Associate Scientist III
AstraZeneca

This is what you will do:

The Exploratory Biology group is seeking a highly motivated and experienced cell culture scientist to conduct basic research and establish assays to investigate rare neurological diseases and advance therapeutic candidates. The primary job responsibility will focus on the development, maintenance, and utilization of cellular models of rare neurological diseases. Prior experience should include some or all of the following: human iPSCs and iPSC-derived 2D neuronal cultures, mixed neuronal/glial models, 3D spheroid/organoid models, and use of CRISPR tools to introduce defined genetic changes to cells in culture. The incumbent will also be expected to participate in the development and optimization of cellular assays to advance our understanding of rare neurological diseases and advance therapeutic candidates.

You will be responsible for:

• Maintaining and expanding primary human cells, human iPSCs, and the nervous system cell types that you will differentiate from them, to model rare neurological diseases and support an emerging cellular assay toolbox.
• Utilizing CRISPR tools to introduce disease-relevant genetic modifications into model cell lines.
• Investigating, developing, and optimizing cellular assays to understand disease, evaluate potential drug targets, and advance therapeutic candidate molecules (both biotherapeutics and small molecules)
• Communicating technical approaches, results, conclusions, etc. to management and colleagues in a clear and concise fashion.
• Demonstrating an ability to interrogate the scientific literature to inform and troubleshoot technical work.
• Conducting all activities in accordance with the AstraZeneca Values.
• This is a laboratory-based position, therefore, most duties will be conducted in a laboratory environment.

You will need to have:

• BS/MS in relevant discipline plus 2-4 years of industry experience
• Experience developing and optimizing cellular models of nervous system function that include human iPSC-derived 2D neuronal cultures, mixed neuronal/glial models, and 3D spheroid/organoid models.
• Familiarity with the use of CRISPR tools to introduce defined genetic changes into these models.

• Strong collaborative and interpersonal skills and the ability to work as part of a highly matrixed team.
• Excellent oral and written English language communication skills are essential.
• Ability to successfully execute and manage multiple projects simultaneously.

We would prefer for you to have:

• Experience with molecular biology, electrophysiology, high content screening (image-based assays) or proteostasis research are desirable but not essential.

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.

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