Senior Research Associate, Genomic Medicines, Vector Development and Operations
AstraZeneca

This is what you will do:

The Senior Research Associate will work within the Vector Development and Operations team on projects related to capsid engineering and AAV manufacturability advancement. The successful candidate is expected to produce research-grade rAAV vectors and manage the production requests according to portfolio prioritization. The candidate will manage and contribute to the documentation of the AAV production and coordination for the AAV vector characterizaiton. In addition, you will collaborate with scientists contributing to capsid design, generation of novel capsid libraries, library screening and related assays to develop AAV vectors with improved properties for therapeutic applications. They will also work closely with scientists in developing and validating novel technologies to improve AAV vector manufacturability.

The candidate must possess good verbal, written, and communication skills.

You will be responsible for:

• Manufacturing research-grade rAAV vectors utilizing suspension cell culture in shaker flasks. Fulfill the vector production requests and internal production prioritization in the timely manner.
• Supporting scientists to optimize AAV capsids by targeted and/or random modifications based on capsid structural biology and library generation; developing molecular biology-based methods for library screening in vitro and in vivo.
• Executing processes for purification of rAAV utilizing various techniques such as depth filtration, centrifugation, column chromatography and TFF.
• Performing analytical tests such as qPCR/ddPCR, SDS-PAGE, infectivity assays as required.
• Filling out batch records, and accurately completing documentation associated with preclinical manufacturing.
• Providing technical support to early development and process development activities when appropriate.
• Collaborating with the Analytical Development team to characterize AAV vectors and verify comparability of vector attributes between different expression systems.
• Participating in internal scientific forums to provide regular updates about the progress of actvities your conduct.
• Maintaining electronic labaratory notebook entries in compliance with SOPs.

You will need to have:

• Bachelor's or Master Degree in Engineering, Biotechnology, Biology, Biochemistry, Virology or related science discipline with a minimum 2 year of relevant experience in the field of gene therapy, preferably AAV
• Understanding of scientific principles and think critically to problem solve and troubleshoot results
• Excellent interpersonal and collaborative skills, and the ability to work independently and effectively in a highly dynamic environment
• Ability to multi-task to meet the company goals
• Excellent organizational and communication skills

We would prefer for you to have:

• Cell culture and molecular biology experience
• AAV viral vector production experience

The annual base salary for this position ranges from $87,000 to $130,000. However, 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) or to receive a retirement contribution (hourly 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 salary (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 authorization and employment eligibility verification requirements.

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