Statistics - Industrial Placement Review

Tasks are assigned based on availability and by trial you are assigned to. Each day, you work with a person in your team to work on production and validation of requested reports. This is generally generated using programming such as R and SAS. How you spend your time is entirely up to you so you can decide when and what to do each day.

I have learned so many new skills since joining in September; in particular, a new programming language, SAS, and so much new statistics content such as survival analysis. I have also developed many other skills such as my R programming. Another key skill I believe has developed considerably is presentation and communication, having been given the opportunity to put these skills to the test. There are so many opportunities for personal development here at AstraZeneca, through both internal and external resources.

I have been trusted with running a plethora of analyses and giving me the opportunity to take lead on some tasks, allowing me to develop leadership skills even. Throughout the year, the level of responsibility has increased appropriately to reflect my confidence in the role, therefore has pushed me to develop while also supporting me.

At the beginning of my time at AZ, there was daily meetings with my manager to ensure I was settling in and enjoying the early days of my placement. My manager ensured that both work and personal life has adapted well, knowing that I had also moved to a new city with all new people. There was also very frequent networking events to get to know your colleagues. Once I became comfortable, the regular meetings with my manager moved to once per week to reflect the support needed. There are also a host of internal resources for those that need additional support. I have felt very well-supported this year!

There is a great effort to make the workplace an enjoyable atmosphere with teams of people putting together events to allow colleagues to interact and develop working relationships. This includes networking events, cakes and many other opportunities. Atmosphere is seemingly very positive.

I did not know what I wanted to do coming into my placement year at AZ, but this placement has given me a great taste of what working in the pharmaceutical industry can entail. I have thoroughly enjoyed my time here and now considering this as a potential career path moving forward.

Yes

Do not be intimidated. There are plenty of people supporting your work and your development at AZ who would be happy to help you if needed. Take the leap and push yourself outside of your comfort zone as this is when you will learn the most!