At AstraZeneca, we put patients first and strive to meet their unmet needs worldwide. We’re deeply committed to our strategy of being a great place to work. For us, that includes fostering an environment where everyone can be among inclusive, supportive individuals with curious minds
A company that genuinely follows the science and values individuals at all levels, you’ll be backed and encouraged to speak up, ask questions, and share ideas to push the boundaries of science and continuously learn and explore
As part of our Early Talent Programme, you’ll be involved in projects and learning opportunities that have real impact from day one
Being part of our journey and helping us to provide life-changing medicine to patients all over the world and transform lives for the better
Making important contributions and embracing our values to deliver on our purpose. Because regardless of role or level, we all have an important part to play in making a positive difference.
We have opportunities available in our Biopharmaceuticals R&D function:
Cell Engineering
Early Stage Formulation Science
Early CVRM
Tasks could include:
Cultivate analytical skills and scientific expertise with the aim of becoming a proficient formulation scientist
Work collaboratively with team members and cross-functional teams to perform physico-chemical characterisation of lead candidates, developability and manufacturability studies, formulation screening and robustness studies and clinical in-use studies
Contribute to the preparation of technical reports and presentations, showcasing achievements and promoting activities to the broader team and AstraZeneca colleagues
AstraZeneca will sponsor you through your Laboratory Scientist Degree Apprenticeship, including studying to complete a BSc (Hons) degree in Chemical Science at Manchester Metropolitan Universityhttps://www.mmu.ac.uk/study/apprenticeships/courses/laboratory-scientist-chemical-science
The apprenticeship combines working, earning a full-time salary, with fully funded part-time university learning (on average 1 day/week). This will give you the opportunity to gain a qualification, just as you would if you went to university full-time, with the advantage of gaining relevant work-life skills and the excitement of helping to develop new medicines whilst taking your first steps towards a rewarding career
Additionally, the apprenticeships are recognised by the relevant professional bodies at Registered Scientist (RSci) level, for which there is a requirement that the scientist will participate in subsequent continuing professional development on completion of the apprenticeship
We truly value Early Talent - their thoughts, ideas and contributions. So throughout the programme, you’ll be encouraged and inspired to speak up, have a voice and make an impact
Training:
Apprentices work full-time whilst studying towards a BSc (Hons) Bioscience degree from Manchester Metropolitan University, as well as a Level 6 degree apprenticeship
Students study a tutor-supported e-distance learning curriculum and attend residential schools. The work-based projects, negotiated with employers, offer students the opportunity to apply their learning directly to their organisation
The programme is primarily taught through tutor-supported online study, part-time over four years
Apprentices will attend a two-day induction at the University to help them get to know each other and balance undergraduate study with working full-time
They will also attend a week-long residential at our campus in central Manchester once a year, in addition to a two-day mini-residential in the first year
Training Outcome:
On successful completion of the apprenticeship, candidates will be able to apply for further positions
Employer Description:At AstraZeneca we believe in the potential of our people and as an apprentice you will be given the opportunity to develop beyond your wildest dreams. We are looking for people who can share our passion for science & technology so if you feel you have the drive and determination to help us to deliver first class medicines to meet the needs of patients around the world, then we invite you to apply.
Our scientific research, development and technological innovation is well respected in the industry and we support our people, helping them to go above and beyond their expectations.
As a global, science-led biopharmaceutical business, our focus is on creating and developing new medicines that make a meaningful difference to patients’ lives and the UK is at the heart of our efforts to do that.Working Hours :Monday - Friday, shifts to be confirmed.Skills: Communication skills,Organisation skills,Problem solving skills,Number skills,Analytical skills,Logical,Team working,Initiative,Literacy skills,Self-motivated,Work independently....Read more...
Learn and perform lab experiments: Build skills in cell biology and molecular biology; help develop, optimise, and run cell-based and phenotypic assays. You will be trained in techniques such as CRISPR-Cas9, working in miniaturised plate formats under supervision.Support innovation and optimisation: Keep up to date with new scientific approaches in CRISPR screening, genome engineering, and functional genomics. Apply improvements to assays that help discover targets across multiple therapy areas.Collaborate and communicate: Work within cross-functional teams, share results clearly, and build networks across different disease areas and scientific disciplines.
Cultivate analytical skills and scientific expertise with the aim of becoming a proficient formulation scientist
Work collaboratively with team members and cross-functional teams to perform physico-chemical characterisation of lead candidates, developability and manufacturability studies, formulation screening and robustness studies, and clinical in-use studies.
Contribute to the preparation of technical reports and presentations, showcasing achievements and promoting activities to the broader team and AstraZeneca colleagues.
Training Outcome:Provided the candidate meets the requirements of the apprenitceship, they may be offered a permament contract. Employer Description:At AstraZeneca, we put patients first and strive to meet their unmet needs worldwide. We’re deeply committed to our strategy of being a great place to work. For us, that includes fostering an environment where everyone can be among inclusive, supportive individuals with curious minds.
A company that genuinely follows the science and values individuals at all levels, you’ll be backed and encouraged to speak up, ask questions, and share ideas to push the boundaries of science and continuously learn and explore.Working Hours :Monday to Friday 9am to 5pm.Skills: Communication skills,Attention to detail,Organisation skills,Problem solving skills,Analytical skills,Team working,Enthusiastic,prioritisation,Proactive Approach....Read more...
Join Incorez’s Preston R&D team, working at the heart of polymer synthesis, formulation, and product testing that supports Sika’s UK portfolio in sealants, adhesives, and coatings. Incorez has been part of the Sika Group since 2009, giving you the backing of a global leader while contributing to innovation at site level.
You will be based in the R&D function at the Preston Global Technology Centre, helping to develop new products, evaluate materials, and improve manufacturing efficiency—activities that directly support Sika’s transformation towards net‑zero and better customer outcomes.
What you’ll do (key responsibilities)
Support day‑to‑day lab operations: prepare work areas, manage consumables and raw‑material stock, arrange equipment calibration/servicing, and uphold 5S standards for cleanliness and safety.
Run tests and collect data: carry out product application trials, performance testing, and materials characterisation (e.g., FTIR, gas chromatography), recording results accurately and sharing insights with the team.
Contribute to formulation & synthesis: assist with small‑molecule and polymer synthesis projects, following agreed experimental designs and documenting methods, results, and learnings.
Improve how we work: identify opportunities that protect profit, improve operational efficiency, and enhance sustainability; contribute to continuous improvement actions across the lab.
Typical day / ways of working
You’ll start with lab checks and safety routines, review the plan with your mentor, prepare materials and equipment, execute tests or synthesis runs, and capture data. You’ll meet regularly with R&D chemists to interpret results and plan next steps, and you’ll collaborate with colleagues across production, QA, EHS, and supply chain to keep projects moving.
Training & development
Your apprenticeship blends academic study with real‑world lab work. You’ll build capability in experimental design, data analysis, project management, and scientific communication—progressing from supporting lab operations to independently planning and running experiments in the second half of the programme. Alongside technical skills, you’ll develop essential soft skills such as teamwork, adaptability, problem-solving, and effective communication. Regular collaboration with colleagues and mentors will help you build confidence, resilience, and a proactive approach to learning and contributing within a dynamic R&D environment.Training:
Apprentices work full-time whilst studying towards a BSc (Hons) Scientist (Chemical Science) degree from Manchester Metropolitan University, as well as a Level 6-degree apprenticeship
Students study a tutor-supported e-distance learning curriculum and attend residential schools. The work-based projects, negotiated with employers, offer students the opportunity to apply their learning directly to their organisation
The programme is primarily taught through tutor-supported online study, part-time over four years
Apprentices will attend a two-day induction at the University to help them get to know each other and balance undergraduate study with working full-time
They will also attend a week-long residential at our campus in central Manchester once a year, in addition to a two-day mini-residential in the first year
Training Outcome:The possibility to be a R&D Graduate Chemist.Employer Description:At Incorez, our sole purpose is to make a real difference to the performance of our customers products. We started out in 1986. Back then, we were known as Industrial Copolymers Ltd, we changed our name in 2009 and have been expanding ever since. From our home in Preston, England we've grown to become a leading manufacturer of polyurethane and epoxy technology.Since 2009 we've been proud to be part of the Sika group, working in partnership with an outstanding international company with an exceptional reputation in the construction industry.
At the Preston site, Incorez has research and development facilities alongside the manufacturing plant.Working Hours :Monday - Friday between 8am-4pm, with a 30-minute lunch break.Skills: Communication skills,IT skills,Attention to detail,Organisation skills,Problem solving skills,Analytical skills,Logical,Team working,Listening skills....Read more...
