Scientist, Bioscience Immunology

We are seeking a highly motivated scientist with a strong understanding of adaptive and/or innate immunity as well as key biological pathways in immune-mediated diseases (rheumatological, gastrointestinal, or dermatological). This is a lab-based position located in Cambridge, MA within AstraZeneca's state-of-the-art laboratories.

You will characterize immune pathways in health and disease, design and optimize assays, and generate data that shapes program strategy. You will predominantly work with human in vitro systems, both primary and disease tissue-derived cells; knowledge and experience with in vivo science models is a bonus. Cross-functional collaboration and strong communication skills are a must.

Accountabilities

• Immunology Pathway Characterization: Define and interrogate novel immunological pathways in autoimmune diseases to drive target validation and guide therapeutic hypotheses for drug projects.
• Human In Vitro and Ex Vivo Models: Design, execute, and refine studies using primary and disease tissue-derived cells to generate translational data that inform program decisions.
• Assay Development and Validation: Build, optimize, and qualify robust cellular, molecular, and protein assays; establish standards and controls to ensure reproducibility and decision-grade data.
• Advanced Analytics and Data Integrity: Apply rigorous experimental design and statistical thinking to critically analyze complex datasets and communicate clear, actionable conclusions.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with project teams and external collaborators to align on goals, share insights, and accelerate progress; bring external science and technologies in when they create advantage.
• Scientific Leadership and Publication: Lead aspects of the biology, contribute to strategy discussions, and publish high-quality research in reputable journals to advance the field and our pipeline.
• Continuous Improvement in a Dynamic Environment: Navigate ambiguity with resilience; iterate quickly, learn from setbacks, and adopt inventive approaches that keep programs moving at pace.

Requirements

• Ph.D. degree with 1+ years of post-doctoral experience
• Expertise in drug discovery projects in immunology, or a closely related field of biology is preferred
• Highly organized and self-motivated, with the ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a team to conduct a high-level research project
• Demonstrated proficiency in several of the following: primary cell culture, multi-panel flow cytometry (including both intracellular and extracellular markers), ELISA, Western blot, multiplex cytokine read-outs (MSD, AlphaLISA, Luminex, etc.)
• Strong written and oral communication skills and the ability to critically analyze data sets
• Ability to record protocols and experiments in timely manner and maintain excellent laboratory notebook
• Demonstrated ability to run collaborative efforts and utilize external resources to find the most effective solutions to drug discovery problems
• Biotech or pharmaceutical experience preferred but not essential