At a Glance
- Tasks: Work on real projects in pharmaceutical regulatory affairs and learn how treatments are approved.
- Company: Join Sanofi, a leading biopharma company dedicated to improving lives through innovative science.
- Benefits: Paid placement, mentorship, hands-on experience, and networking opportunities.
- Other info: Hybrid working model with support from experienced professionals.
- Why this job: Kickstart your career in life sciences with real-world skills and professional growth.
- Qualifications: Open to Year 1 or Year 2 Life Sciences undergraduates with a curious mindset.
The predicted salary is between 20000 - 30000 £ per year.
Duration: 8 Weeks – 1 July 2026 – 31 Aug 2026
Working Model: Full-time, hybrid – 3 days in office
Assessment: Virtual Assessment (dates to be confirmed)
About The Role
Ready to take your first steps into the world of pharmaceutical regulatory affairs? This 8-week paid Summer Placement is designed for Year 1 or Year 2 Life Sciences undergraduates who are curious about the pharmaceutical industry and eager to develop real-world professional skills. You’ll join the UK & Ireland Regulatory Affairs team, where you’ll work on a real project, supported by a dedicated mentor. Along the way, you’ll build practical skills, grow your confidence, and get a behind‑the‑scenes look at how science becomes real treatments that help people every day.
What You’ll Be Doing
- Work on a real-life project that supports how medicines and vaccines are approved and maintained
- Learn how regulatory teams help bring treatments to patients safely and effectively
- Take part in training sessions to build your communication and professional skills
- Collaborate with people across different teams and learn how a global company operates
- Join team meetings, share your ideas, and ask questions along the way
- Track your progress with regular feedback and support from your mentor
What You’ll Gain
- Hands‑on experience in the pharmaceutical industry
- Support from experienced professionals who are invested in your growth
- The chance to build confidence in a professional environment
- Exposure to different career paths across the business
- A strong foundation for your future career in life sciences or healthcare
About You
This opportunity is designed for students who are at the beginning of their career journey. You don’t need previous work experience - what matters most is your mindset.
We’re Looking For Someone Who
- Is currently in Year 1 or Year 2 of a Life Sciences degree (e.g. Biology, Biochemistry, Pharmacy, Biomedical Science or related discipline)
- Is curious about science and how the pharmaceutical industry works
- Is open to learning new skills and trying new things
- Pays attention to detail and approaches tasks thoughtfully
- Feels comfortable communicating and is willing to keep developing this skill
- Takes initiative and brings a positive, proactive attitude
About Regulatory Affairs
Regulatory Affairs helps bring medicines from the lab to patients. The team makes sure every product is safe, approved, and ready to be used in the UK and Ireland. During this placement, you’ll get a clear, practical understanding of how pharmaceutical companies operate and how different teams work together to deliver treatments to patients.
About Sanofi
We're an R&D‑driven, AI‑powered biopharma company committed to improving people's lives and delivering compelling growth. Our deep understanding of the immune system – and innovative pipeline – enables us to invent medicines and vaccines that treat and protect millions of people around the world. Together, we chase the miracles of science to improve people's lives.
Why choose us?
- Learn by doing – contribute to real regulatory affairs projects from day one
- Be mentored – work alongside experienced specialists invested in your development
- Build your network – connect with professionals across Sanofi, including senior leaders
- Develop future‑ready skills – gain practical experience in a global biopharma environment
- Launch your career – with a company that invests in the next generation of pharmaceutical professionals
Regulatory Affairs Summer Placement employer: Sanofi
Sanofi is an exceptional employer for aspiring professionals in the pharmaceutical industry, offering a unique 8-week Summer Placement that combines hands-on experience with mentorship from seasoned experts. Located in a dynamic hybrid work environment, employees benefit from a culture of collaboration and continuous learning, ensuring they develop essential skills while contributing to meaningful projects that impact patient care. With a commitment to nurturing talent and fostering professional growth, Sanofi stands out as a place where you can launch your career in life sciences with confidence.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Regulatory Affairs Summer Placement
✨Explore Placement Opportunities Early
In the pharmaceutical industry, companies often start scouting for placement students way ahead of the academic year. So, don’t wait until the last minute! Keep an eye out for university partnerships with pharmaceutical companies, and hit up career fairs early to get your foot in the door.
✨Join Industry-Specific Groups
Get involved with organisations like the Royal Pharmaceutical Society or local student pharma societies. Not only will you learn loads from experts in the field, but you'll also have chances to network, which can lead to placements at companies like Sanofi.
✨Attend Events and Workshops
Look out for events like community talks, workshops, and networking evenings hosted by pharmaceutical firms. These events are golden opportunities to connect with professionals, showcase your passion for the industry, and possibly even grab a placement with companies that really catch your eye.
✨Get Hands-On Experience
Don’t shy away from extra-curricular activities related to pharmaceuticals, like volunteering for health awareness campaigns or internships at research labs. This hands-on experience makes you much more appealing to recruiters at companies like Sanofi, and gives you some solid stories to share in interviews.
We think you need these skills to ace Regulatory Affairs Summer Placement
Some tips for your application 🫡
Highlight Your Relevant Coursework:When applying for a placement in the pharmaceutical industry, make sure to emphasise any relevant coursework or projects on your CV. Showcase your understanding of drug development processes or pharmacology, and don't forget to mention any laboratory techniques you've mastered, like chromatography or spectroscopy. This will show that you’re already tuned into what the industry demands!
Tailored Personal Statement:In your cover letter, take the time to connect your academic background and experiences to what Sanofi does. Demonstrate genuine enthusiasm for their projects or values and explain how this placement fits into your career goals. We want to see your passion for pharmaceuticals, so make it personal and relevant!
Include Relevant Certifications:If you've completed any certifications, such as Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) or Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP), make sure to highlight them on your CV. These credentials are particularly impressive in the pharmaceutical industry and can set you apart from other candidates.
Focus on Soft Skills and Teamwork:While technical skills are crucial, don't shy away from showcasing your soft skills. Highlight teamwork, communication, and adaptability in your written application, especially if you've participated in group projects or labs. Pharmaceutical settings often require collaboration, so showing you're a team player will boost your chances!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sanofi
✨Know Your Pharma Stuff
Brush up on the latest trends and breakthroughs in the pharmaceutical industry. Be ready to discuss specific drugs, clinical trials, or even regulatory processes that are relevant to Sanofi. Your interviewers will appreciate your knowledge and passion for the field!
✨Show Off Your Lab Skills
If you're applying for a placement in pharmaceuticals, highlight any lab experience or relevant projects you've worked on. Whether it's using specific software like ChemDraw or conducting experiments, be prepared to discuss how your skills can contribute to Sanofi’s goals.
✨Be Open About Learning
As a placement candidate, they want to see your potential to grasp new concepts quickly. Be honest about what you've learned so far and express your eagerness to take on challenges during your time at Sanofi. Show them you're ready to grow!
✨Prepare for Behavioural Questions
Expect behavioural questions that examine your problem-solving skills and teamwork. Think of examples from your studies or past projects where you successfully worked with others or overcame obstacles. This will help demonstrate your fit for the collaborative nature of the pharmaceutical industry.
