R&D Graduate Programme – Bioscience

Are you ready to take your career to the next level? The AstraZeneca Research & Development (R&D) Bioscience Graduate Programme is your gateway to a future in ground-breaking scientific research and drug development. If you hold a Bioscience or Life Science-based 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 Bioscience Graduate Programme is a two-year opportunity for graduates seeking a unique chance to accelerate their career. 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 2025 
• Duration: 2 years 
• Structure: Three individual eight-month placements 
• Focus Areas: Drug discovery, development, and various therapy areas 

What You’ll Gain:

• Hands-On Experience: Participate in diverse R&D projects and gain insights into drug discovery and development. 
• Professional Growth: Receive mentorship, 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 any life science related subject (2:1 UK or local equivalent), awarded in 2024 or before September 2025. 
• 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 biology, biochemistry, pharmacology, and computational/bioinformatics projects. 
• 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? 

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

Key Dates: 

Advert Opens: 2024-12-09 

Advert Closes: 2025-01-26 

Assessment Center Days: Tue/Wed/Thurs, Mar 18/19/20, 2025 

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

Moving to Gothenburg? Here is all the information you need: https://www.astrazeneca.se/om-oss/verksamheten-i-sverige/goteborg/relocate-to-gothenburg.html

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.