Bioscience Careers: R&D Graduate Program in Bioscience at AstraZeneca |ย Apply Now
Are you ready to start an exciting journey in cutting-edge drug discovery? The AstraZeneca Research & Development (R&D) Graduate Program in Bioscience, based in Bostonโs Kendall Square, offers aspiring scientists a unique opportunity to transform their life science education into real-world impact. Designed for graduates in biosciences or life sciences, this two-year R&D internship immerses you in hands-on research, mentorship, and innovationโsetting the stage for a rewarding career in the global biopharmaceutical industry.
About the Company
AstraZeneca is a global, science-led biopharmaceutical company dedicated to the discovery and development of medicines that transform lives. Guided by innovation and collaboration, AstraZeneca focuses on major disease areas including oncology, cardiovascular, renal, respiratory, and rare diseases. The company encourages learning and curiosity at every level, empowering scientists to โfollow the scienceโ and make a lasting difference in healthcare.
R&D Graduate Program Details:
- Location: Kendall Square, Boston, MA
- Start Date: September 2026
- Duration: 2 years
- Structure: Three individual eight-month placements
- Focus Areas: Drug discovery, development, and various therapy areas
- Salary: Successful candidates will receive an annualized salary of $82,500, a potential 10% annual bonus, and a comprehensive benefits package including vacation, sick leave, health, dental, vision, and 401(k).
- Key Dates:
- Advert Opens: November 10, 2025
- Advert Closes: December 7, 2025
- Assessment Center Days: February 17, 18, or 19 (TuesdayโThursday)
Note: Full-day availability required; no alternative dates offered.
About the Opportunity
The AstraZeneca R&D Bioscience Graduate Program is a two-year structured opportunity designed for graduates seeking to accelerate their career in the life sciences. Through three eight-month placements, participants gain hands-on experience in drug discovery and development, working across multiple therapy areas. You will expand your scientific knowledge, develop key technical skills, and receive personalized mentorship from industry experts.
What Youโll Gain
- Hands-On Experience: Engage in diverse R&D projects and gain valuable insights into drug discovery and development processes.
- Professional Growth: Receive mentorship and guidance from experienced scientists, along with support from a dedicated management team. Expand your professional network across AstraZenecaโs global ecosystem.
- Skill Development: Build your technical expertise and understanding across multiple scientific disciplines, including regulatory and clinical development.
Requirements for Bioscience Careers at AstraZeneca
Education:
Bachelorโs or masterโs degree in any life science-related subject, awarded in 2025 or before September 2026.
Skills:
- Proactive problem-solving and critical thinking
- Excellent planning, organization, and time management
- Strong written and verbal communication
Attributes:
A passion for drug discovery, teamwork, and a drive to make a meaningful difference.
Placement Details
Lab-Based Placements: Opportunities in biology, biochemistry, and pharmacology.
Non-Lab-Based Placements: Work on computational/bioinformatics projects or contribute to clinical programs and regulatory affairs.
Flexibility: Select from multiple placementsโat least one must be lab-based.
Post-Program Opportunities
Upon completion, approximately 50% of graduates pursue a PhD, while others continue their bioscience careers within AstraZeneca or other leading organizations. Where will your journey take you?
Application Process for Bioscience Careers at AstraZeneca
- Submit your application online.
- Complete the SHL online assessment.
- Shortlisted candidates will attend a full-day virtual assessment.
