At a Glance
- Tasks: Support quality initiatives and contribute to impactful projects in a collaborative environment.
- Company: Join AstraZeneca, a leader in biopharmaceuticals focused on patient-centred innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, flexible benefits, and a supportive network.
- Other info: Be part of an inclusive team with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience while making a real difference in patients' lives.
- Qualifications: Pursuing a life sciences degree with strong data analytics skills.
The predicted salary is between 28000 - 28000 £ per year.
2 St Pancras Square, London, UK
£28,000 Base Salary, Bonus & Flexible Benefits
About Alexion & AstraZeneca: AstraZeneca is a global, science-led, patient-centred biopharmaceutical company focused on the discovery, development and commercialisation of prescription medicines for some of the world’s most serious diseases. Alexion is a leader in rare diseases, advancing innovative science to address unmet patient needs. Working alongside dedicated colleagues, you will gain hands‑on experience and contribute to projects that have a meaningful impact on patients’ lives.
About the University Industrial Placement Student (UIPS) Programme at Alexion & AstraZeneca: As a placement student, there is a huge network of support available to you. You’ll have a dedicated supervisor, a supportive early talent peer network, and a variety of Employee Resource Groups you can join. We help and empower each other, and our supervisors are committed to providing you with all the guidance and support you need to build your skills, confidence and capabilities. Whatever your background and experience, you'll be welcomed and encouraged to speak up, ask questions and share knowledge. You will be a valued part of an international team of truly supportive, collaborative and inclusive individuals.
About your role in Country Regulatory & Quality Affairs (CRQA): As part of UK Country Regulatory & Quality Affairs (CRQA), you will help strengthen the quality culture across the UK affiliate. You will contribute to learning initiatives, promote a quality-focused approach and support ongoing balanced continuous improvement. Working collaboratively with CRQA, Global Regulatory Affairs (GRA), Quality Business Partners (QBPs) and other Quality colleagues, you will support key process improvements and help define and deliver the strategic roadmap for the UK affiliate.
Programme Highlights:
- Develop the skills to think critically, solve complex challenges creatively, and contribute innovative ideas.
- Gain insight into our Business Unit strategies and learn how projects and programmes play a vital role in achieving both short- and long‑term objectives.
- Work closely with cross‑functional teams and provide hands‑on support across key strategic and global initiatives, from initiation to close‑out.
- Track progress and use standard project management practices to support efficient delivery.
- Support the development of an Operational Excellence approach within CRQA to showcase standard processes and establish a continuous improvement network.
- Provide supervised administrative and coordination support to the Quality Manager and the wider UK & Ireland Quality team, including maintaining quality records, trackers and shared files relating to training, deviations, corrective and preventive actions, change controls, supplier activities and other quality actions.
- Support document control, training compliance, Quality Management Review, self‑inspection and audit‑readiness activities by formatting and proofreading documents, checking metadata, monitoring completion data, organising evidence, preparing reports and meeting materials, and accurately recording actions and due dates.
- Use Microsoft 365 tools to analyse information, maintain dashboards and present clear, accurate summaries.
- Participate expertly in team meetings and cross‑functional projects, promptly raise concerns or potential compliance issues, complete all assigned training, and deliver a defined improvement project in accordance with applicable procedures, data integrity principles, confidentiality requirements and company policies.
Qualifications, Skills & Experience
Essential:
- Currently undertaking an undergraduate or integrated master’s degree in a life sciences subject and able to complete a 6–9-month industry placement starting in early 2027.
- Strong working knowledge of data analytics, with experience using data to generate insights and inform decision‑making.
- Solid understanding of and experience with the Microsoft Office suite, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Teams and Forms.
- A professional attitude and a proactive, can‑do approach.
- Confidence in building relationships and working collaboratively with colleagues from different teams and subject areas.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Awareness of artificial intelligence and an understanding of its practical applications.
Desirable:
- Advanced Microsoft Excel skills.
- Experience interpreting data and presenting findings clearly.
- Experience working in teams, whether in an educational, employment, volunteering or extracurricular setting.
Why Alexion & AstraZeneca? When we see an opportunity for change, we seize it and make it happen. Any opportunity, no matter how small, can be the start of something big. Delivering life‑changing medicines means being entrepreneurial—recognising those moments and realising their potential. Join us as we build a new kind of organisation and reset expectations of what a biopharmaceutical company can be. We are opening up new ways of working, pioneering innovative methods and bringing unexpected teams together.
Interested? Come and join our journey.
Applications Open: 25 September 2026
Applications Close: Midnight on 23 October 2026
Virtual Assessment Day: Late November 2026
Start Date: Early 2027
This position is a 6–9-month fixed-term contract.
Date Posted: 25-Sept-2026
Closing Date: 23-Oct-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.
6–9-Month University Industrial Placement Student (UIPS): Country Regulatory & Quality Affairs (CRQA) employer: Alexion
At Alexion, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a collaborative work culture that prioritises employee growth and development. Our team is dedicated to making a meaningful impact in the field of rare diseases, providing unique opportunities for professional advancement while fostering a supportive environment that values innovation and patient care.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land 6–9-Month University Industrial Placement Student (UIPS): Country Regulatory & Quality Affairs (CRQA)
✨Get Stuck into Biotech Events!
Jump into industry-specific events like conferences, workshops, and networking meetups in biotechnology. These are fantastic places to chat with professionals, get insights into current trends, and even meet folks from companies like Alexion who might be offering placements.
✨Leverage Your Uni’s Career Services
Don’t forget about your university’s career services! Many have connections with biotech firms and can help you find placement opportunities or set you up for internships. It's a great way to get your foot in the door at Alexion.
✨Show Off Your Lab Skills
Whether you’ve done research or had lab experience, make sure to highlight these skills in conversations. Be ready to share specific projects you’ve worked on that relate to what Alexion does in the biotech sector—don’t hold back!
✨Apply Early, Apply Often
Placement spots can fill up quickly, so make sure you’re on the ball. Check Alexion’s website frequently and apply as soon as you see something that catches your eye. We all know how crucial getting that early application in can be!
We think you need these skills to ace 6–9-Month University Industrial Placement Student (UIPS): Country Regulatory & Quality Affairs (CRQA)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Laboratory Skills!:In the biotech field, it's essential to highlight any lab experience you've had. Make sure to mention specific techniques or equipment you're familiar with on your CV. If you've done any projects, whether in school or elsewhere, don't forget to detail them in your application—this'll really catch our attention!
Tailor Your Cover Letter to Your Passion for Biotechnology:When we read your cover letter, we want to feel your enthusiasm for the biotech field! Share why this placement at Alexion excites you and how it aligns with your career goals. Talk about what you hope to learn and how you can contribute—show us that you're a passionate and motivated applicant!
Highlight Relevant Coursework and Certifications:Mention any relevant biotech courses, workshops, or certifications you've completed. This will not only show your academic background but also your dedication to the field. Include grades or projects that demonstrate your knowledge, and don't shy away from talking about any team collaborations or problem-solving experiences!
Be Clear About Your Availability:Since this is a placement, make sure you outline your availability in your application. Specify when you're able to start and how many hours you can commit each week. This will help us see how you fit into our schedule at Alexion and allows us to plan effectively for your potential contributions.
How to prepare for a job interview at Alexion
✨Brush Up on Your Lab Skills
Since we're diving into biotechnology, make sure you’re up to speed with essential lab techniques like PCR, gel electrophoresis, and cell culture. Be prepared to discuss your hands-on experience with these methods, as the interviewers at Alexion will likely want to see how well you can apply your knowledge in a practical setting.
✨Know Your Current Trends
Biotechnology is a rapidly evolving field, so it's important to have a grasp of the latest advancements and technologies. Familiarise yourself with recent breakthroughs or ongoing research relevant to Alexion. This shows your passion for the field and readiness to contribute to innovative projects during your placement.
✨Show Your Willingness to Learn
As this is a placement, highlight your eagerness to learn new techniques and concepts. Be ready to discuss how you're open to feedback and growth. Interviewers at Alexion will appreciate someone who is not just knowledgeable but also adaptable and keen to develop in the field.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect some technical questions relevant to biotechnology principles. Review basic concepts such as genetic engineering, bioinformatics, and bioprocessing. This will help us demonstrate our understanding of the core principles that drive the work done at Alexion, making us a more attractive candidate for the placement.
