Research and Development (R&D) Graduate programme - Chemistry - UK

ASTRAZENECA UK LIMITED; Hartford; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading biopharmaceutical company in the UK is seeking graduates for its Chemistry Graduate Programme. Ideal candidates should hold a relevant degree and be ready to engage in meaningful R&D projects focused on drug discovery and development. Responsibilities include lab‑based placements, with opportunities in organic synthetic chemistry and computational modelling. Join us to make a real impact in groundbreaking scientific research!

Qualifications

• Strong understanding of organic synthesis.
• Education awarded in 2025 or before September 2026.
• Passionate about drug discovery and team‑focused.

Responsibilities

• Engage in R&D projects focused on drug discovery.
• Participate in lab‑based placements in organic synthetic chemistry.
• Work on computational modelling and design of new compounds.

Skills

Proactive problem‑solving

Critical thinking

Planning and organizational skills

Time-management abilities

Education

Bachelor's or Master's degree in Chemistry

Job description

Core Experience

• Hands‑On Experience: Engage in diverse R&D projects and gain insights into drug discovery and development.
• Professional Growth: Receive 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), awarded in 2025 or before September 2026.
• 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.

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 groundbreaking scientific research and drug development. If you hold a Chemistry‑focused 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. Approximately 50% of graduates pursue a PhD, while others seek roles within AstraZeneca or elsewhere. Where will your journey take you?