Associate Scientist (Analytical Development, Cell Therapy)

Associate Scientist (Analytical Development, Cell Therapy) 

Summary of the group 

Join our Cell Therapy Analytical Development team, where we develop and deliver robust, technologically advanced biological assays to progress cell therapy products from research to commercial stages. Our team supports the end-to-end biological and bioanalytical characterization of viral vector and cell therapy products, enabling manufacturing processes, formulation, drug product development, and regulatory filings from IND to BLA and beyond. We collaborate closely with analytical quality and several cross-functional teams, including clinical, regulatory, QA, and manufacturing. 

Accountabilities 

• Develop robust functional, characterization, and molecular analytical methods including method qualification and transfer. 

• Make detailed observations, analyze data, interpret results, and exercise appropriate technical discretion in the design, execution, and interpretation of experiments independently. 

• Carry out analytical development/sample testing to enable lentiviral vector upstream and downstream process development. 

• Author/review technical reports, protocols, and technical summaries for presentation. 

• Present and discuss experimental results at group/project team meetings. 

• Work in a team-based structure and interface with research and process development departments. 

Essential Skills/Experience 

• Bachelor’s degree in Immunology, Cell Biology, Biological Sciences, Biotechnology, or related field with 3+ years of relevant experience or a Master's degree in Immunology, Cell Biology, Biological Sciences, Biotechnology, or related field with 1+ years of relevant experience. 

• Biotechnology or pharmaceutical industry experience working with analytical for lentiviral vector and CAR T cells is required. 

• Highly proficient in immunology techniques is required, such as ELISA or similar technology platforms.  

• Highly proficient in molecular biology techniques is required, such as qPCR, dPCR, for gene edit evaluation, on target/off target analysis.   

• Exhibit excellent written and oral communication skills. 

• Good time management and organizational skills with the ability to prioritize tasks from multiple projects to meet timelines. 

Desirable Skills/Experience 

• Experience method qualification/validation and tech transfer of cell and gene therapy analytical methods is a plus. 

• Experience in biophysical analysis such as DLS, HPLC, mass spectrometry and capillary electrophoresis, Flow virometry is a plus for lentiviral vector characterization is a plus. 

• Experience with NGS is a plus 

When we put unexpected teams in the same room, we unleash bold thinking with the power to inspire life-changing medicines. In-person working gives us the platform we need to connect, work at pace and challenge perceptions. That's why we work, on average, a minimum of three days per week from the office. But that doesn't mean we're not flexible. We balance the expectation of being in the office while respecting individual flexibility. Join us in our unique and ambitious world. 

At AstraZeneca, we are driven by our commitment to deliver accelerated growth and make people's lives better. Our inclusive network of diverse and high-performing teams supports each other with trust and respect. We thrive on curiosity and problem-solving, constantly learning and evolving. With opportunities for global careers and great rewards, AstraZeneca is where you can make a real impact. Ready to make a difference? Apply now to join our team! 

The annual base pay for this position ranges from $69,345 to $104,017. Our positions offer eligibility for various incentives—an opportunity to receive short-term incentive bonuses, equity-based awards for salaried roles and commissions for sales roles. Benefits offered include qualified retirement programs, paid time off (i.e., vacation, holiday, and leaves), as well as health, dental, and vision coverage in accordance with the terms of the applicable plan.