Materials Characterisation Team Undergraduate

Pfizer UK Undergraduate Programme 2027/2028
Global Technology, Engineering & Launch, Pfizer Global Supply
Undergraduate Placement Student - Materials Characterisation Team
Who can apply?
Applicants must be completing a placement as part of a degree course at a UK University, either through Year in Industry/Industrial Placement or Gap Year.
Please note that we will only consider candidates who have applied by completing the Pfizer Placement Application Form. Candidates who do not complete and attach the application form will NOT be considered. You can download the Word version of the Application Form here: Undergraduate Vacancies | Pfizer UK and find instructions as to how to complete your application and more about eligibility criteria.
Are you curious about how medicines are made, excited by hands-on laboratory science, and keen to spend a year developing skills that could shape your future career? Join Pfizer's Materials Characterisation Team and contribute to real scientific work that supports the development, manufacture and supply of medicines for patients around the world.
Department Overview
The Materials Characterisation Team helps Pfizer understand the materials used to make medicines. We investigate active ingredients, excipients, intermediates, finished products and packaging materials, using analytical science to answer important questions, solve manufacturing challenges, assess new suppliers and support Pfizer's global supply network.
What will I do?
You will join a friendly and supportive team of scientists who use analytical science to solve real problems. From early in your placement, you will contribute to live project work, learn how to plan and carry out laboratory experiments, interpret data and communicate your findings. You may also have the opportunity to lead or contribute to a research project, including evaluating new technologies or improving how we work.
During the placement, you will gain hands-on experience in a professional laboratory environment, build confidence working with scientific data and develop skills that will support both your degree and your future career.
Key responsibilities:

• Plan and carry out laboratory experiments with guidance from experienced scientists.
• Analyse and interpret results, then share your findings through presentations, discussions and technical reports.
• Support live Materials Characterisation projects that help Pfizer understand and solve manufacturing, product and supply challenges.
• Help maintain a safe, organised and efficient laboratory environment, including 5S and lean lab activities.

What will I gain?
• Build confidence presenting scientific data to your team and colleagues across the site.
• Develop technical writing skills by contributing to reports and clear scientific summaries.
• Learn how science supports medicine development, manufacturing and supply in a global pharmaceutical company.
• Access training and support to help you grow your scientific, professional and personal skills.

• Get involved in wider Pfizer activities, including community volunteering, STEM outreach and undergraduate networking opportunities.

When can I start?
Placements will start on 1st September 2027 and will run for 12 months.
Person Specification:
• Completing a placement as part of a degree course at a UK university, either through a Year in Industry, Industrial Placement or Gap Year.

• Curiosity about materials science, analytical chemistry, pharmaceutical science or how medicines are made, with good laboratory skills and attention to detail.
• An innovative and creative approach to problem solving.
• Willingness to learn, ask questions and develop new scientific and professional skills.
• Enthusiasm, reliability and a positive approach to working as part of a team.
• Ability to manage tasks, stay organised and take ownership of your work.

How to apply
This position will close for applications on 18th October 2026.
Please note that we only accept completed Pfizer Placement Application Forms. CVs and cover letters will not be considered.
Please access the Word version of the Application Form here: Undergraduate Vacancies | Pfizer UK . This page also includes instructions on how to complete your application and further information about eligibility criteria.
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Work Location Assignment: On Premise
Purpose
Breakthroughs that change patients' lives... At Pfizer we are a patient centric company, guided by our four values: courage, joy, equity and excellence. Our breakthrough culture lends itself to our dedication to transforming millions of lives.
Digital Transformation Strategy
One bold way we are achieving our purpose is through our company wide digital transformation strategy. We are leading the way in adopting new data, modelling and automated solutions to further digitize and accelerate drug discovery and development with the aim of enhancing health outcomes and the patient experience.
Flexibility
We aim to create a trusting, flexible workplace culture which encourages employees to achieve work life harmony, attracts talent and enables everyone to be their best working self. Let's start the conversation!
Equal Employment Opportunity
We believe that a diverse and inclusive workforce is crucial to building a successful business. As an employer, Pfizer is committed to celebrating this, in all its forms - allowing for us to be as diverse as the patients and communities we serve. Together, we continue to build a culture that encourages, supports and empowers our employees.
DisAbility Confident
We are proud to be a Disability Confident Employer and we encourage you to put your best self forward with the knowledge and trust that we will make any reasonable adjustments necessary to support your application and future career. Our mission is unleashing the power of our people, especially those with unique superpowers. Your journey with Pfizer starts here!
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