Scientist, Analytical Sciences - Cell Therapy

AstraZeneca • Santa Monica, CA

78d • $87,200 - $130,800

About The Position

We are looking for a passionate and technically experienced Scientist to join our Attribute Sciences team. This role is important for defining critical quality attributes (CQAs), supporting analytical development, and informing process and product understanding across all stages of development. You will have hands-on experience in flow cytometry and aseptic cell culture. This on-site role is based in Santa Monica, CA, and reports to the Associate Director, Attribute Sciences.

Requirements

• Three (3) years with BS/BA, or two (2) years with MS/MA in immunology, Cell Biology, Oncology, Molecular Biology, or a related discipline with experience in a biotechnology, biopharmaceutical, or academic setting.
• Extensive hands-on experience with multiparameter flow cytometry, including panel design, assay development, and data interpretation.
• Extensive mammalian cell culture experience, utilizing aseptic methods and procedures.
• Proficiency with analysis tools such as FlowJo and GraphPad Prism; scripting experience (e.g. R Python) is a plus.
• Ability to work independently and in cross-functional teams.
• Strong trouble shooting and critical thinking skills.
• Attention to details and following good documentation practices.
• Familiarity with analytical development in a regulated environment, including assay qualification and method lifecycle management.
• Experience in developing and executing cell killing or cytotoxicity assays for potency assessment.
• Understanding of quality by design (QbD) principles and regulatory expectations for cell therapies a plus.

Responsibilities

• Design, develop, and optimize flow cytometry panels for deep phenotypic and functional characterization of cell therapy products.
• Execute and analyze cell-based cytotoxicity/killing assays (e.g., Luciferase, IncuCyte, or flow-based assays) to assess product potency.
• Collaborate closely with Process Development and Manufacturing teams to define the relationship between process parameters and product attributes.
• Analyze complex datasets using advanced analytical tools; interpret results to drive scientific conclusions and inform CQA strategy.
• Contribute to regulatory filings (e.g., IND, BLA) through the generation of high-quality data packages and technical documentation.
• Stay up-to-date on emerging technologies and industry trends in analytical development and cell therapy.

Benefits

• A qualified retirement program [401(k) plan]
• Paid vacation, holidays, and paid leaves
• 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: Entry Level
• Industry: Chemical Manufacturing
• Education Level: Bachelor's degree