Associate Scientist
AstraZeneca
Summary
The successful candidate will demonstrate strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to balance hands-on laboratory work, data analysis, documentation, and effective communication in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment.
Job description
Main Duties & Responsibilities
- Support CAR-T cell product development and optimization in early-stage development; design, develop and execute experiments in formulation, fill/finish, and cryopreservation processes
- Execute laboratory experiments following protocols and troubleshoot routine technical issues
- Operate relevant cell-processing, fill/finish, controlled-rate freezing, cryogenic storage, and thawing equipment
- Perform assays to assess CAR-T product quality and cellular health, including cell count, viability, recovery, apoptosis, flow-cytometric phenotype, and functional readouts
- Collect, organize, analyze, and interpret experimental data and communicate conclusions
- Maintain accurate and timely documentation in laboratory notebooks and electronic systems; author or contribute to protocols, technical reports, and presentations
- Collaborate with analytical development, process development, and external partners to support robust and scalable CAR-T drug product processes
- Follow established safety, biosafety, aseptic, and data-integrity practices and contribute to a safe, organized, and inspection-ready laboratory environment
The successful candidate will demonstrate strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to balance hands-on laboratory work, data analysis, documentation, and effective communication in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment.
Education & Experience Requirements
Education: M.S. or B.S. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmaceutics, Chemical/biochemical Engineering or related field. Associate Scientist: BS with 2+ years of experience or MS and 0+ years of experience in biopharmaceutical Industry/Academic lab.
Required Skills
- Hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture and aseptic processing
- Experience and knowledge of cell therapy drug product development, especially in cell product formulation, filling, freezing, storage, thawing, and post-thaw handling
- Experience with basic cell-based analytical methods such as automated cell counting, and viability assessment; advanced analytical methods such as flow cytometry, apoptosis measurements, or functional assays are desired
- Ability to organize and analyze experimental data, prepare clear summaries, draw scientifically sound conclusions, and communicate results to project teams
- Time-management skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic, interdisciplinary environment
- Effective written and verbal communication skills and a demonstrated ability to collaborate with colleagues across functions
Desired Skills
- Experience with closed or automated cell-processing platforms such as Finia, Sepax, Cue, LOVO, or other cell-processing systems
- Knowledge of cryobiology, formulation science, and excipient screening
- Experience with DoE and statistical data analysis
Requirements
- M.S. or B.S. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmaceutics, Chemical/biochemical Engineering or related field
- BS with 2+ years of experience or MS and 0+ years of experience in biopharmaceutical Industry/Academic lab
- Hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture and aseptic processing
- Experience and knowledge of cell therapy drug product development, especially in cell product formulation, filling, freezing, storage, thawing, and post-thaw handling
- Experience with basic cell-based analytical methods such as automated cell counting and viability assessment
- Ability to organize and analyze experimental data, prepare clear summaries, draw scientifically sound conclusions, and communicate results to project teams
- Time-management skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic, interdisciplinary environment
- Effective written and verbal communication skills and a demonstrated ability to collaborate with colleagues across functions
Benefits
- Retirement programs
- Paid time off
- Health coverage
- Dental coverage
- Vision coverage
- Short-term incentive bonuses
- Equity-based awards
Company overview
AstraZeneca is a global, science-led, patient-focused pharmaceutical company dedicated to accelerating the delivery of life-changing medicines that create enduring value for patients, society, and shareholders. With a workforce of over 94,300 employees worldwide, the company operates across three core therapy areas: Oncology, BioPharmaceuticals (including Cardiovascular, Renal & Metabolism, Respiratory & Immunology), and Rare Disease. Headquartered in Cambridge, UK, AstraZeneca maintains strategic R&D centers in Cambridge, Gaithersburg (US), Boston (US), Gothenburg (Sweden), Shanghai, and Beijing. The company generated $54.1 billion in total revenue in 2024 and invested $13.6 billion in scientific research and development. AstraZeneca's bold aspiration is to be pioneers in science, lead in disease areas, and transform patient outcomes, with a goal to launch 20 new medicines and achieve $80 billion in total revenue by 2030. The company is recognized for its commitment to sustainability, health equity, and creating an inclusive work environment where diverse perspectives drive innovation.