Associate Scientist
About The Position
The Associate Scientist will support early-stage CAR-T cell product development and optimization. The role involves designing, developing, and executing experiments related to formulation, fill/finish, and cryopreservation processes. The scientist will perform laboratory work and product-quality assessments, analyze and communicate experimental findings, maintain thorough documentation, and collaborate with internal teams and external partners to support robust, scalable CAR-T drug product processes. The position is based at AstraZeneca’s Gaithersburg, Maryland scientific campus, which houses U.S. R&D and Oncology and includes advanced laboratory spaces and technology.
Requirements
- M.S. or B.S. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmaceutics, Chemical or Biochemical Engineering, or a related field.
- For a B.S., at least 2 years of experience; for an M.S., 0 or more years of experience in a biopharmaceutical industry or academic laboratory.
- Hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture and aseptic processing.
- Experience and knowledge of cell therapy drug product development, particularly 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 ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic, interdisciplinary environment.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills and ability to collaborate across functions.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
Nice To Haves
- Experience with advanced analytical methods such as flow cytometry, apoptosis measurements, or functional assays.
- 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 design of experiments (DoE) and statistical data analysis.
Responsibilities
- Design, develop, and execute experiments in formulation, fill/finish, and cryopreservation for early-stage CAR-T cell product development and optimization.
- Execute laboratory experiments according to protocols and troubleshoot routine technical issues.
- Operate cell-processing, fill/finish, controlled-rate freezing, cryogenic storage, and thawing equipment.
- Perform assays assessing 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 laboratory notebook and electronic-system documentation.
- 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 safety, biosafety, aseptic, and data-integrity practices and help maintain a safe, organized, inspection-ready laboratory.
- Balance laboratory work, data analysis, documentation, and communication in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment.
Benefits
- Eligibility for short-term incentive bonuses.
- Equity-based awards for salaried roles.
- Qualified retirement programs.
- Paid time off, including vacation, holidays, and leaves.
- Health coverage.
- Dental coverage.
- Vision coverage.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
