At AstraZeneca, innovation is more than just research. As one of the world's leading pharmaceutical companies, we’re passionate about providing medicines that make a real difference in patient care.

The Cell Biology & Immunology team, within the Discovery Biology department of Discovery Sciences is responsible for the creation of groundbreaking cell systems to support projects in all phases of the drug discovery pipeline. We apply innovations in genome manipulation and in vitro cell systems to support the creation of next generation oncology cell therapy medicines, improve disease understanding and target response to discover new clinical resistance mechanisms.

As our team is growing, we have two exciting opportunities for hardworking cell & molecular biologists to join. You will be leading one of two Cell Biology & Immunology teams within Discovery Biology UK, reporting into the Director of Cell Biology & Immunology.

What you’ll do

As Associate Director in Cell Biology & Immunology, you’ll be a key member of the department, developing and implementing new strategies to interrogate target biology, resistance mechanism and disease and increase the success of immune-modulating therapeutic strategies.

You'll lead scientists involved in critical activities in support of Oncology cell therapy and drug discovery projects. Additionally, you will contribute to and own aspects of the strategic direction of the team. As a key line and matrix leader within the department, you’ll get the opportunity of influence the operational and scientific strategic direction of department

In close partnership with your Director and Team Lead colleagues, as well as scientists across Discovery Sciences, you will establish and lead internal matrix projects as well as external collaborations.

We will also rely on you to:

• Ensure continuous development of your team by setting clear and SMART goals, agreeing on individual development plans and having ongoing performance development oversight for your team

• Ensure that all work in the team is carried out in accordance with Safety, Health & Environment standards and AZ guidelines

• Achieve personal scientific visibility through project contributions and internal presentations at departmental, functional and other meetings as well as through involvement in cross-discipline work-streams and scientific networks

• Present at external conferences and author peer-reviewed publications

Essential for the role

You either hold a PhD in a relevant scientific field with proven experience in drug discovery, or alternatively a first degree in a relevant scientific subject area complemented by extensive relevant drug discovery experience. Having previously led a highly qualified team would be an advantage.

Your collaboration and interpersonal skills are excellent and you have experience of successfully working in global, multi-disciplinary drug discovery teams as well as in partnership with outsourced and external partners.

We also believe that you have a detailed understanding of tumor cell biology as it applies to immunology & drug discovery

You also possess:

• Ability to apply a wide range of cellular and molecular biology methods and technologies (for example genome engineering, reporter gene systems, advanced preclinical cellular models and key phenotypic cellular end-points) to a range of biological targets and therapeutic modalities

• Expertise in developing cellular models and assays in the oncology drug discovery and immunotherapeutic space

• First rate decision making skills, coupled with resourcefulness to see decisions through, even in situations of ambiguity

• Ability to think beyond the boundaries of your role and subject area, challenge the status quo and actively seek opportunities

• A track record of publications in peer reviewed journals

Why AstraZeneca

This is the place to make an impact. Here we ensure everyone can reach their full potential, perform at their best and make a valued contribution to the enterprise.

Location: Cambridge, UK

Salary: Competitive with excellent benefits

So, what’s next

Are you already imagining yourself joining our team? Good, because we can’t wait to hear from you!

We welcome your application before the 20th of September at the latest!

Where can I find out more?

Discovery Sciences Workplace group: https://astrazeneca.workplace.com/groups/2791147624291657

Discovery Biology Workplace group: https://astrazeneca.workplace.com/groups/820592985159895

Date Posted

Closing Date

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.