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 Summary
The Senior Associate, Analytical Development will focus on the development of molecular biological assays for characterizing engineered T-cell therapy. Additionally, you will contribute to the establishment and development of laboratory automation for high-throughput processing. This role is based in Santa Monica, CA, and reports directly to the Senior Engineer, Analytical Development.
Responsibilities

• Develop molecular biological assays for characterizing T-cell therapy drug substance and drug products using qPCR, dPCR and NGS.
• Perform routine assays for drug product release and characterization.
• Complete projects, testing and tasks as assigned and report results by deadlines.
• Improve the data management of analytical science, ex. Laboratory automation, digitalization, and data visualization.
• Support projects with research, process development and manufacturing groups.

Education and Experience

• MS in Molecular Biology, Immunology, Cell Biology, or related scientific discipline OR BS (in aforementioned disciplines) with 3 years relevant industry experience.
• Experience in designing, building assays and analyzing data using multiple molecular biological platforms, e.g. qPCR, dPCR, Illumina Miseq, Oxford Nanopore.
• Experience in statistical analysis to analyze complex biological datasets.
• Experience working with Python/R in bioinformatics data analysis, SQL data management, and data visualization tools such as Power BI or Tableau.
• Experience working with laboratory automation systems, including scripting, operating, and maintenance.
• Hands-on experience in nucleotide extraction, PCR and library preparation.
• Hands-on experience in laboratory liquid handler such as Hamilton or Tecan system.
• Hands-on experience in other immunoassays (flow cytometry, ELISA)
• Experience in both technical assay development and data analysis.
• Write and present on scientific projects.

When we put unexpected teams in the same room, we fuel bold thinking with the power to inspire life-changing medicines. In-person working gives us the platform we need to connect, work at pace and challenge perceptions. That's why we work, on average, a minimum of three days per week from the office. But that doesn't mean we're not flexible. We balance the expectation of being in the office while respecting individual flexibility. Join us in our unique and ambitious world.
The annual base salary for this position ranges from $71,200 to $80,100. However, base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related experience. If hired, employee will be in an "at-will position" and we reserve the right to modify base salary (and 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.
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 Statement
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 authorization and employment eligibility verification requirements.