Senior Scientist, Virology Research

Introduction to Role

Here at AstraZenecayoullhave the opportunity to make a difference in peoples lives every day. As a Senior Scientist in theVirology Research Teamwithin the Early Infectious Disease (eID) unit inGaithersburg MDyoullplay a pivotal role in channeling our scientific capabilities to positivelyimpactpatients lives.

The Virology Research Team at AstraZeneca supports the discovery and development of biologics and vaccines targeting key viral pathogens. Ourexpertisein cell-based assay design virology and laboratory automation powers the screening down-selection and characterization of therapeutic candidates across an industry-leading pipeline.

We are seeking a Senior Scientist with broad virologicalexpertiseacross multiple virus families deep hands-on experience in cell-based assay development and genuine enthusiasm for buildingoptimizing and scaling the tools that drive drug discovery. This role is ideal for someone driven by the intellectual rigor of solving assay science challenges How do we design the right tool How do we make it robust scalable and fit-for-purpose andwho is energized by enabling multiple teams simultaneously. It is well-suited for someone who thrives in technically demanding work and values being at the gates of which therapeutic candidates advance through the pipeline. The position ispredominantlylabbench-based in a fast-paced collaborative environment.

Accountabilities

• Virological Subject Matter Expertise:Serve as the go-to virological expert across multiple concurrent pipeline programs; advise cross-functional teams on virus biology assay feasibility and experimental strategy.

• Cell-Based Assay Development & Execution:Independently design developoptimize andvalidatecell-based assays (neutralization antiviral reporter-based functional and primary immune cell assays) to evaluate potency and mechanism of action from concept through high-throughput execution.

• Virus Production & Stock Management:Propagate titrate characterize andmaintainvirus stocks spanning multiple virus families; ensure rigorous quality control and inventory management.

• Automation & Scale:Advance automated workflows and implementnew solutionsto increase throughput reproducibility and data quality.

• Data Analysis & Troubleshooting:Analyze complex datasets troubleshoot technical challenges and interpret results to guidenextsteps with minimal direction.

• Documentation & Scientific Communication:Prepare clear protocols quantitative analyses and technical summaries;maintainaudit-ready documentation. Present findings internally andexternally;contribute to peer-reviewed publications.

• Innovation & Mentorship:Evaluate emerging technologies to advance assay design; mentor junior team members in technical skills and scientific rigor.

Essential Skills/Experience

• Education:Ph.D. with 3 years M.S. with 8 years or B.S. with 10 years of relevant experience in Virology Microbiology Molecular Biology Immunology Cell Biology or a related discipline.

• Virology Breadth:Advanced knowledge of virology techniques including viral propagation quantification (qPCR TCID50 plaque assays FFA) and neutralization assays across multiple virus families.

• Assay Science Depth:Proventrack recordof developing and troubleshooting cell-based assays from concept to high-throughput execution.

• Technical Expertise:Experience with multi-mode plate reader systems (absorbance luminescence fluorescence) image cytometry high-content imaging and/or flow cytometry;proficiencyin core molecular biology techniques (transfection nucleic acid extraction PCR immunoblotting).

• Automation:Demonstratedability to learn andadaptnew technologies; experience with laboratory automation platforms is a plus.

• Working Style:Independently manages multiple concurrent projects whilemaintainingscientific rigor and meticulous documentation. Strong collaborative skills witha track recordof team-based delivery.

• Communication:Record of preparing scientific reports (manuscripts technical summaries) and oral presentations.

Desirable Skills/Experience

• Familiarity with assay qualification/validation principles and statistical approaches to assay development

• Experience with virus reverse genetics systems

When we put unexpected teams in the same room we unleash bold thinking with the power to inspire life-changing medicines. This is a full-time onsite position balanced by individual flexibility. AstraZeneca offers an inspiring environment where every setback is a chance to improve and where your skillset makesan important differenceto patients across the globe.

Ready to make a difference Apply now!