Research Associate, Analytical Sciences (Cell-based Assays)

---

Job description

At AstraZeneca's Oncology R&D division, we follow the science to explore and innovate. We are working towards treating, preventing, modifying, and even curing some of the world's most complex diseases. Here we have the potential to grow our pipeline and positively impact the lives of billions of patients around the world. We are committed to making a difference and have built our business around our passion for science. Now we are fusing data and technology with the latest scientific innovations to achieve the next wave of breakthroughs.

Position Summary

The Associate, Analytical Sciences will manage routine testing, including cell culture, multi-parametric flow cytometry, immunoassay, and cell-based functional assays, to characterize engineered T cell therapy processes and products. Additionally, you will contribute to the daily operational tasks within the Analytical Science team. This role is based in Santa Monica, CA and reports directly to the Director, Product Analytical Science.

Responsibilities

• Perform routine analytical testing for cell culture/passaging, immunophenotyping using multi-parametric flow cytometry, plate-based immunoassays, and luminescent-based cell functional assays (depending on candidate's technological expertise) towards promoting process development and product understanding.
• Work with Analytical method developers and quality control personnel to improve test methods, draft SOPs and other documents.
• Be a necessary member of the method monitoring program by documenting test method performance parameters.
• Support everyday lab operations of analytical laboratories, including critical reagent qualification, equipment management and reagent inventory.
• Maintain, calibrate and operate analytical equipment and instrumentation that is used routine execution.
• Complete laboratory tasks or experiments as assigned, and report results by assigned deadlines.
• Support projects with Process Development and Quality groups.

Education and Experience

• BS degree in Biochemistry, Cell Biology, or related discipline with 1+ years of relevant experience, or Master's degree in Immunology, Molecular Biology, or relevant field.
• Experience in mammalian cell culture is required.
• Demonstrate proficiency with implementing plate-based immunoassays (e.g. ELISA, ELLA, Luminex, AlphaLISA), mammalian cell-based potency assays (e.g co-culture, cytotoxicity, proliferation), and multi-color flow cytometry (e.g. BD Fortessa, BD Lyrics, or BD Symphony).
• Excellent skills with using Microsoft excel (can maintain complex spreadsheets), Word, and PowerPoint in a scientific environment.
• Experience using data analysis software (e.g. Prism, JMP, FACSDiva, FlowJo, CytEpert, FCS Express SoftMax Pro).
• Experience working in cell therapy area is.
• Experience with Good Documentation Practices and routine testing execution in a regulated environment (e.g. GMP, GLP, or CLIA).

When we put unexpected teams in the same room, we fuel 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 salary for this position ranges from $71,200 to $89,000. However, base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related experience. If hired, employee will be in an "at-will position" and we reserve the right to modify base salary (and 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.

Benefits

• 401(k) plan
• Paid vacation and holidays; paid leaves
• Health benefits including medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage.

DE&I Statement

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.

<!– job description page –>