Senior Scientist, Bioconjugation

AstraZeneca is a global, science-led, patient-focused biopharmaceutical company that focuses on the discovery, development, and commercialisation of prescription medicines for some of the world’s most serious diseases. But we’re more than one of the world’s leading pharmaceutical companies.

About Our Gaithersburg Oncology Hub

The Gaithersburg site (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GOvxXGjBd1w) employs more than 3,500 experts in our field and is only a short drive from Washington, DC. Here, we play host to some of the most cutting-edge technology and lab spaces, all designed to inspire collaboration and cross-functional science. We are dedicated to creating a culture of inclusion and collaboration.

The Gaithersburg campus offers a variety of amenities to help boost productivity and help keep our employees happy and healthy. This includes a fitness center, employee healthcare clinic, electric vehicle charging stations, dry cleaning, full-service cafeteria, game rooms, community garden and much more.

Ready to make a difference? Apply today and join us in our mission to eliminate cancer as a cause of death!

If you’re curious to know more, please contact Bobbi Poole, our Talent Acquisition Partner.

Senior Scientist, Bioconjugation

Are you ready to take our leading Oncology pipeline to the next level? As a Senior Scientist in Bioconjugation, you will play a pivotal role in advancing the development of cutting-edge antibody drug conjugates across various therapeutic domains. We are seeking a driven and proficient Senior Scientist, Bioconjugation with a strong foundation in drug discovery. This role offers an exciting opportunity to spearhead and contribute to multifaceted drug development endeavors.

Typical Accountabilities

As a Senior Scientist, you will execute conjugation, purification, and characterization of ADCs, ranging from milligram to gram quantities, utilizing a variety of established methodologies. You will innovate and optimize novel conjugation techniques to enhance ADC properties and coordinate and streamline conjugation workflows within a collaborative team environment. You will also engage in cross-functional collaboration with diverse scientific teams spanning therapeutic areas, chemistry, and process development to drive research progress and foster technological breakthroughs. Leading and overseeing laboratory operations, including equipment maintenance and adherence to safety protocols, will also be part of your responsibilities.

Essential Skills/Experience

• PhD in Organic Chemistry, Chemical Biology, Biochemistry, or related field with 0-3 yrs relevant experience OR Master's degree in Organic Chemistry, Chemical Biology, Biochemistry, or related field with at least 7 years of relevant experience.
• Extensive hands-on expertise in designing and generating antibody drug conjugates.
• Proficiency in analytical characterization techniques such as Hydrophobic Interaction Chromatography (HIC)-HPLC, Size Exclusion Chromatography (SEC), Liquid Chromatography–Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS), Ion-Exchange (IEX), and Reversed Phase (RP)-HPLC.
• Hands-on experience in protein purification using HIC, IEX, SEC, and affinity chromatography, preferably with GE AKTA FPLC.
• Consistent record of working autonomously, adeptly planning and organizing tasks, and prioritizing activities to meet project deadlines.
• Demonstrated skill in protocol optimization and troubleshooting with a problem solving approach, along with meticulous record-keeping in laboratory notebooks.
• Track record of scientific innovation showcased through publications, patents, and presentations at scientific conferences.
• Exceptional written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex scientific data effectively to cross-functional teams and senior management.

Desirable Skills/Experience:

• Experience in protein engineering and production would be advantageous.
• Familiarity with coordinating activities with Contract Research Organizations (CROs).

Competitive remuneration and benefits apply

We offer a competitive Total Reward program including a market driven base salary, bonus and long term incentive. We have a generous paid time off program and a comprehensive benefits package.

Where can I find out more?

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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.