Development Scientist III, Viral Vector Analytical Development

Job Description

At AstraZeneca, we win through the science, it is at the heart of our every success. Every decision is rooted in the limitless possibilities of what science can do. We push the boundaries of science to deliver life-changing medicines. This purpose underpins everything we do. It gives us a reason to come to work every day. It reminds us why we exist as a company. It helps us deliver benefits to patients and build new value for shareholders. It also sets the context for our employees’ activities and the roles of our teams, partners, and other collaborators. AstraZeneca has a dynamic environment that fosters collaboration and innovation. We attract top minds, and we nurture and build top talent.

Introduction to role:

Are you ready to make a difference in the world of genomic medicine? As a Development Scientist III in Viral Vector Analytical Development at Alexion, you will be at the forefront of innovation, working closely with the Genomic Medicine and Viral Vector Product Development teams. In this role, you will develop and test biochemical and biophysical methods to characterize recombinant Adeno-Associated Viral (rAAV) vectors, while collaborating closely with a dynamic group of scientists. Your expertise will contribute to regulatory submissions, and you will serve as a subject matter authority, driving Alexion's genomic medicine portfolio forward.

Accountabilities:

• Develop, optimize, and implement biochemical and biophysical methods to quantify product and process impurities, and perform extended protein characterization of rAAV vectors.
• Craft and complete experiments, review and analyze data, and qualify assays in a lab setting.
• Support tech transfer of biophysical assays to internal teams and external manufacturing/testing organizations for release and characterization testing; assist with assay troubleshooting and lab investigations.
• Develop presentations for internal and external audiences. Author and review standard operating procedures (SOPs), technical reports, and assist with the preparation of analytical sections for regulatory submissions (IND, BLA, etc.).
• Serve as analytical lead on cross-functional CMC teams which may include members of QC, Upstream/Downstream Process Development, Manufacturing, QA, and Regulatory.

Essential Skills/Experience:

• BS in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, or related field with 10+ years of relevant experience, a MS with 8+ years of experience, or PhD with 4+ years of experience.
• Strong hands-on experience in the development, qualification/validation, and transfer of biochemical and biophysical methods for assessing viral vectors and/or rAAV products, including liquid chromatography, dynamic and multi-angle light scattering, capillary gel electrophoresis, and imaged capillary isoelectric focusing. Prior experience with mass spectrometry, surface plasmon resonance, analytical ultracentrifugation or other extended protein characterization techniques is a plus.
• Demonstrated ability to use standard office software (Excel, PowerPoint, Word, etc.), data analysis software (Chromeleon, OpenLab, JMP, etc.), and eNotebooks software.
• Strong analytical attitude and problem-solving skills.
• Outstanding organizational and time management skills, ability to prioritize multiple demands and work efficiently with great attention to detail.
• Excellent interpersonal and collaborative skills, and the ability to work independently and effectively in a highly dynamic environment.
• The duties of this role are conducted in a mixed office and lab environment. As is typical of a lab-based role, employees must be able, with or without an accommodation to: lift 15 pounds unassisted; work comfortably in a controlled environment with and around biological, infectious, and hazardous materials; gown/degown PPE; use a computer; engage in communications via phone, video, and electronic messaging; engage in problem solving and non-linear thought, analysis, and dialogue; collaborate with others; maintain general availability during standard business hours.

Desirable Skills/Experience:

• Candidates should be self-starters, comfortable with autonomy, and embrace opportunities to develop new genomic medicines as part of a dynamic team within Alexion.

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.

The annual base pay for this position ranges from $138,393 to $207,589. Hourly and salaried non-exempt employees will also be paid overtime pay when working qualifying overtime hours. 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), to receive a retirement contribution (hourly roles), and commission payment eligibility (sales 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 pay (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.

At AstraZeneca's Alexion division, you'll find an environment where innovation thrives! Our commitment to patients drives everything we do. We are dedicated to understanding their journeys and tackling the toughest challenges they face. With a rapidly expanding portfolio and an entrepreneurial spirit, you'll have the opportunity to grow your career while making a meaningful impact on the lives of those living with rare diseases.

Ready to join us on this exciting journey? Apply now to become part of our team!

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.