Drug Discovery Research Scientist

AstraZeneca•Gaithersburg, MD

1d•$92,252 - $138,378

About The Position

We are seeking a highly motivated and independent in vivo Scientist to join the growing Cell Therapy Team. This hands-on role uses in vivo research expertise to design and perform studies supporting development of innovative Cell Therapies. The work includes establishing and working with tumor models, administering cells and treatments, developing experimental methods, and analyzing and communicating scientific data. The Scientist will work collaboratively across disciplines to advance Cell Therapy programs.

Requirements

At least 6 years of rodent technical experience, or a bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline and at least 2 years of rodent technical experience.
Demonstrated experience in in vivo pharmacology, Cell Therapy, Immunology, Immuno-Oncology, or a related discipline.
Extensive in vivo skills, including animal handling, use of mouse tumor models, standard dosing and engraftment techniques, and tissue collection and processing.
Ability to design, execute, and troubleshoot in vivo experiments and to review, analyze, interpret, and communicate experimental results.
Effective communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work independently and as part of a team, maintain accurate records, and follow approved protocols.

Nice To Haves

Advanced cell culture techniques.
Well-developed understanding of molecular and cellular biology, immunological assays, and cell transfection/transduction.
Experience with genome editing technologies such as CRISPR/Cas9, base-editing, and transposons.
Experience with multicolor flow cytometry.
In vitro and in vivo experience with murine T cells.
Basic experience developing cell therapies, including CAR-T/CAR-NK, TCR-T, and/or TIL therapies.
Background in drug discovery and development in the pharmaceutical industry.

Responsibilities

Independently plan and perform hands-on in vivo studies supporting Cell Therapy programs, contributing to study design, experimental strategy, model selection, and endpoint definition.
Conduct animal handling, dose test articles and/or effector cells, collect blood, tumor, and tissue samples, monitor tumor burden using calipers and bioluminescent imaging, make clinical observations, and perform other study-related assessments according to approved protocols and training.
Accurately collect, record, and quality-check experimental data, observations, sample information, and study records.
Assess, interpret, and clearly and concisely present data, considering its implications for Cell Therapy, in vivo pharmacology, and broader drug-discovery objectives.
Organize and prioritize work to deliver agreed study activities and milestones within defined timelines and quality standards, and communicate progress, risks, and findings.
Collaborate across teams to support project delivery and ensure work complies with applicable Safety, Health & Environment (SHE), quality, and regulatory requirements, including laboratory standards (GLS).