R&D Graduate Programme – Chemistry

Are you ready to take your career to the next level? The AstraZeneca Research & Development (R&D) Chemistry Graduate Programme is your gateway to a future in ground-breaking scientific research and drug development. If you hold a Chemistry or Life Science-based bachelor’s or master’s degree and are eager to unleash your scientific potential, this is your opportunity to work at the forefront of innovation and make a real-world impact. 

About AstraZeneca 

AstraZeneca is a global, science-led, patient-focused biopharmaceutical company dedicated to the discovery, development, and commercialization of prescription medicines for some of the world’s most serious diseases. We genuinely follow the science and value individuals at all levels, encouraging continuous learning and exploration to unlock the power of what science can do. 

About the opportunity: 

The AstraZeneca R&D Chemistry Graduate Programme is a two-year opportunity for graduates seeking a unique chance to accelerate their careers. Through three eight-month placements, you'll gain hands-on experience in drug discovery and development, working across various functions and therapy areas. You’ll develop technical skills, expand your scientific knowledge, and receive mentorship from industry experts. 

Programme Details:

• Start Date: September 2025 
• Duration: 2 years 
• Structure: Three individual eight-month placements 
• Focus Areas: Organic synthetic chemistry, formulation, analytical chemistry, and computational modelling. 

What You’ll Gain:

• Hands-On Experience: Participate in diverse R&D projects and gain insights into drug discovery and development. 
• Professional Growth: Benefit from mentorship and support from a dedicated management team and expand your network with industry experts.  
• Skill Development: Enhance your technical skills and knowledge across various scientific disciplines and stages of the drug discovery process. 

Requirements:

• Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Chemistry (2:1 UK / GPA 3 US / VG Grade Sweden or equivalent), awarded in 2024 or before September 2025. 
• Knowledge: Strong understanding of organic synthesis. 
• Skills: Proactive problem-solving, critical thinking, excellent planning, organizational and time management abilities. 
• Attributes: Passionate about drug discovery, team-focused, and driven to make a difference. 

Placement Details:

• Lab-Based Placements: Opportunities focused on organic synthetic chemistry, formulation, and analytical chemistry. There are also in silico opportunities which involve the computational modelling and design of new compounds as well as wider opportunities across the R&D organization. 
• Flexibility: Various placements to choose from, with at least one lab-based placement required.  

Post-Programme Opportunities:

 Approximately 50% of graduates pursue a PhD, while others seek roles within AstraZeneca or elsewhere. Where will your journey take you?  

What’s next? 

• Assessment: After submitting your application, complete an online assessment (SHL). Shortlisted candidates will be invited to a full-day virtual assessment day.  

Key Dates: 

• Advert Opens: 2024-12-09 
• Advert Closes: 2025-01-26 
• Assessment Center Days: Tue/Wed/Thurs, Mar 18/19/20, 2025 

Are you ready to bring your skills, drive, and curiosity to our projects? We’d love to hear from you!  

Find Out More: 

Are you curious about what it’s like to work at AstraZeneca? Learn more here: https://careers.astrazeneca.com/life-at-astrazeneca

Learn more about the programme: https://careers.astrazeneca.com/r-and-d-graduate-programme

Moving to Gothenburg? Here is all the information you need: https://www.astrazeneca.se/om-oss/verksamheten-i-sverige/goteborg/relocate-to-gothenburg.html