Development Scientist II, Viral Vector Analytical Development

AstraZeneca • Boston, MA

18d • Hybrid

About The Position

At AstraZeneca, we win through the science, it is at the heart of our every success. Every decision is rooted in the limitless possibilities of what science can do. We push the boundaries of science to deliver life-changing medicines. This purpose underpins everything we do. It gives us a reason to come to work every day. It reminds us why we exist as a company. It helps us deliver benefits to patients and build new value for shareholders. It also sets the context for our employees’ activities and the roles of our teams, partners, and other collaborators. AstraZeneca has a dynamic environment that fosters collaboration and innovation. We attract top minds, and we nurture and build top talent. Introduction to role: Are you ready to make a significant impact in the world of genomic medicine? As a Development Scientist II in Viral Vector Analytical Development at Alexion, you'll be at the forefront of innovation, working closely with the Genomic Medicine and Viral Vector Product Development groups. Collaborate with a dynamic team of scientists to develop, qualify, and test immunoassay-based methods to assess recombinant Adeno-Associated Viral (rAAV) vectors. Your expertise will contribute to regulatory submissions, authoring technical reports and SOPs, and advancing our genomic medicine portfolio. Are you up for the challenge? At AstraZeneca's Alexion division, you'll find an environment where innovation thrives. Our commitment to patients drives us to push boundaries in R&D and healthcare. With a rapidly expanding portfolio, you'll have the chance to grow alongside us while making a real difference in the lives of those living with rare diseases. Our culture fosters connection and collaboration, empowering you to explore new ideas and develop your skills. Join us on this journey where your career is more than just a path—it's an opportunity to make an impact. As AstraZeneca continues to put patients at the forefront of our mission, we are excited for our move to Kendall Square/Cambridge in 2026. Find out more information here: Kendall Square Press Release Ready to take the next step? We’d love to hear from you!

Requirements

• BS in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or related field with 8+ years of relevant experience, a MS with 6+ years of experience, or PhD with 2+ years of experience
• Strong hands-on experience in the development, qualification/validation, and transfer of immunoassay (ELISA, Mesoscale) methods for biological products. Hands-on experience with flow cytometry, surface plasmon resonance, or implementing automation equipment is a plus
• Demonstrated ability to apply standard office software (Excel, PowerPoint, Word, etc.), data analysis software (Softmax Pro, GraphPad, etc.), and eNotebooks software
• Strong analytical attitude and problem-solving skills
• Outstanding organizational and time management skills, ability to prioritize multiple demands and work efficiently with great attention to detail
• Excellent interpersonal and collaborative skills, and the ability to work independently and effectively in a highly dynamic environment
• The duties of this role are generally conducted in a mixed office and lab environment. As is typical of a lab-based role, employees must be able, with or without an accommodation to: lift 15 pounds unassisted; work comfortably in a controlled environment with and around biological, infectious, and hazardous materials; gown/degown PPE; use a computer; engage in communications via phone, video, and electronic messaging; engage in problem solving and non-linear thought, analysis, and dialogue; collaborate with others; maintain general availability during standard business hours

Nice To Haves

• Candidates should be self-starters, comfortable with autonomy, and embrace opportunities to develop new genomic medicines as part of a dynamic team within Alexion.
• 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.

Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, and implement immunoassay methods to quantify manufacturing process impurities, characterize capsids, and assess potency of rAAV vectors.
• Craft and execute experiments, review and analyze data, and qualify assays in a lab setting.
• Support tech transfer of immunoassays to internal teams and external manufacturing/testing organizations for release and characterization testing; serve as subject matter authority to assist with assay troubleshooting and lab investigations.
• Develop presentations for internal and external audiences. Author and review standard operating procedures (SOPs), technical reports, and assist with the preparation of analytical sections for regulatory submissions (IND, BLA, etc.).
• Serve as analytical lead on cross-functional CMC teams which may include members of QC, Upstream/Downstream Process Development, Manufacturing, QA, and Regulatory.

Benefits

• Benefits offered included a qualified retirement program [401(k) plan]; paid vacation and holidays; paid leaves; and, health benefits including medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees