Associate Principal Scientist, Vector Design

AstraZeneca is looking for a highly motivated, experienced and strategic Associate Principal Scientist, Vector Design to join our Viral Vector New Modality group within AstraZeneca’s Process Science and Technology (PSAT), Cell Therapy Development and Operation (CTDO) organization. The successful candidate will bring a combination of technical expertise in process development and project management skills. He/she is responsible for leading viral vector process development projects to ensure they meet quality, regulatory, and business goals on time. He/she will coordinate cross-functional teams, manages project timelines and resources, and communicates progress to stakeholders. This role will operate strategically in a highly collaborative environment. This role can be based in either Santa Monica, CA or Gaithersburg, MD.

 
Responsibilities: 

• Viral vector process design: Leading, supporting the design and development of scalable, cost-effective, GMP compliance LVV manufacturing processes to support a variety of ex vivo and in vivo cell therapy programs 

• Project planning and execution: Initiating, planning, and overseeing the entire viral vector process development project lifecycle, from initial concept, lab build to manufacturing tech transfer 

• Cross-functional team leadership: Managing and aligning diverse teams, including scientists and engineers, to ensure project goals are met 

• Technical oversight: Partnering with technical leads to define deliverables, troubleshoot issues, and ensure the scientific and technical aspects of process development are sound 

• Timeline and budget management: Developing and managing project timelines, adjusting as needed, and ensuring the project stays within budget 

• Regulatory compliance: Ensuring all project activities adhere to relevant regulations, such as GMP and ICH guidelines 

• Stakeholder communication: Serving as the main point of contact, providing updates to clients and internal stakeholders, and managing project communications 

• Supply and lab management: managing vendors/suppliers/service providers to ensure smooth viral vector lab operations as needed 

Education and Experience: 

• PhD in relevant Engineering or Science majors and 5+ years of related industry experience or MS with 8+ ye