Frequently asked questions
Should I use a recruitment agency to represent me?
We have a team of expert recruiters in our Talent Acquisition team who are ready to pick up your application. We encourage everyone to apply online direct to us, our candidate experience is really important to us.
Is a work permit necessary?
AstraZeneca is an equal opportunity employers and we encourage diversity in the workplace. We are also bound by each country's legislation for eligibility to work.
It is not always possible to secure work permits for Graduate and PhD opportunities. However we would still encourage applications for these roles so that we can look at all options available for work permits or sponsorship in line with local immigration legislation.
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), aswell as work authorisation and employment eligibility verification requirements.
Is there an upper age limit for applicants?
No. As an equal opportunity employer we have no upper age limit for applications. The most suitably qualified and experienced individual will be offered the role, irrespective of age. Learn more about the demographics of AstraZeneca employees.
Learn MoreDoes AstraZeneca employ military veterans?
Yes. AstraZeneca is an equal opportunity and military-friendly employer and all recruitment is based on merit.
Do you accept CVs/Resumes from recruitment agencies?
We only work with recruitment agencies on our Preferred Supplier List. We do not accept unsolicited CV/resumes and we will not engage with firms that send us unsolicited resumes.
Are all of your vacancies advertised on your website?
Yes, all of our current external vacancies are advertised on this website.
How often do you post new roles?
We regularly have new opportunities from around AstraZeneca globally. These are all posted by the relevant country teams at various days and times. We recommend that you set up our career site as a favourite to be able to see any great opportunity that would be applicable for you, or you can create a job alert on the site, that will alert you when new roles are posted.
What education background is required to work at AstraZeneca?
We employ individuals with a varied background across our business. The specific educational background requirements will be outlined in the job profile of the roles we advertise. Please ensure you fulfil the requirements for any specific position you apply for.
Can I still be considered for other roles if I’ve been unsuccessful in a previous application?
Yes. We encourage applications that have the correct mix of experience and skills to successfully perform the role.
How does AstraZeneca support candidates with disabilities during the recruitment process?
AstraZeneca treats all applicants as individuals and is committed to supporting all qualified applicants throughout the employment selection process by providing reasonable accommodations based on individual needs. We would strongly encourage you to speak to your talent acquisition partner to help us understand your needs so we can assess what reasonable accommodations can be made.
I have received a job offer from AstraZeneca, even though I have not applied for the job.
Please note - In recent weeks there has been an increase in suspicious email activity from people masquerading as recruiters for AstraZeneca.
These have been using very realistic looking material, imitating AstraZeneca people, involving fake offers of employment and asking for the exchange of money and credit card details.
AstraZeneca will never ask for money at any point in our recruitment process. If you are approached in this way, please ignore it. For further help and support please refer to the following:
UKUS
Does AstraZeneca, it's HR team or Recruiters, ever ask for payment for recruitment fees or banking information?
Absolutely not, you will never be asked for any form of payment as part of our recruitment process. We are committed to responsible recruitment and operate a 'no recruitment fee' policy, and we expect our partners and the third parties we work with to follow the same principle. Please be alert to persons fraudulently posing as AstraZeneca employees or recruiters.
How do I report a suspicious or potentially fraudulent recruitment communication?
If you are concerned that you may have received a fraudulent communication, please email MyHR.UK@AstraZeneca.com providing information about the job you have applied for details of the suspicious communication.
What can I expect following my application?
One of our recruiters will be in touch if you have the requirements for the role – we always endeavour to give you some notification either by email or phone where appropriate.
If successful for this stage there will typically be an interview process which we encourage to be a two way process. We are a company with strong values so also use these in our selection processes.
For certain positions, particularly in graduate roles, we may invite you to take part in a game-based assessment, a video or telephone interview or an assessment day or a combination of all three. Assessment events give you the opportunity to take part in situations that reflect the position you applied for. These events will enable you to fairly demonstrate your natural skills and competencies.
Can I mail my application instead of applying online?
Wherever possible we prefer that you apply online. This makes our application process more efficient and helps us get back to all candidates quicker. We can only accept paper applications if you have no other way to apply online.
Do I have to provide a separate application for every role I apply for?
Yes, please apply for all roles you are interested in. However, once you have applied for a role with us, your profile will be stored in the system and you can access it using your email and password.
How can I check how my application is progressing?
Shortly after submitting your application, you’ll receive an email acknowledgment. We’ll review your application as quickly as possible, but if there’s a specific application deadline, you’re unlikely to hear from us until after that time. You can also check the status of your application by logging into our application system.
When can I expect to receive feedback on my application?
This can vary depending on each particular vacancy. If your application has reached the interview stage or beyond, you will usually receive feedback within 14 days from the closing date for the role. We are unable to provide feedback to candidates who have been rejected prior to an interview. Once you have created your profile, you can check your application status by logging in.
Who do I contact if I am having problems with my application?
Please email the appropriate country Recruitment/HR Team (or contact us via the AstraZeneca switchboard). You will need to give us a detailed description of the problem and include screen shots, if possible. This will help us quickly act on your request.
Can I withdraw my application?
If you want to withdraw your application once it’s been submitted, you will need to contact your local recruitment team.
How long will it take before I hear the outcome from my interview?
The timing will vary, we will endeavour to share feedback as soon as we can. If successful a member of our HR or Recruitment teams will send you contractual information along with other important information regarding AstraZeneca and your new position.
Can I resubmit an updated cover letter and resume once I have submitted my application?
We would always recommend that you ensure that you are happy with your CV/resume and application before you submit it to ensure that your most up to date documents are considered.
I have been referred to a role by an AstraZeneca employee, when will I hear more?
Your details will be reviewed by a recruiting team. Once this has happened, we’ll let you know and we may ask you to apply for the role directly.
How should I prepare for my interview?
- Will you be able to perform well at the job?
- Do you have the potential to progress and lead?
- Are you enthusiastic and motivated?
- Will you work well in a team?
Of course, as an interview is a two-way process and you’ll have the opportunity to:
- Tell us more about yourself, including your skills and experience.
- Learn more about the position, the company, our culture and our values.
- Practice your interview technique and build self-awareness.
Will AstraZeneca reimburse my travel expenses if I come for an interview?
Yes, we will reimburse your expenses if you travel more than 100km for an interview. You will be reimbursed for approved travel expenses by completing the appropriate form in your interview packet and returning it in the self-addressed envelope provided.
What do I need to bring to the interview with me?
You need to bring valid identification and a copy of your resume/CV. In some geographies, copies of documentation to support your educational qualification and previous employer may also be necessary. You may also want to bring writing samples if writing is a key requirement for the role.
Do I have to submit my application in English?
Normally, you should submit your application in the same language as the job advert for the role you are applying to.
How are new employees welcomed into AstraZeneca?
Our onboarding programme starts from the moment you decide to join us. We believe that the impression you receive when you first join AstraZeneca will have a lasting impact on how you view the organisation. So we have designed our onboarding and induction process to help you gain a better understanding of our culture and ways of working, and set you up for success.
Who is responsible for my induction?
Your line manager plays a big part in ensuring you are onboarding to AZ. We also have a number of global and local tools to help set you up for success. Most countries run a buddy programme so it's also likely you will be assigned a buddy for a period of time to support you. There are also activities that the new starter can proactively undertake to aid their transition into their new organisation and to increase their performance and development.
Will I have the opportunity to travel?
We have a presence in over 100 countries worldwide. If it is a requirement of your role to travel, then we will expect you to do this. For those in positions where travel is not required, conference calls, video conferencing and communications will keep you fully up to date and in touch with global colleagues and suppliers.
What about mobility? Is it possible to change jobs within AstraZeneca and is it encouraged?
Our business spans the globe and so we actively promote mobility to make sure we have the right skills in the right place at the right time, but also to help you meet your professional development aspirations. We work hard to ensure opportunities are available and we encourage all employees to discuss any aspirations they have with their manager. We have a global internal job board and encourage our employees to review this, as well as have a robust development plan based on what paths each person wants to explore.
Does AstraZeneca conduct background screening as part of the recruitment process?
Alcohol and drug testing is carried out for new hires where required by country legislation. Medical screening is necessary to make sure you are fit to carry out the role being offered. AstraZenecas policy is to undertake pre-employment security screening for all posts
Our principles for security screening include:
- Security screening will only be undertaken with the individual’s written authorisation.
- Security screening must be undertaken in accordance with AstraZeneca's company culture and values of openness and honesty.
- The security screening process must not discriminate against the individual with regard to gender, sexual orientation, colour, religion or age.
- The person being screened should not have associations with groups whose aims are in conflict with AstraZeneca's culture, values or business aspirations.
References are obtained and checked as a precaution prior to the commencement of employment. They will be used to gather an opinion from previous employers about your suitability for the position, and can also be used for the purpose of:
- Verifying your stated experience and career history
- Obtaining a record of statutory sick pay and parental leave
- Confirming your reason for leaving his/her most recent position
- Obtaining data concerning your most recent salary.
How does AstraZeneca support employees with disabilities or health conditions, including mental health?
At AstraZeneca we want to foster an inclusive and diverse work environment where everyone feels respected because of their individual ability and perspective. We want individuals with disabilities or health conditions, including mental health to feel safe in our working environment and feel able to perform to their full potential.
Employees with a disability will be provided with the necessary work place adjustments (aligned with local laws and practices) that enable them to thrive, and where they are available, we will provide appropriate healthcare services, tools, education, training, healthcare cover, and Employee Assistance Programmes to enable employees to manage their overall health and wellbeing.
Company information
How do I contact my local AstraZeneca HR team?
Australia
+61 280989102
MyHR.ANZ@AstraZeneca.com
Brazil
+55 8000474256
MyHR.Brasil@AstraZeneca.com
Canada
+1 8662696267
MyHR.NorthAmerica@AstraZeneca.com
China
+86 400 889 7575
MyHR.China@AstraZeneca.com
Egypt
+20 225980241
MyHR.Egypt@AstraZeneca.com
France
+33 805542907
MyHR.France@AstraZeneca.com
Germany
+49 691 5325 3096
MyHR.Germany@AstraZeneca.com
India
+44 8999935213
MyHR.India@AstraZeneca.com
Italy
+39 0287103670
MyHR.Italy@AstraZeneca.com
Japan
+81 120907442
MyHR.Japan@AstraZeneca.com
Mexico
+52 8002531201
MyHR.Mexico@AstraZeneca.com
New Zealand
+64 99134461
MyHR.ANZ@AstraZeneca.com
Netherlands
+31 885678345
North America
+1 8553934056
MyHR.NorthAmerica@AstraZeneca.com
Poland
+48 223062441
MyHR.Poland@AstraZeneca.com
Spain
+34 918368540
MyHR.Spain@AstraZeneca.com
Sweden
+46 (0) 8 553 299 99
MyHR.Sweden@AstraZeneca.com
UK
+44 (0) 1625 519000
MyHR.UK@AstraZeneca.com
How can I become a supplier to AstraZeneca?
We operate a tightly controlled preferred supplier list for all permanent and temporary recruitment across all functions. Please be aware that we do not accept unsolicited CVs/resumes from staffing vendors, including recruitment agencies and search firms. We will not pay fees to any such vendors, other than those on our preferred supplier list.
We politely request that you refrain from contacting HR or Purchasing at the current time and ask that you do not approach or solicit AstraZeneca hiring managers regarding these matters.
Equal opportunities
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.
If you require any assistance in submitting an application for employment due to any impairment and / or disability please see above for the contact details for your country office.
How large will the new Cambridge campus be?
The Cambridge Biomedical Campus site is a growing and thriving hub for world-renowned biomedical activity. The facility will occupy approximately 11 acres of the 70-acre campus, which benefits from a central Cambridge location and strong infrastructure links.
When is AstraZeneca moving to Cambridge?
Our programme to increase our Cambridge presence has already started. This year an additional 400 employees, mostly scientists, will begin their work at temporary sites in Melbourn Science Park, the Cambridge Science Park and Granta Park. We are actively recruiting into roles now to build on these numbers. At the same time, we’re progressing the planning on our new permanent location at the Cambridge Biomedical Campus. Our new site will house a highly skilled workforce of approximately 2,000.
Who will AstraZeneca partner with in the Cambridge area?
In a world where partnerships and collaborations drive medical progress, becoming an integral part of the unique Cambridge scientific community is very important to us.
We are already partnered with a number of leading research organisations in the Cambridge area including the Cancer Research UK Cambridge Institute, Addenbrookes Hospital, Cambridge University Hospitals, the University of Cambridge Department of Oncology, the Babraham Institute and the Medical Research Council.
In March 2014, we entered into a ground-breaking collaboration with the Medical Research Council. Research will be aimed at better understanding human disease and our operations will be headquartered at our Cambridge site when it is completed.
What areas of science will Cambridge focus on?
The site in Cambridge will be our largest centre for oncology research, as well as cardiovascular and metabolic diseases, respiratory, inflammation and autoimmune diseases and conditions of the central nervous system.
The facility will also allow us to bring together AstraZeneca’s small molecule and biologics research and development activity, opening up opportunities to exploit the promise of small and large molecule combinations.
Who has access to my application/profile?
Our data privacy policy may vary in accordance with local and regional laws. Please review the relevant Data Privacy statement online when you are submitting your application.
Data privacy noticeWhat is AstraZeneca's policy in regards to testing on animals?
Read more about animal testing at https://www.astrazeneca.com/sustainability/ethics-and-transparency.html.
Read MoreWho do I contact if I would like to attend clinical testing?
AstraZeneca no longer conducts clinical studies in house. Since 2009, we have used clinics to do this for us. Therefore we no longer recruit people for clinical studies.
What is the process for contractors to apply for roles at AstraZeneca?
Fixed term contractors on AstraZeneca contracts can apply for internal positions and will be considered together with the internal pool of candidates.
Internal candidates will be considered prior to external candidates in all recruitment campaigns. If you are a contractor or a temporary staff member not on an AstraZeneca contract you will be able to apply as external candidates.
When can I apply for holiday work?
Summer holiday work is usually advertised during January-February. We only accept applications via online application systems or through our Externally Managed Resource team.