Pharmaceutical Technology & Development Graduate Programme - UK

AstraZeneca; Macclesfield; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A global biopharmaceutical company is seeking graduates for its Pharmaceutical Technology & Development Graduate Programme in Macclesfield. Over two years, candidates will support product lifecycles while working on innovative pharmaceutical technologies. Applicants must hold a relevant degree and exhibit problem-solving skills. This opportunity fosters professional growth in a collaborative environment, emphasizing scientific advancement and making a significant impact on patient lives. Apply now to start your journey with us!

Benefits

Competitive salary and benefits

Hands-on experience with industry experts

Opportunities for professional growth

Qualifications

• Graduates must have completed their degree in 2025 or be due to graduate by September 2026 with a 2:1 or higher.
• Passion for science and innovation is essential.
• Must demonstrate excellent organizational skills.

Responsibilities

• Support the design and development of pharmaceutical products.
• Contribute to the product lifecycle from design to clinical supply.
• Work alongside teams to tackle scientific challenges.

Skills

Proactive problem solving

Critical thinking

Planning and time management

Collaborative teamwork

Education

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Chemistry, Pharmacy, Engineering, Data Science, or related fields

Job description

Pharmaceutical Technology & Development Graduate Programme - UK

Location: Macclesfield, UK

Competitive salary and benefits

Are you ready to make a difference? Our graduate programme is designed for ambitious individuals eager to kickstart their careers. You’ll gain hands‑on experience, work alongside industry experts, and contribute to ground‑breaking research that changes lives.

About AstraZeneca:

AstraZeneca is a global, science‑led, patient‑centred biopharmaceutical company focusing on discovering, developing, and commercialising prescription medicines for some of the world’s most serious diseases. But we’re more than a global leading pharmaceutical company. At AstraZeneca, we’re dedicated to being a Great Place to Work and empowering employees to push the boundaries of science and fuel their entrepreneurial spirit.

About the programme:

At the forefront of innovation in pharmaceutical science, our Pharmaceutical Technology & Development (PT&D) Graduate Programme is designed for those who are curious, proactive, and eager to make a meaningful impact. Starting in September 2026, this two‑year program includes three eight‑month placements, each offering valuable insights into pharmaceutical technology and the entire product lifecycle. You’ll deepen your knowledge in medicine design and development, commercialisation, and patient supply—all while contributing to advancements that matter.

In PT&D, we transform molecules into medicines, guiding them from early phases to clinical supply. You’ll play a key role in supporting the design and development of innovative products and manufacturing processes that positively impact patients’ lives. By leveraging your technical expertise and creative thinking, you’ll tackle new scientific challenges alongside teams dedicated to delivering sustainable and impactful medicines. Join us in inspiring change, embedding sustainability, and participate in our exciting digital transformation!

The programme offers a diverse and flexible structure, providing unique opportunities to develop a broad skill set in different technical skills and develop your leadership capabilities. You can tailor your experience with a variety of laboratory‑based placements but can also select placements in areas including computational modelling, product and device development, data science, and project management.

Essential Skills/Experience

• Graduates in Chemistry, Pharmacy/Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemical/Mechanical/Device Engineering, Physics, Data Science, Biosciences or related subjects, who have completed their Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in 2025, or are due to graduate by September 2026 with a 2:1 or higher or equivalent grading.

• Innovators whose passion matches their scientific expertise.

• Confidence and desire to embrace new challenges and work situations with ease.

• Proactive problem solving and critical thinking skills.

• Excellent planning, organisational and time management skills.

• Collaborative, with a partnership approach to achieving success.

You will be based in Macclesfield throughout the duration of the two years; we do not offer international placements on this programme.

At AstraZeneca, we are united by a common purpose – to push the boundaries of science. This purpose underpins everything we do; our work helps to make hearts healthier, helps people breathe easier, and helps more people survive cancer. Every day, we make a difference by delivering potentially life‑changing medicines to millions of people worldwide and by leading breakthrough science that promises to transform the treatment of disease. Our dynamic culture celebrates diverse thinking and encourages creativity and collaboration. We invest in our people’s personal and professional development, ensuring they have the support needed to thrive in a fast‑paced environment.

Ready to make an impact? Apply now and start your journey with AstraZeneca!

• Advert Opens: Monday 8 December 2025

• Advert Closes: Sunday 4 January 2026

Date Posted

08-Dec-2025

Closing Date

04-Jan-2026

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.