Sara from Discovery Chemistry

• • Discovery chemistry

  • Matt - synthetic chemistry
  • Galith - synthetic chemistry
  • Theresa - synthetic chemistry
  • Richard - computational chemistry
  • Attilla - computational chemistry
  • Jon - medicinal chemistry
  • Sara - synthetic chemistry
  • Linette - physical chemistry
  • Julie - protein crystallographer
  • Matthew - physical chemistry
  • Chester - medicinal chemistry
  • Denise - synthetic chemistry
  • Hiroki - medicinal chemistry

I graduated from Leicester University with a M.Chem (Hons) Biological Chemistry degree. I applied for a position at Astra Zeneca whilst still at university through the graduate recruitment process. This involved a one hour first round technical interview, followed by a full day second round interview.

"The major advantage of working for Astra Zeneca is their commitment to developing their staff through continuous training and support" Sara

I work in a small project team of five people in Medicinal Chemistry, in the area known as Hit to Lead. This is at the beginning of the drug discovery process and aims to identify novel compounds that cause the desired affect on a specific biological target.  As a synthetic chemist the majority of my time is spent in the lab, synthesising the required compounds and employing various methods of purification and analysis.

My job also involves computer work and some of my time is spent searching reaction database to design synthetic routes to the target molecules and interpreting analytical data. As a team we have monthly meetings where we report on our progress, discuss any biological test results and think of new targets.

As well as presenting to the team I am also expected to occasionally present to larger groups with in the department. The people I work with have a broad range of knowledge and experience and actively encourage me to participate in problem solving and help to improve my understanding of synthetic chemistry and the drug discovery process.

The major advantage of working for Astra Zeneca is their commitment to developing their staff through continuous training and support. Most importantly I find my job both rewarding and enjoyable, the flexible and relaxed atmosphere leads to an excellent working environment to improve my skills.