The life of a Pfizer Pre-registration Trainee Pharmacist
2008-2009 Trainee
"During my 6 month placement at Pfizer, I worked on developing oral formulations using Process Analytical Technology, which involves validating new equipment. Thanks to the extensive orientation and training on offer during the first few days and weeks and the fact that my tutors and supervisors were able to offer a lot of support, I felt comfortable with the work I was assigned.
The expectation is quickly set that the Pre-reg Trainees will manage their own workloads and progress within the project timelines. I feel this approach has contributed immensely to my training. I am developing skills such as communication and teamwork. I am also regularly giving presentations, something I didn’t really do at University. Because of this, I am feeling more independent and confident about my work.
I relocated to live near Pfizer, which is based in the small Kent town of Sandwich. Some of my peers chose to live nearby in the larger city of Canterbury, commuting about 15 miles to Pfizer. Since I don’t drive, I chose to live in Sandwich itself, renting a house with another Pfizer Pre-Reg Trainee. My living arrangements were facilitated by Pfizer, who sent me contact details for the other Trainees. This support helped me quickly secure a place to live.
I have enjoyed my time spent at Pfizer, and I urge any undergrads considering a career in industry to apply.
My top tip would be to keep an open mind, and be prepared to be flexible. You may find that your project does not directly draw on the skills you learned at university."
2007-2008 Trainee
"My main responsibility was for the delivery of an individual project which focused on optimising the performance of dry powder inhalers (DPIs). In short, I looked at ways of delivering more drug to the lungs without it getting stuck in the mouth, throat and upper airways on its journey. I was a fully integrated member of the formulation team, and as my pre-reg year required a minimum of six months' clinical experience, I spent the second half of the year at Guy’s and St Thomas' hospitals in London.
Together with all the necessary training and advice I needed to complete my individual project, Pfizer did everything it could to ensure my pre-registration was a successful one. For example, they facilitated my attendance at the regional London pre-reg study days, as well as OSCEs (objective structured clinical examinations). They also provided me with a list of key contacts around the site, with whom I could arrange meetings and cross-site visits in order to gain a more in-depth understanding of department's function and the various stages of the drug development process. And just as a reminder that they're aware that I am a trainee pharmacist, fortnightly clinical seminars led by two pharmacists were set up to enable both myself and the other pre-reg trainee to keep our clinical knowledge up to date. These pharmacists act as pre-registration mentors who are always on hand to talk through any issues on settling in, project work or any other aspect of the pre-registration year. With that kind of support behind you, it's no wonder the current trainee pass-rate is 100% first time!
While the work was challenging and exciting, the social side of things was equally as good. There are literally hundreds of other graduates and sandwich degree placement students with whom you can gain a few pounds at the social club's restaurant and bar, or lose a few at the company's well-equipped gym. Get yourself on to the appropriate email distribution list and you’ll never be stuck for something to do.
My advice to those thinking about applying for an Industrial Pre-Registration year? Go for it! Don’t let lack of work experience put you off because it won’t go against you at interview, and although places are limited, your chances may be better than you think. If you’re one of the lucky ones, I hope you find your time at Pfizer as rewarding and as enjoyable as I have. If you’re not, keep on trying! My top tip is if you are having problems, raise them early. People will help you sort them out before they snowball into something bigger."
