Analytical Science Industrial Placement Student Review

I would plan and carry out experiments, either to develop and validate analytical methods for use in an operations and quality assurance/release testing environment, or to support the release of material for clinical trials. Some days I would spend in the lab and others are in the office/at home, either writing up experiments to a deadline/carrying out analysis or performing other work for the team.

I've gained practical knowledge/experience and improved theoretical understanding of analytical techniques that I learnt about at university, using techniques like LC on nearly a daily basis. This was gained through formal training but also from performing different analysis and learning from more experienced members of the team. I've also greatly improved my teamwork, organization and presentation/communication skills as well as my ability to work independently and autonomously.

I was just another member of the team, performing work that everyone else did - you're not seen as 'the student' and given special work etc. The level of responsibility is high, performing important work such as transcription checking important documents, developing methods or carrying out analysis to a GMP level to allow release of clinical material. You're exposed to different areas of the business and are expected to work with a high degree of autonomy, but always with a high level of support and within the scope of what would be expected of you.

On joining you're assigned a supervisor within your team as well as your line manager who are both always there to support you throughout the year. Everyone across the business and within my team has always been incredibly supportive, friendly and approachable. If you have a question or are unsure there is always someone who will take the time to have a chat with you. The people are what made this placement and makes AZ such a great place to work.

There's a great range of company talks to attend. From the general business events organized by the SLT to more focused events within the scientific community. I have been lucky enough to take part in two volunteering days with my time during my time here which was great to get out in the wider community but also to grow connections with my team. We have regular diversity and inclusion events as well as LGBTQ+ month too. Within my team we also have regular check-ins throughout the week to talk about anything (not just work). It's a great atmosphere to be working in.

It's been great. As with any job there's always going to be periods where you don't want to get up and go to work in the morning, but on the whole I've loved it. Getting to see chemistry outside of the textbook/lecture theatre has been really eye opening for me and it's been really rewarding to do that for a company who's focus is on the patients and the science, not just the commercial drive behind it all. The placement exceeded my expectation, especially with the level of responsibility I've been given and the importance of the work I've been trusted to complete. If I decide that analytical science is the career path I want to take I would definitely be interested in coming back, but even if it isn't I would love to work for AstraZeneca again in any capacity - it really is an amazing organisation. The highlight for me has to be the people though. Everyone here really cares about what we do and the impact it will have on our patients. But not only do they care about that, they care about each other, and we have a great time doing it. Would recommend AZ and this placement to anyone!

Yes

Go for it! When you prepare for the interview, try to relax. It sounds cliche but they just want to see that you'll fit in, so be yourself. The technical interview isn't anything to be too worried about, and if you don't know the answer that's okay! They want to see how you get there/your though process and how you take on help, knowing the right answer straight away isn't the be all and end all.