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- Tasks: Join a team to develop new drug candidates in synthetic organic chemistry.
- Company: AstraZeneca is a leading biopharmaceutical company focused on innovative medicines.
- Benefits: Enjoy a £26,000 salary, bonuses, flexible benefits, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Gain hands-on experience, enhance your skills, and be part of a collaborative international team.
- Qualifications: Must be an undergraduate chemistry student available for a 12-month placement starting September 2026.
- Other info: Applications open on 1st September 2025; don't miss your chance!
The predicted salary is between 20800 - 36400 £ per year.
Overview
12 Month University Industrial Placement Student (UIPS): Synthetic – Organic Chemistry
Cambridge & Macclesfield, UK
£26,000 Base Salary, Bonus & Flexible Benefits
Do you want to be part of a team of supportive, collaborative and likeminded peers to develop your expertise? Then Astra Zeneca might be the one for you!
About AstraZeneca
AstraZeneca is a global, science-led, patient-centred biopharmaceutical company that focuses on the discovery, development and commercialization of prescription medicines for some of the world’s most serious disease. But we’re more than a global leading pharmaceutical company. At AstraZeneca, we‘re dedicated to being a Great Place to Work where you are empowered to push the boundaries of science and fuel your entrepreneurial spirit. There’s no better place to make a difference to medicine, patients and society.
About the UIPS Programme
Join a Truly Inclusive and Supportive International Team.
As an AstraZeneca 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.
Are you ready to explore this exciting next step in your career? Apply today!
Opportunity
We are looking to recruit for 12 Month Industrial Placements in Synthetic Organic Chemistry across sites in Cambridge and Macclesfield in the UK. At each location the placement will be focused on synthetic organic chemistry working as part of a team to deliver new potential drug candidates to help patients.
The placements will provide you with the opportunity to learn about organic synthesis, purification, reaction monitoring, automation techniques, bio-catalysis, crystallisation and physical organic chemistry. You will also have the opportunity to present your work to other chemists and wider teams that will enhance your communication skills which will all help you to develop a range of transferable skills as well as promoting and extending your proficiency as a chemist.
Roles based in Cambridge will work with medicinal chemists to develop novel multi-step synthetic routes to a range of new compounds to enable testing of these compounds as potential drug candidates.
Roles based in Macclesfield will work with process development chemists to develop safe, sustainable and economical synthetic routes that are capable of manufacturing kilogram quantities of potential drug candidates.
Qualifications & Experience
Required:
- Currently undertaking an Undergraduate Chemistry Degree with the opportunity to spend 1 year in industry starting in September 2026
- Where possible, please list your course modules including any results obtained within your application.
- To support your application, please highlight any scholarships, publications, lab experience or extracurricular activity demonstrating leadership and teamwork you may have within a cover letter
Timeline
Applications Open: 1st September 2025
Applications Close: Midnight 28th September 2025
Virtual Assessment Day: 4th and 5th November 2025
Start Date: 7th September 2026
This position is a 12-month fixed term contract.
Where to find out more
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/1603/
Inclusion & Diversity: https://careers.astrazeneca.com/inclusion-diversity
Career Site: https://careers.astrazeneca.com/
AstraZeneca is proud to be ranked as a Top 100 ‘Best Student Employer’ in the UK by RateMyPlacement. Browse our reviews here (link)
Date posted and contact
Date Posted
01-Sept-2025
Closing Date
28-Sept-2025
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.
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12 Month University Industrial Placement Student (UIPS): Synthetic - Organic Chemistry employer: AstraZeneca
Contact Detail:
AstraZeneca Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land 12 Month University Industrial Placement Student (UIPS): Synthetic - Organic Chemistry
✨Tip Number 1
Network with current or former placement students at AstraZeneca. They can provide valuable insights into the application process and what to expect during your placement, helping you tailor your approach.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in synthetic organic chemistry. Being knowledgeable about recent advancements can help you stand out during interviews and discussions with potential colleagues.
✨Tip Number 3
Engage with AstraZeneca's social media channels and attend any virtual events they host. This will not only keep you informed about the company culture but also show your genuine interest in their work.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for the virtual assessment day by practising common interview questions and situational tasks related to teamwork and problem-solving. This will help you demonstrate your skills effectively during the selection process.
We think you need these skills to ace 12 Month University Industrial Placement Student (UIPS): Synthetic - Organic Chemistry
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the specific requirements and responsibilities of the placement. Tailor your application to highlight relevant skills and experiences that align with the role in Synthetic Organic Chemistry.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV and cover letter, emphasise any lab experience, coursework, or projects related to organic chemistry. Mention any scholarships, publications, or extracurricular activities that demonstrate your leadership and teamwork abilities.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that not only outlines your qualifications but also expresses your enthusiasm for the role and AstraZeneca's mission. Make sure to connect your personal goals with the company's values and objectives.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in the scientific field.
How to prepare for a job interview at AstraZeneca
✨Know Your Chemistry
Brush up on your knowledge of synthetic organic chemistry. Be prepared to discuss specific techniques you've learned during your studies, such as reaction monitoring and crystallisation, as these will be relevant to the role.
✨Showcase Your Teamwork Skills
AstraZeneca values collaboration, so be ready to share examples of how you've worked effectively in teams. Highlight any group projects or lab experiences where you contributed to a common goal.
✨Prepare Questions
Demonstrate your interest in the company and the role by preparing thoughtful questions. Ask about the team dynamics, the types of projects you might work on, or opportunities for professional development.
✨Highlight Your Extracurricular Activities
Mention any leadership roles or extracurricular activities that showcase your initiative and teamwork. This can help set you apart from other candidates and show your well-rounded character.
