Research Associate, Analytical Sciences(Flow Cytometry Assay Testing) - Neogene Therapeutics

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 Research Associate, Analytical Sciences will manage the execution of routine testing, including flow cytometry assays, cell-based cytotoxicity assays, or PCR-based assays, to characterize T cell therapy processes and products. Additionally, this role also contributes to the daily operational tasks in Analytical Sciences team. This role is based in Santa Monica, CA and reports directly to the Senior Scientist, Analytical Science.

Essential Functions and Responsibilities

• Perform routine analytical testing to characterize cell products or processes using flow cytometry, live imaging, dPCR or ELISA.
• Perform QC lot release testing of clinical batches, stability study, investigation for raw materials and drug products.
• Participate in writing and revising test methods, SOPs and other documents.
• Participate in tracking assay results and test method performance parameters.
• Support everyday operation of analytical laboratories, including equipment management reagent inventory.
• Help build batch analysis dataset
• Complete projects, testing and tasks as assigned, and report results by deadlines.
• Support projects with process development, manufacturing, quality control, and quality assurance groups.

Required Skills

• Proficient hands-on experience performing flow cytometry-based assays and cell-based assays is required.
• Hands-on experience using multi-color BD flow cytometers (e.g. BD Fortessa, BD Lyrics, or BD Symphony) and analysis software (e.g. FACSDiva, FCS Express, or FlowJo)
• Hands-on experience characterizing CAR-T, TCR-T or other immune cell-based therapy products.
• Experience in molecular biology assay (e.g. qPCR or d(d)PCR) or ELISA.
• Experience in both technical assay execution and data analysis.
• Working knowledge in data visualization software (e.g.Tableau, JMP, or Spotfire).

Education and Experience

• BS degree in Biochemistry, Cell Biology, or related discipline with 2+ years of relevant experience, or Master's degree in Immunology, Molecular Biology, or relevant field with 1+ years of relevant experience.
• Experience implementing multi-color flow cytometry-based assay (8+ colors), cell-based assay, or digital PCR-based assay, and help troubleshoot assays.
• Experience working in cell therapy area.
• Experience working 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

• Short-term incentive bonus opportunity
• Equity-based long-term incentive program
• 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.