Analytical Scientist Review

I thoroughly enjoyed my work placement. I feel like I learnt lost about analytical chemistry, as well as picking up skills that are required in employment. The atmosphere also contributed to my enjoyment as all of my colleagues were friendly and helpful.

Once the year had come to an end, I felt like I was part of the furniture. I was valued just as much as any other employee, in terms of my work and my opinion. It was very strange to leave.

I had monthly meetings with both my supervisor and my manager, separately, to ensure that I was happy with everything and keeping on top of my work. Outside of these meetings both my supervisor and my manager were very approachable if I ever needed help.

At times, I felt I was perhaps a little too busy, as I worked in a team with a very high work demand. But after a while I soon learnt how to cope with this.

I was given just as much responsibility as any other scientist when it came to lab work. However, students were not allowed to check other scientists work before it was signed off. I completely understand why this was though.

If I decide to continue into analytical chemistry, everything that I learnt on my placement will assist me in every aspect of future jobs. If not, it will still help me when undergoing job application processes and I also learnt how to work effectively within a team; which is expected in almost every job.

The atmosphere in my office was great. Everybody was friendly and people were always bringing in cakes etc. However, it was possible to have a serious moment if it was needed and my colleagues helped me out on countless occasions when I needed advice.

The work placement was very organised. 2 weeks of initial training was undergone first and then I was integrated into my team. The only occasion where it felt unorganized was when there was a departmental re-organisation which led to me being separated from my supervisor. Fortunately some of my team mates ended up in my new team and all the people in this new team were also welcoming and always helpful; so it wasn't really an issue.

An initial training period of 2 weeks was given and then we were encouraged to take advantage of any other training opportunities that arose in the time that we were there.

I will be applying for the next graduate scheme intake.

There were 10 students taking part in the analytical placement and another 10 on an organic synthesis placement. There was also a student 'society' set yo by AstraZeneca in aim to get us all connected.

The cost of living was not too high and the salary that I received allowed me to be more than comfortable finance-wise.

The nightlife wasn't too exciting but there were plenty of pubs which we visited often. Manchester was only about half an hour away on the train though.

There were regular team nights out, which were great as it allows you to get to know your team a little better. There was also an 'it's a knock out' event which was great fun. There's a real community atmosphere at AZ.