentice. Don't be afraid to ask questions!