Assay Scientist

Assay Scientist

Are you ready to push the boundaries of science and change the practice of medicine? As an Assay Scientist, you will be at the forefront of our mission to eliminate cancer as a cause of death. You will provide critical biochemical and cell assay expertise to deliver multiple biologics drug discovery and technology development projects using state-of-the-art technologies. This is a lab-based role involving design, execution, and interpretation of scientific experiments, and effective communication of findings and recommendations as part of a multi-disciplinary project team.

Accountabilities:

You will take part in developing high-quality biochemical and cell-based high throughput functional assays for drug discovery and technology development programs. Specifically, characterize multi-specific antibodies and other complex biologics in monolayer and 3D model systems, such as spheroids and organoids. You will contribute to the development of novel drug discovery screening platforms.

• Work closely with a Senior Scientist to establish HTP (96/384 well) assay platforms for screening biologics modalities.
• Develop assays using cell lines and primary immune cells.
• Help design and execute 3D assays for functional screening of T-cell engagers, ADCs, and cytokine-fusions among other complex modalities.
• Support the development of live-cell high content, high throughput imaging assays for the characterization of novel biologics and for the mechanistic understanding of complex drug-target interactions.
• Apply confocal imaging, ELISA, and flow-based methods for profiling and characterization of the cellular response to treatment.
• Identify creative solutions to sophisticated assay, technology, or drug discovery project problems.

Essential Skills/Experience:

• Masters degree in Cell Biology, Immunology, Biochemistry or similar field with at least 2 years of relevant experience in industry.
• Background in drug discovery in the pharmaceutical industry.
• Experience and in-depth technical knowledge of high throughput assay development, screening in 384-wells plate format, with a dedication to quality and scientific rigor.
• Experience handling primary cells and cell lines, including PBMC isolation.
• Strong teammate with good communication skills and experience of working in multi-disciplinary teams.
• Ability to tackle challenges creatively and contribute and improve assay technologies and processes.

Desirable Skills/Experience:

• Knowledge of biologics drug discovery and in vitro pharmacology.
• Experience with 3D cell culture and live high-content imaging or confocal microscopy.
• Familiarity with relevant software for image data analysis, such as ImageJ, Imaris.
• Project leadership experience.
• Experience of working within matrix teams.

At AstraZeneca, we are united by our vision to eliminate cancer as a cause of death. Our pioneering spirit drives us to make bold moves that transform the way cancer is treated, truly improving patient outcomes. With one of the broadest and deepest Oncology pipelines in the industry, we offer numerous opportunities to work with new and novel drugs. We foster a collaborative environment where diverse knowledge from across the business and external partners is harnessed to tackle the toughest medical challenges. Empowered by our collective courage and curiosity, we take smart risks, challenge norms, and learn from failures. Join us at the forefront of applying science to studies, using innovative approaches to create new possibilities in Oncology!

Ready to make a difference? Apply now!

The annual base pay for this position ranges from $80,653.60 - 120,980.40. Hourly and salaried non-exempt employees will also be paid overtime pay when working qualifying overtime hours. Base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience.  In addition, our positions offer a short-term incentive bonus opportunity; eligibility to participate in our equity-based long-term incentive program (salaried roles), to receive a retirement contribution (hourly roles), and commission payment eligibility (sales roles). 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. Additional details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment. If hired, employee will be in an “at-will position” and the Company reserves the right to modify base pay (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors. 

AstraZeneca embraces diversity and equality of opportunity. We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse team representing all backgrounds, with as wide a range of perspectives as possible, and harnessing industry-leading skills. We believe that the more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. We welcome and consider applications to join our team from all qualified candidates, regardless of their characteristics. We comply with all applicable laws and regulations on non-discrimination in employment (and recruitment), as well as work authorisation and employment eligibility verification requirements.