Associate Principal Scientist - Protein Engineering for Oncology Cell Therapy Unit

Associate Principal Scientist - Protein Engineering for Oncology Cell Therapy Unit

Gaithersburg, MD

Are you ready to make a significant impact in the field of Oncology? We are looking for an Associate Principal Scientist with in-depth expertise in protein and molecular engineering to support our novel cell modalities within the Oncology Cell Therapy Unit (CTU) at AstraZeneca. This is an exciting opportunity to independently conceptualize and develop novel engineering approaches for the development of next-generation technologies for CAR-T cell therapies. Join us and learn from our diverse team of the brightest minds as we seamlessly and inclusively work together. It's where the best of both academia and industry come together to share knowledge, grow together and build meaningful careers.

Accountabilities:

As an Associate Principal Scientist, you will lead various aspects of protein engineering CAR-T therapy. This includes designing synthetic immunology focusing on signaling molecules to augment the function of CAR-T cells to overcome different tumor-mediated immune-suppression mechanisms. You will also exploit other engineering modalities, including logic gating CAR-T cell targeting to enhance the efficacy and safety profile for treating solid cancers. You will directly support protein engineering approaches focused on the next-generation off-the-shelf CAR-T, with an emphasis on developing novel molecular solutions to mitigate the mechanisms that drive alloreactivity. You will regularly interface with the Biologic Engineering and Discovery Science counterpart teams to ensure alignment and cohesive vision in implementing the development strategy technologies. Other functions may arise by providing ad hoc support across different teams within the CTU at AstraZeneca.

Essential Skills/Experience:

• Ph.D. in biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology, or other relevant subject area with a minimum of eight years of industry combined with post-doctoral experience
• Extensive and demonstrated expertise (i.e., high-impact publications) in structural biology and protein/structure function
• In-depth protein engineering experience in the context of controlling cell biology
• Computational protein design/modeling
• Direct experience with engineered T cells
• Structural immunology knowledge (e.g., mono- and dual-scFv, mono and biparatopic nanobody, TCR structure/function)
• Strong molecular biology skills
• Highly team-oriented, organized, capable of significant multitasking, and able to manage multiple projects with full independence
• Consistent record of conceiving research projects and directing/carrying out their execution
• Supervisory experience
• Experience designing, producing, and using viral vectors to genetically modify T cells
• Extensive cellular molecular biology skills
• Dexterous with multi-parameter flow cytometry and FACS-sorting
• Supports a team and works collaboratively with project managers to ensure the efficient relay of information and forward translation of data

When we put unexpected teams in the same room, we unleash 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.

Why AstraZeneca:

At AstraZeneca, we are on a mission to eliminate cancer as a cause of death. As part of our Oncology R&D team, you will be at the forefront of applying science to studies and using innovative approaches to create new possibilities. We take an inter-disciplinary approach including novel biomarkers, AI, novel endpoints and cutting-edge trial designs to shape the future of our business and Oncology. We foster a mindset of courage, where everyone is empowered to step up, innovate and work at pace. We lead through true collaboration, building collective wisdom by giving everyone a chance to input. It's science with an impact-making a difference for patients and people around the world. Our pipeline is a testament to our growth, both now and in the future.

About Our Gaithersburg Oncology Hub

Our Gaithersburg, Maryland facility creates life-changing medicines for people around the world. This campus employs more than 3,500 experts in our field and is only a short drive from Washington, DC. This modern and vibrant scientific campus is the home of R&D and Oncology in the US. Here, we play host to some of the most cutting-edge technology and lab spaces, all designed to