Research and Development (R&D) Graduate programme – Chemistry – UK

Research and Development (R&D) Graduate programme – Chemistry – UK

Location: Cambridge

Salary: £35,600 plus benefits

Overview

Are you ready to take your career to the next level? The AstraZeneca Research & Development (R&D) Chemistry Graduate Programme is your gateway to a future in groundbreaking scientific research and drug development. If you hold a Chemistry focussed bachelor’s or master’s degree and are eager to unleash your scientific potential, this is your opportunity to work at the forefront of innovation and make a real-world impact.

About AstraZeneca

 AstraZeneca is a global, science-led, patient-focused biopharmaceutical company dedicated to the discovery, development, and commercialization of prescription medicines for some of the world’s most serious diseases. We genuinely follow the science and value individuals at all levels, encouraging continuous learning and exploration to unlock the power of what science can do.

About the opportunity:

The AstraZeneca R&D Chemistry Graduate Programme is a two-year opportunity for graduates seeking a unique chance to accelerate their careers. Through three eight-month placements, you'll gain hands-on experience in drug discovery and development, working across various functions and therapy areas. You’ll develop technical skills, expand your scientific knowledge, and receive mentorship from industry experts.

Programme Details

• Start Date: September 2026 

• Duration: 2 years 

• Structure: Three individual eight-month placements 

• Focus Areas: Organic synthetic chemistry, formulation, analytical chemistry, and computational modelling 

• Location: You will be based in Cambridge throughout the 2-year duration. No international placements are offered. 

What You’ll Gain

• Hands-On Experience: Engage in diverse R&D projects and gain insights into drug discovery and development. 

• Professional Growth: Receive mentorship and support from a dedicated management team and expand your network with industry experts. 

• Skill Development: Enhance your technical skills and knowledge across various scientific disciplines and stages of the drug discovery process. 

Requirements

• Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Chemistry (2:1 UK), awarded in 2025 or before September 2026. 

• Knowledge: Strong understanding of organic synthesis. 

• Skills: Proactive problem-solving, critical thinking, excellent planning, organizational and time management abilities. 

• Attributes: Passionate about drug discovery, team-focused, and driven to make a difference. 

Placement Details

• Lab-Based Placements: Opportunities focused on organic synthetic chemistry, formulation, and analytical chemistry. There are also in silico opportunities which involve the computational modelling and design of new compounds as well as wider opportunities across the R&D organization.  

• Flexibility: Various placements to choose from, with at least one lab-based placement required.   

Post-Programme Opportunities

Approximately 50% of graduates pursue a PhD, while others seek roles within AstraZeneca or elsewhere. Where will your journey take you?   

What's Next?

• Assessment: After submitting your application, you may be invited to complete an online assessment (SHL). Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a full-day virtual assessment day. 

Key Dates

• Advert Opens: Monday 8 December 2025 

• Advert Closes: Sunday 4 January 2026 

• Assessment Centre Days: Tuesday 10, Wednesday 11 & Thursday 12 March 2026  (no additional dates available)  

Are you ready to bring your skills, drive, and curiosity to our projects? We’d love to hear from you!

Find Out More

• Are you curious about what it’s like to work at AstraZeneca? Learn more here: https://careers.astrazeneca.com/life-at-astrazeneca

• Learn more about the programme: https://careers.astrazeneca.com/r-and-d-graduate-programme

Date Posted

08-Dec-2025

Closing Date

04-Jan-2026

Our mission is to build an inclusive and equitable environment. We want people to feel they belong at AstraZeneca and Alexion, starting with our recruitment process. We welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of characteristics. We offer reasonable adjustments/accommodations to help all candidates to perform at their best. If you have a need for any adjustments/accommodations, please complete the section in the application form.

AstraZeneca embraces diversity and equality of opportunity. We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse team representing all backgrounds, with as wide a range of perspectives as possible, and harnessing industry-leading skills. We believe that the more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. We welcome and consider applications to join our team from all qualified candidates, regardless of their characteristics. We comply with all applicable laws and regulations on non-discrimination in employment (and recruitment), as well as work authorisation and employment eligibility verification requirements.