Drug Discovery Research Scientist

AstraZeneca•Gaithersburg, MD

About The Position

We are seeking a highly motivated and independent in vivo Scientist to join the Cell Therapy Team. In this hands-on role, the Scientist will design and perform studies supporting the development of innovative cell therapies. Work includes establishing and using tumor models, administering cells and treatments, developing experimental methods, and analyzing and communicating scientific data. The role involves close collaboration with colleagues 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, including the ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Ability to maintain accurate records and work in accordance with approved protocols.

Nice To Haves

Advanced cell culture techniques.
Well-developed understanding of molecular and cellular biology, immunological assays, and cell transfection or transduction.
Experience with genome-editing technologies such as CRISPR/Cas9, base editing, or 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 pharmaceutical-industry drug discovery and development.

Responsibilities

Independently plan and conduct hands-on in vivo studies supporting cell therapy programs, contributing to study design, experimental strategy, model selection, and endpoint definition.
Perform 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 conduct other study 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 present data, considering implications for cell therapy, in vivo pharmacology, and drug-discovery objectives.
Organize and prioritize work to deliver 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, regulatory, and laboratory standards (GLS).