Synthetic Organic Chemistry Summer Internship

About AstraZeneca

AstraZeneca is a global, science-led biopharmaceutical business and its innovative medicines are used by millions of patients worldwide. AstraZeneca has long been an advocate of student work placement training. These placements immerse students in the pharmaceutical industry, allowing the opportunity to contribute to our diverse pipeline of medicines whether in the lab or outside of it. You will feel trusted and empowered to take on new challenges, but with all the help and guidance you need to succeed. At AstraZeneca, you will engage in meaningful work within a pioneering research and development organization. This placement will help you develop essential skills, expand your knowledge, and build a network that will set you up for future success. You will be surrounded by curious, passionate, and open-minded professionals eager to learn and follow the science, fostering your growth in a truly collaborative and global team.

Introduction to the role:

We are seeking a highly motivated individual willing to join one of the world’s leading pharmaceutical companies for a summer internship.

This is a 10-week paid placement in Cambridge, UK starting around the 1st of July 2025.

Accountabilities:

The candidate will join one of our Synthetic Chemistry teams within the Oncology Medicinal Chemistry Department and will be involved in research activities focused on the synthesis of novel molecules or developing cutting-edge synthetic methodology. The purpose of these activities is to support our medicinal chemistry design efforts to discover, synthesise and optimise new drugs in the oncology therapeutic area.

Examples of tasks the individual may conduct during the internship are:

Synthesis and purification of novel molecules using state of the art equipment and techniques Interpretation of analytical data Write up of experimental and manuscript for publication

The placement will aim to provide candidates with an opportunity to gain knowledge of, or experience in:

Modern, practical synthetic, analytical and purification skills Techniques for structural and conformational analysis of novel molecules Introduction to medicinal chemistry concepts Insight into current drug discovery Working within a team

Essential Skills/Experience

Applicants must currently be undergraduates (in third year or above) or graduates, with their degree being in chemistry or biochemistry Candidates should have good knowledge of organic chemistry and purification techniques Previous industrial or academic work experience in an organic synthesis laboratory preferred Candidates will have familiarity with the MS Windows environment, and Microsoft Office.

AstraZeneca is where you can immerse yourself in ground breaking work with real patient impact. Trusted to work on important projects, you’ll have the independence to take on new challenges while receiving all the guidance you need to succeed. Our collaborative environment is designed to help you grow professionally and personally, surrounded by passionate individuals eager to make a difference.

Additional Information:

Please submit a CV and cover letter:

In your cover letter please answer the following:

• Give any details of scholarships, awards, or prizes you have gained

• List your awarded/predicted grades from your School/University degree - including breakdown of module marks received

• Please describe any work experience, extracurricular activities and interests

Applications are now open until 4th March 2025.

Virtual interviews will be scheduled between 31st March - 18th April.

Start date around 1st July and you can expect to hear from us by the end of March 2025.

Our mission is to build an inclusive and equitable environment. We want people to feel they belong at AstraZeneca, 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.

Ready to make an impact? Apply now and join us on this exciting journey!

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 will be. 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 authorisation and employment eligibility verification requirements.