Gael from Biological Sciences

• • Biological sciences

  • Gael
  • Afshan
  • Darren
  • Kevin
  • Adrian

I joined AstraZeneca after graduating from Glasgow University with a degree in Microbiology.  As part of my degree I spent a year working within the pharmaceutical industry and had been impressed by the opportunities that were available to new graduates so was keen to stay in the industry.

"There are many opportunities to broaden your knowledge, and self-development is seen as important" Gael

After completing an on-line application form there were two rounds of interviews which included a tour around the Alderley Park site and meetings with recent graduates and other members of staff.  At these interviews I got a real feeling of what working at AstraZeneca would be like.  Before starting in September there was also an induction day where I was able to meet people who would be following the same training programme.

For my first three months I took part in a variety of training modules ranging from molecular biology to heath and safety.  These modules enabled me to make a variety of contacts within the company who have helped me in my current project.  

I am now working within Research and Development Genetics. Our main aim is to apply human genetics to the drug discovery and development projects throughout the company.  My current role within the department is to develop and implement new technologies which will enable more information to be collected on genes that are of interest to the company.  I have been involved with the trialling and purchasing of new pieces of equipment, dealing with external company representatives and have recently travelled to Sweden to work with our collaborators and learn more about a relevant assay.

There are many opportunities to broaden your knowledge, and self-development is seen as important.  I have attended many training courses, technical and non-technical, that have helped me in my day to day work.   There are also plenty of less work related activities available.  There are a variety of foreign languages courses and I have recently volunteered for Educational Liaison, a scheme in which scientists are able to provide a link between the company and Primary/Secondary schools

I have enjoyed my first eight months at AstraZeneca and although I was initially daunted by the fact that I am working in an area that differs from my degree subject I have found that people are always happy to take time out to explain things.  I feel that AstraZeneca will provide me with every opportunity to develop both professionally and personally to provide me with a fulfilling career.