12 Month University Industrial Placement Student: QC Automation Technician

Biopharma Careers; Macclesfield; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 31,000; Full time

Job summary

AstraZeneca in Macclesfield is offering a 12-month University Industrial Placement for a QC Automation Technician. The placement supports the Analytical Technical Team within Quality Control to explore automation, AI and data analysis to improve productivity and efficiency.

You will work on a proof-of-concept project, plan and execute feasibility studies, engage with stakeholders and document progress while gaining hands-on experience in a global biopharmaceutical setting.

Qualifications

• Undergraduate or integrated master's degree in Science, IT, Data Science or Engineering, with a 1-year industry placement starting September 2027.
• Understanding of a Quality function and its role in the pharma business.
• Proactive team player with ownership and data-driven decision making.
• IT literate with interest in new technology and its practical business applications.

Responsibilities

• Look for creative solutions to improve productivity, sustainability and efficiency in the QC laboratory.
• Plan and execute a “proof of concept” or feasibility study of your own design, to support key strategic improvements.
• Utilise project management tools for implementing the study.
• Leverage problem solving tools to overcome challenges and optimise performance.
• Engage with key stakeholders and provide regular updates on progress.

Skills

STEM degree

Quality awareness

Team collaboration

IT literacy

Education

Undergraduate or integrated Master’s in Science/IT/Data Science/Engineering

Job description

12 Month University Industrial Placement Student (UIPS): QC Automation Technician

Macclesfield, UK

£28,000 Base Salary, Bonus & Flexible Benefits

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 University Industrial Placement Student (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.

About the Opportunity:

An exciting opportunity to be part of the Analytical Technical Team within a busy Quality Control function, which ensures analytical methodology, instrumentation and associated systems are validated and maintained in a permanent state of readiness. We already use several types of automation but are always looking for new opportunities to exploit new technology, AI and data analysis to improve the productivity, sustainability and efficiency of our QC laboratories.

What you'll do as part of the QC Technical Team:

• Look for creative solutions to improve productivity, sustainability and efficiency in the QC laboratory.
• Plan and execute a “proof of concept” or feasibility study of your own design, to support key strategic improvements.
• Utilise project management tools for implementing the study.
• Leverage problem solving tools to overcome challenges and optimise performance.
• Engage with key stakeholders and provide regular updates on progress.

Qualification, Skills & Experience

Required:

• Currently undertaking an undergraduate or integrated master’s degree in Science, IT, Data Science or Engineering, with the opportunity to spend 1 year in industry starting in September 2027
• Have an understanding of a Quality function, and its role and importance to the wider pharmaceutical business.
• Be a proactive team player, willing to take ownership and make effective, timely and data-driven decisions.
• IT literate with a passion for keeping track of new technology and its practical application to the commercial environment

Applications Open: 4th September 2026

Applications Close: 2nd October 2026

Assessment Day: 17th November 2026

Start Date: 6th September 2027

This position is a 12-month fixed term contract.

AstraZeneca is proud to be ranked as a Top 100 ‘Best Student Employer’ in the UK by RateMyPlacement. Browse our reviews here ( link )

AstraZeneca embraces diversity and equality of opportunity. We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse team representing all backgrounds, with as wide a range of perspectives as possible, and harnessing industry-leading skills. We believe that the more inclusive we are, the better our work is. We welcome and consider applications to join our team from all qualified candidates, regardless of their characteristics. We comply with all applicable laws and regulations on non-discrimination in employment (and recruitment), as well as work authorization and employment eligibility verification requirements.

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.

Date Posted

04-Sept-2026

Closing Date

02-Oct-2026