Associate Scientist

AstraZeneca

Gaithersburg, MD0–2 yrs1h agovia LinkedIn

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.

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