Drug Discovery Veteran with Great Benefits - Research Scientist AstraZeneca Employee Review

4.0
Oct 24, 2009
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

AstraZeneca is a good place to work, and they have a long history in drug discovery, so it's also a great place to learn. There are several employees with 20+ years of experience and they're valuable resources. The compensation is inline with industry standards and the benefits are some of the best available. 6% match, dollar for dollar, on 401k, a retirement plan too, all the usual health care benefits, signing bonus, cost of living adjustments and relocation $$, and a very strong annual bonus system -- 20-30% in cash, and the same percentage in LTI stock.

Cons

The downside is that the company loyalty is strong and very few people leave the company, resulting in limited promotion opportunities. Since pharma is contracting right now, many of the divisions are not growing, so that also limits opportunities. The annual salary adjustments are usually 3-4%, which is sometimes out of line with inflation, but the bonus can make up for it.

Explore other reviews about AstraZeneca

5.0
May 28, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Great place to work and good benefits

Cons

There really aren’t any cons

5.0
Apr 22, 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

I imagine this is very dependent on line management but I find my team and supervisors to be true champions of a high performing and highly compassionate work culture. I find my work challenging and rewarding, and have had opportunities to learn and grow and be rewarded and recognized for my output. No job is perfect but I’m truly happy to work here and at a time when AZ is truly rising like a rocket.

Cons

Like any massive global corporate entity, things can sometimes move slowly and it can be challenging to navigate a high number of constantly evolving priorities and initiatives. That being said, AZ is very clear about its north stars and values which makes it possible to prioritize work that has the most impact and alignment with the company’s ambition and business prerogatives. 60% office attendance policy is also a bit funny when oftentimes I am on Teams calls with colleagues sitting in other areas of the world.

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