Scott from Engineering

• • Engineering

  • Dave
  • Kirsten
  • Catherine
  • Scott

I studied at the University of Strathclyde and graduated with an MEng in Product Design Engineering. During my university career I worked for two smaller companies to get industrial experience and prepare me for life in the real world.

"I feel a part of the whole department and can see the contribution I make on a regular basis" Scott

While in my penultimate year, a guest lecture by AstraZeneca caught my imagination and attention, so I decided to research the company.  I attended an evening presentation and spoke to recent graduates, I then realised AstraZeneca was the kind of company I wanted to work for, with open-minded, outgoing and energetic people, so I applied for a graduate position through the website.

I had a first round interview at my university and then progressed to the assessment centre. Although slightly apprehensive and stressed beforehand, this allowed me to see the kind of roles I could become involved in and I was very encouraged by the attitude of everyone I spoke to.

Having secured my place, I managed to agree a deferred entry and spent 8 months living in Italy before joining the company in June 2003.  Since starting I have become involved in a number of diverse roles including working on team projects where I have been involved in commissioning and testing of new plants, the design of an extension to an existing plant and acting as a mentor to local school children on a small engineering project.  I also have responsibility for completing individual projects including organising the trials of a new pump system, setting up a critical spares system, and plant modification work.

Working in Process Research & Development means that I am working in a crucial stage of the life cycle in the discovery and delivery of drugs that save the lives of many people, and I have a sense of pride knowing that.  Consequently the standards we have to work to in safety and manufacturing practice are very high, and my job provides me with a challenging and stimulating work environment. I feel a part of the whole department and can see the contribution I make on a regular basis.

The support to progress your career is also very evident.  I am working towards chartered status, and for an engineer I find that invaluable.  There is a solid network to ask advice and share experiences with, as well as having many opportunities to steer my own career.