Associate Scientist
AstraZeneca
Main Duties & Responsibilities
- Support CAR-T cell product development and optimization in early-stage development. Design, develop, and execute experiments in formulation, fill/finish, and cryopreservation processes.
- Execute laboratory experiments following protocols and troubleshooting routine technical issues.
- Operate relevant cell-processing, fill/finish, controlled-rate freezing, cryogenic storage, and thawing equipment.
- Perform assays to assess CAR-T product quality and cellular health, including cell count, viability, recovery, apoptosis, flow-cytometric phenotype, and functional readouts.
- Collect, organize, analyze, and interpret experimental data and communicate conclusions.
- Maintain accurate and timely documentation in laboratory notebooks and electronic systems; author or contribute to protocols, technical reports, and presentations.
- Collaborate with analytical development, process development, and external partners to support robust and scalable CAR-T drug product processes.
- Follow established safety, biosafety, aseptic, and data-integrity practices; contribute to a safe, organized, and inspection-ready laboratory environment.
- Demonstrate strong organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to balance hands-on laboratory work, data analysis, documentation, and effective communication in a fast-paced, cross-functional environment.
Education & Experience Requirements
- Education: M.S. or B.S. in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Pharmaceutics, Chemical/biochemical Engineering, or related field.
- Associate Scientist: BS with 2+ years of experience or MS and 0+ years of experience in biopharmaceutical Industry/Academic lab.
Requirements & Tech Stack
- Hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture and aseptic processing.
- Experience and knowledge of cell therapy drug product development, especially in cell product formulation, filling, freezing, storage, thawing, and post-thaw handling.
- Experience with basic cell-based analytical methods such as automated cell counting, and viability assessment.
- Advanced analytical methods such as flow cytometry, apoptosis measurements, or functional assays are desired.
- Ability to organize and analyze experimental data, prepare clear summaries, draw scientifically sound conclusions, and communicate results to project teams.
- Time-management skills and the ability to manage multiple priorities in a dynamic, interdisciplinary environment.
- Effective written and verbal communication skills and a demonstrated ability to collaborate with colleagues across functions.
Desired Skills
- Experience with closed or automated cell-processing platforms such as Finia, Sepax, Cue, LOVO, or other cell-processing systems.
- Knowledge of cryobiology, formulation science, and excipient screening.
- Experience with DoE and statistical data analysis.