Senior Scientist – Immunopeptidome

AstraZeneca • Gaithersburg, MD

23h • Hybrid

About The Position

We are seeking a highly motivated scientist with extensive expertise in cancer immunology/immunotherapy. The successful candidate will have substantial experience in studying Immunopeptidome, T cells and myeloid cells both in vivo and in vitro, with a specific interest in cancer vaccines. You will independently design and execute projects/experiments, troubleshoot and optimize methods, generate, interpret, and report scientific data clearly and concisely. A PhD in Immunology or a related field and a proven postdoctoral record with strong publications are required. Strong expertise working with human tissues is required and knowledge of mouse tumor models is desirable. As a Senior Scientist, you will be a key member of a team focused on designing novel Immunotherapeutics with an emphasis on cancer vaccines, supporting projects through the drug discovery and development process. You will bring your theoretical and practical expertise in immunology to establish assay systems and deliver datasets that will have a direct impact on immune-oncology therapeutics.

Requirements

• A PhD, or equivalent experience, in immunology with minimum of 2 years of postdoctoral experience.
• Extensive experience in studying T cells and myeloid cells.
• Experience with the analysis of immunopeptidome.
• Hands-on experience with cell-based assays for cancer immunotherapy programs.
• Strong hands-on skills in basic biochemical and immunological methods including multi-color flow cytometry (FACS), ELISA/multiplex assays, ELISPOT, cell killing assays, and high content imaging.
• Excellent organizational and communication skills.
• Ability to work in a collaborative, fast-paced environment while planning and meeting timelines.
• Proven track record of success in your research, and experience preparing written scientific reports (e.g., manuscripts) and oral presentations to broad and diverse audiences.
• Strong expertise working with human tissues is required.

Nice To Haves

• Knowledge of mouse tumor models is desirable.
• Experience working with RNA is a plus.

Responsibilities

• Set up and conduct mechanistic cancer immunology and drug discovery research experiments using techniques in immunology, molecular, and cellular biology.
• Maintain a well-developed understanding of approaches to investigate the vaccines, function of T cells, myeloid cells, and aspects of drug discovery.
• Cell-based assay development: Establish, optimize, and perform cell-based assays using both cell lines and primary cells to evaluate vaccine function, expression, and immunological readouts.
• Analytical characterization: Apply immunopeptidomics, flow cytometry, fluorescent imaging of cells, and measurement of protein expression to validate target and characterize vaccine performance and mechanism of action.
• Data Analytics and Interpretation: Make detailed observations, analyze complex datasets, and independently interpret results to guide next decisions.
• Assess and report data with little guidance in a clear and concise manner with a strong understanding of its implications within the overall context of drug discovery.
• Documentation and Quality: Prepare clear protocols, quantitative analyses, and detailed technical summaries; maintain accurate, audit-ready documentation across studies.
• Scientific Communication: Present findings with clarity to internal teams and external audiences; publish high-quality work in peer-reviewed journals to shape the scientific field.
• Actively liaise between programs/departments, sharing scientific knowledge and feedback on others’ experiments to ensure efficient relay of information and translation of data.

Benefits

• short-term incentive bonus opportunity
• equity-based long-term incentive program
• qualified retirement program [401(k) plan]
• paid vacation and holidays
• paid leaves
• health benefits including medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree