At AstraZeneca's Oncology R&D division, we follow the science to explore and innovate. We are working towards treating, preventing, modifying, and even curing some of the world's most complex diseases. Here we have the potential to grow our pipeline and positively impact the lives of billions of patients around the world. We are committed to making a difference and have built our business around our passion for science. Now we are fusing data and technology with the latest scientific innovations to achieve the next wave of breakthroughs.
Position SummaryThe Senior Associate, Analytical Development will be responsible for the execution of routine testing, including but not limited to flow cytometry assay, cell-based cytotoxicity assay, or PCR-based assay, to characterize or release engineered TCR-T cell drug product. Additionally, this role may contribute to the daily operational tasks in Analytical Development team. This role is based out of Santa Monica, CA and reports directly to the Senior Scientist, Analytical Development.
Responsibilities

• Perform routine analytical testing to characterize TCR-T cell product or manufacturing process using digital PCR assay, flow cytometry, cell-based assay, or ELISA.
• Support lot release testing for TCR-T cell product if needed.
• Support lot release or stability testing of raw materials using plate-based assays or other immunoassays.
• Participate in writing and revising test methods, SOPs and/or other documents as appropriate.
• Participate in tracking assay results and test method performance parameters.
• Participate in assay qualification activities if needed.
• Assist in everyday operation of analytical laboratories, including but not limited to equipment management and reagent inventory.
• Assist in building result dataset for data visualization.
• Complete projects, testing and tasks as assigned and report results by de0adlines.
• Support cross-functional projects with process development, manufacturing, quality control, and quality assurance groups.

Education And Experience

• BS degree in Biochemistry, Cell Biology, or related discipline with 4-6 years of relevant experience, or Master's degree in Immunology, Molecular Biology, or relevant field with 2-4 years of relevant experience.
• Experience working in Cell therapy area is highly desired.
• Experience in executing cell-based assay, flow cytometry-based assay, or digital PCR-based assay, and assist in troubleshooting aforementioned assays.
• Experience working in a regulated environment (e.g. GMP, GLP, or CLIA) is a plus.
• Hands-on experience in performing qPCR (or d(d)PCR), flow cytometry-based assays, and/or cell-based assays is required.
• Hands-on experience on characterizing CAR-T, TCR-T or other immune cell-based therapy products is highly desired.
• Hands-on experience in multi-color flow cytometers and analysis software (e.g. FACSDiva or FlowJo) is highly desired.
• Proficient in molecular biology assay (e.g. qPCR or d(d)PCR) is preferred.
• Detail-oriented in both technical assay execution and data analysis.
• Working knowledge in data visualization software (e.g.Tableau or Spotfire) is a plus.
• Strong verbal, written and presentation skills for scientific studies and projects is desired.
• Enjoy a fast-paced, dynamic team and company environment and able to adjust workload based upon changing priorities.

The anticipated salary range for candidates who will work in Santa Monica, CA is $70,000 - $82,000. The final salary offered to a successful candidate will be dependent on several factors that may include but are not limited to the type and length of experience within the job type and length of experience within the industry, education, etc.
Benefits

• Short-term incentive bonus opportunity
• Equity-based long-term incentive program
• 401(k) plan
• Paid vacation and holidays; paid leaves
• Health benefits including medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage.

DE&I StatementAstraZeneca 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 authorization and employment eligibility verification requirements.