Senior Scientist - Ex Vivo Patient-Derived Platforms & FACS

About AstraZeneca AstraZeneca is a global, science-led biopharmaceutical company that focuses on the discovery, development, and commercialization of prescription medicines in Oncology, Rare Diseases, and BioPharmaceuticals. Our mission is to push the boundaries of science to deliver life-changing medicines. Position Overview We are seeking an exceptional Senior Scientist to join our Oncology Translational Science team. This role will focus on advancing our understanding of tumor immunology and therapeutic response through sophisticated ex vivo patient-derived platforms and multi-parameter flow cytometry. The ideal candidate will drive innovation in assay development, lead translational research initiatives for Tier 1 assets, and contribute to predictive biomarker strategies that bridge preclinical findings with clinical outcomes. Key Responsibilities Ex Vivo Platform Development & Execution Lead end-to-end workflows for patient-derived tumor platforms including PDTF (patient-derived tumor fragments) and tissue slice cultures Design and execute ex vivo pharmacodynamic profiling studies to evaluate AstraZeneca and competitor therapeutic candidates Establish robust tumor/immune cell co-culture systems to assess therapeutic efficacy, including cytotoxicity, immune cell activation, and target engagement Process and analyze primary patient specimens with meticulous attention to sample integrity and experimental reproducibility Advanced Flow Cytometry & Immunophenotyping Design, optimize, and implement high-dimensional spectral flow cytometry panels (20-30+ colors) for comprehensive immune profiling of patient tumors Conduct antigen density quantification, intracellular signaling assessments, and functional immune cell characterization Perform single-cell sorting, fluorescent antibody labeling, and specialized applications including trogocytosis and proliferation assays Utilize platforms including Cytek Aurora, BD FACSymphony, and other state-of-the-art cytometry instruments Assay Development & Optimization Develop and validate novel flow cytometry-based assays to evaluate immune cell function, T-cell modulation, and therapeutic mechanisms of action Optimize cellular assays including cytotoxicity, phosphorylation, proliferation, and cytokine secretion readouts Generate stable cell lines using lentiviral transduction and electroporation-based methods for target validation and assay development Establish CAR-T cell generation protocols and functional evaluation pipelines Translational Research & Data Integration Integrate multi-modal readouts (flow cytometry, cytokine profiling, target engagement) to provide comprehensive pharmacodynamic assessments Develop predictive models linking ex vivo responses to clinical outcomes, supporting patient stratification strategies Collaborate with computational biology teams to build machine learning pipelines for therapy response prediction Contribute scientific findings to regulatory submissions (IND), publications, and patent applications Cross-Functional Collaboration & Leadership Partner with Discovery, Clinical Development, and Biomarker teams to align translational strategies with program objectives Serve as the ex vivo platform subject matter expert for oncology programs, particularly novel immune engagers and targeted therapies Mentor junior scientists and provide technical guidance on complex immunological assays Present data at internal reviews, cross-functional meetings, and external scientific conferences Required Qualifications Education: MS in Immunology, Cell Biology, Cancer Biology or related discipline with 5+ years of experience, or BS with 10+ years of relevant pharmaceutical/biotechnology research experience Technical Expertise: Expert-level proficiency in multi-parameter flow cytometry including panel design, spectral cytometry, intracellular staining, and cell sorting Demonstrated experience with ex vivo patient-derived tumor platforms (PDTF, tissue slices, or organoids) Strong background in tumor immunology, immune cell biology, and cancer drug discovery Hands-on expertise in T-cell functional assays, tumor/immune co-cultures, and primary cell isolation/enrichment Proficiency in stable cell line generation using lentiviral or electroporation methods Experience with cytokine detection platforms (ELISA, MSD) and cellular viability/cytotoxicity assays Data Analysis & Documentation: Advanced skills in flow cytometry analysis software (FlowJo, SpectroFlo, BD FACSDiva) Proficiency in statistical analysis and data visualization (GraphPad Prism or equivalent) Excellent technical writing skills for protocols, SOPs, study reports, and regulatory documentation Preferred Qualifications Experience supporting IND submissions and regulatory filings Track record of scientific publications in peer-reviewed journals Familiarity with bispecific antibodies, immune engagers (T-cell, NK-cell, neutrophil), or CAR-T therapies Experience with machine learning approaches for biomarker discovery Knowledge of GLP/GCP principles and quality systems Key Competencies Scientific Innovation: Ability to develop novel methodologies and adapt emerging technologies to address complex biological questions Problem-Solving: Creative approach to troubleshooting experimental challenges and optimizing assay performance Collaboration: Strong interpersonal skills with ability to work effectively across multidisciplinary teams Communication: Clear and concise presentation of complex data to diverse audiences Project Management: Excellent organizational skills with ability to manage multiple priorities simultaneously Attention to Detail: Meticulous experimental execution and comprehensive documentation practices What We Offer Opportunity to work on cutting-edge Tier 1 oncology assets with potential to transform patient outcomes Access to state-of-the-art instrumentation and technology platforms Collaborative, science-driven culture that values innovation and scientific rigor Competitive compensation package including salary, bonus, equity, and comprehensive benefits Professional development opportunities and clear career progression pathways AstraZeneca's Commitment 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. To Apply: Please submit your CV and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience with ex vivo platforms and advanced flow cytometry applications. AstraZeneca is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The annual base pay (or hourly rate of compensation) for this position ranges from $ 118,870.40 to $ 178,305.60. Our positions offer eligibility for various incentives—an opportunity to receive short-term incentive bonuses, equity-based awards for salaried roles and commissions for sales roles. Benefits offered include qualified retirement programs, paid time off (i.e., vacation, holiday, and leaves), as well as health, dental, and vision coverage in accordance with the terms of the applicable plans. Date Posted 30-jun-2026 Closing Date 06-jul-2026 Our mission is to build an inclusive environment where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and employees. In furtherance of that mission, we welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their protected characteristics. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please complete the corresponding section in the application form. AstraZeneca is a global, science-led, patient-focused biopharmaceutical company. We focus on discovering, developing and commercialising prescription medicines for some of the world’s most serious diseases. But we are more than one of the world’s leading pharmaceutical companies. At AstraZeneca, we’re dedicated to being a Great Place to Work. Where you are empowered to push the boundaries of science, challenge convention and unleash your entrepreneurial spirit. To embrace differences and take bold actions to drive the change needed to meet global healthcare and sustainability challenges. There is no better place to make a difference in medicine, patients, and society. An inclusive culture where you will connect different thinking to generate new and valuable opportunities. Where you will find a commitment to lifelong learning, growth and development for all. Our Inclusion & Diversity (I&D) mission is to create an inclusive and equitable environment where people belong, using the power of our diversity to push the boundaries of science to deliver life-changing medicines to patients. Inclusion and diversity are fundamental to the success of our company, because innovation requires breakthrough ideas that only come from a diverse workforce empowered to challenge conventional thinking. We’re curious about science and the advancement of knowledge. We find creative ways to approach new challenges. We’re driven to make the right choices and be accountable for our actions. As an organisation centred around what makes us human, we put a big focus on people. Across our business, we want colleagues to wake up excited about their day at the office, in the field, or in the lab. Along with our purpose to bring life-changing medicines to people across the globe, we have a promise to you: to help you realise the full breadth of your potential. Here, you’ll do work that has the potential to change your life and improve countless others. And, together with your team, you’ll shape a culture that unites and inspires us every day. This is your life at AstraZeneca.