At a Glance
- Tasks: Join the Materials Characterisation Team to conduct hands-on laboratory experiments and solve real scientific problems.
- Company: Pfizer, a leading global pharmaceutical company dedicated to transforming lives.
- Benefits: Gain valuable lab experience, develop professional skills, and access training opportunities.
- Other info: Engage in community volunteering and networking opportunities while working in a dynamic team.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in medicine development while building your career in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Must be enrolled in a UK university degree with curiosity about materials science and good lab skills.
The predicted salary is between 23850 - 29150 £ per year.
Pfizer UK Undergraduate Programme 2027/2028
Global Technology, Engineering & Launch, Pfizer Global Supply
Undergraduate Placement Student – Materials Characterisation Team
Who can apply?
Applicants must be completing a placement as part of a degree course at a UK University, either through Year in Industry/Industrial Placement or Gap Year. Please note that we will only consider candidates who have applied by completing the Pfizer Placement Application Form. Candidates who do not complete and attach the application form will NOT be considered.
Are you curious about how medicines are made, excited by hands-on laboratory science, and keen to spend a year developing skills that could shape your future career? Join Pfizer’s Materials Characterisation Team and contribute to real scientific work that supports the development, manufacture and supply of medicines for patients around the world.
Department Overview
The Materials Characterisation Team helps Pfizer understand the materials used to make medicines. We investigate active ingredients, excipients, intermediates, finished products and packaging materials, using analytical science to answer important questions, solve manufacturing challenges, assess new suppliers and support Pfizer’s global supply network.
What will I do?
You will join a friendly and supportive team of scientists who use analytical science to solve real problems. From early in your placement, you will contribute to live project work, learn how to plan and carry out laboratory experiments, interpret data and communicate your findings. You may also have the opportunity to lead or contribute to a research project, including evaluating new technologies or improving how we work.
During the placement, you will gain hands-on experience in a professional laboratory environment, build confidence working with scientific data and develop skills that will support both your degree and your future career.
Key responsibilities:
- Plan and carry out laboratory experiments with guidance from experienced scientists.
- Analyse and interpret results, then share your findings through presentations, discussions and technical reports.
- Support live Materials Characterisation projects that help Pfizer understand and solve manufacturing, product and supply challenges.
- Help maintain a safe, organised and efficient laboratory environment, including 5S and lean lab activities.
What will I gain?
- Build confidence presenting scientific data to your team and colleagues across the site.
- Develop technical writing skills by contributing to reports and clear scientific summaries.
- Learn how science supports medicine development, manufacturing and supply in a global pharmaceutical company.
- Access training and support to help you grow your scientific, professional and personal skills.
- Get involved in wider Pfizer activities, including community volunteering, STEM outreach and undergraduate networking opportunities.
When can I start?
Placements will start on 1st September 2027 and will run for 12 months.
Person Specification:
- Completing a placement as part of a degree course at a UK university, either through a Year in Industry, Industrial Placement or Gap Year.
- Curiosity about materials science, analytical chemistry, pharmaceutical science or how medicines are made, with good laboratory skills and attention to detail.
- An innovative and creative approach to problem solving.
- Willingness to learn, ask questions and develop new scientific and professional skills.
- Enthusiasm, reliability and a positive approach to working as part of a team.
- Ability to manage tasks, stay organised and take ownership of your work.
How to apply
This position will close for applications on 18th October 2026. Please note that we only accept completed Pfizer Placement Application Forms. CVs and cover letters will not be considered.
Work Location Assignment: On Premise
Purpose
Breakthroughs that change patients' lives... At Pfizer we are a patient centric company, guided by our four values: courage, joy, equity and excellence. Our breakthrough culture lends itself to our dedication to transforming millions of lives.
Flexibility
We aim to create a trusting, flexible workplace culture which encourages employees to achieve work life harmony, attracts talent and enables everyone to be their best working self.
Equal Employment Opportunity
We believe that a diverse and inclusive workforce is crucial to building a successful business. As an employer, Pfizer is committed to celebrating this, in all its forms – allowing for us to be as diverse as the patients and communities we serve.
DisAbility Confident
We are proud to be a Disability Confident Employer and we encourage you to put your best self forward with the knowledge and trust that we will make any reasonable adjustments necessary to support your application and future career.
Materials Characterisation Team Undergraduate in Sandwich employer: Pfizer
At Pfizer, we pride ourselves on being an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee well-being and professional growth. Our hybrid work model fosters flexibility, allowing you to balance your personal and professional life while contributing to groundbreaking advancements in healthcare. With a commitment to diversity and a focus on empowering our employees, you'll find meaningful opportunities to make a real impact in the lives of patients around the world.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Materials Characterisation Team Undergraduate in Sandwich
✨Unlock Networking Opportunities
Dive into industry-specific events like pharmaceutical conferences and seminars, where you can meet hiring managers from companies like Pfizer. These are goldmines for making connections and learning about job openings before they hit the mainstream job boards.
✨Join Relevant Professional Bodies
Get involved with organisations such as the Royal Pharmaceutical Society or your local pharmaceutical professionals' network. Being an active member can boost your credibility and may even lead to job referrals in top organisations like Pfizer.
✨Leverage Internships for Full-time Roles
If you can, consider pursuing internships in the pharmaceutical industry, especially with companies like Pfizer. These opportunities often pave the way for full-time positions and allow you to demonstrate your capabilities firsthand.
✨Tailor Your Approach
When you're applying for roles, don't rush it! Take the time to customise your applications for specific positions, showcasing relevant skills and experiences that align with what Pfizer is looking for. A tailored application can really make you stand out!
We think you need these skills to ace Materials Characterisation Team Undergraduate in Sandwich
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Experience:When applying for a role in the pharmaceutical industry, it's crucial to highlight any relevant experience you have. Whether that's internships, lab work, or even related coursework, make sure to weave this into your CV and cover letter. We want to see how your background aligns with the role you're applying for at Pfizer!
Emphasise Your Understanding of Regulations:The pharmaceutical industry is heavily regulated, so it's important to indicate your familiarity with industry standards and regulations. In your cover letter, mention any training or certifications you've received that are relevant, or discuss projects where you’ve navigated compliance. This will show Pfizer that you're not just a fit for the job but also a safety-conscious candidate!
Tailor Your CV to Be Result-Driven:Craft your CV to highlight quantifiable achievements, especially if you have previous roles in pharmaceuticals or related fields. Use metrics to demonstrate your impact, such as improved processing times or successful project completions while working on trials. This analytical approach will resonate well with hiring managers at Pfizer!
Convey Your Passion for the Industry:In your cover letter, express why you are passionate about working in the pharmaceutical sector. Whether it’s your desire to contribute to groundbreaking drug research or improve patient outcomes, let it shine through! At Pfizer, we value candidates who are truly enthusiastic about their work—you might just stand out from the crowd.
How to prepare for a job interview at Pfizer
✨Understand the Science
Make sure you brush up on key pharmaceutical concepts and recent developments in the industry. You might get asked some technical questions during the interview at Pfizer that show your grasp of drug development processes or regulatory requirements, so be ready to discuss them clearly.
✨Showcase Relevant Experience
If you have any hands-on experience or internships in a laboratory setting, be sure to highlight these in your responses. Think about the projects you worked on, the methodologies you used, and the impact you made. It's all about telling a story that connects your background to the role you're applying for.
✨Know Their Products
Take some time to familiarise yourself with Pfizer’s product range and recent breakthroughs. Understanding their portfolio not only shows your enthusiasm for the role but also allows you to ask insightful questions that demonstrate your interest in actively contributing to their projects.
✨Be Ready for Regulatory Scenarios
In a full-time pharmaceutical role, understanding the regulatory landscape is crucial. Prepare for situational questions that may test your problem-solving skills concerning compliance and safety standards. You could be asked how you'd handle a hypothetical issue regarding a drug’s market release, so think through your approach.
