Radioconjugate Scientist - IHC

AstraZeneca GmbH; Hamilton; On-site; CAD 82,000 - 108,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flex Benefits & Retirement Savings

4 weeks paid vacation

Personal Days

Job summary

AstraZeneca in Hamilton, Ontario is seeking a Scientist to join the RC Discovery Biology team. You will support early-stage drug development by developing histology and tissue-based assays, with strong hands-on IHC, IF, and imaging experience.

Independent optimization, data interpretation, and collaboration across project groups are essential, including experience with multiplexed methods or spatial tissue analysis assets as applicable. This role is onsite five days a week in Hamilton.

Qualifications

• Hands-on histology, IHC and IF experience in a research setting.
• Experience with tissue imaging and quantitative image analysis.
• Proficiency with HALO or similar image analysis platforms.

Responsibilities

• Develop, optimise, and complete end-to-end histology workflows (tissue processing, embedding, microtomy, staining, imaging).
• Handle radiolabeled tissue samples following Radiation Safety and site requirements.
• Operate automated staining platforms for IHC and IF; troubleshoot and maintain equipment.
• Perform image analysis and support spatial correlation of histology and biomarker data.
• Prepare reports, communicate results, and contribute to project meetings.

Skills

Histology

IHC

IF

Tissue imaging

Image analysis

HALO

Education

BSc or MSc in Biology

Tools

HALO

Automated staining platforms

Job description

Fusion Pharmaceuticals, part of the AstraZeneca Group, is redefining precision oncology with next‑generation radioconjugates that deliver powerful alpha‑emitting payloads directly to tumors. Our pipeline spans multiple first‑in‑class programs—backed by a GMP‑compliant, state‑of‑the‑art radiopharmaceutical facility in Hamilton, we’re turning cutting‑edge science into real‑world impact for patients. Join us at the forefront of radiopharma innovation and be part of turning breakthrough science into meaningful outcomes for patients—come build what’s next with us!

Note: This role is 5 days a week onsite.

Introduction to Role:

The Scientist will join the RC Discovery Biology team in Fusion/AstraZeneca, Hamilton, Ontario. They will support early‑stage drug development by developing and running histology and tissue‑based assays. The role requires strong hands‑on experience in histology, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, tissue imaging, and quantitative image analysis.

The Scientist independently optimises and troubleshoots assays. They interpret and present results, maintain detailed and accurate records of experiments, and contribute to both FFPE and frozen tissues assay reproducibility and laboratory excellence. This role involves applying strong scientific judgement, attention to detail, and the skill to function independently while collaborating efficiently across diverse project groups. Experience with highly multiplexed immunofluorescence methods or sequential cyclic fluorescence staining, spatial tissue analysis, oncology, pre‑clinical drug discovery, or targeted therapeutic modalities is an asset.

Key Accountabilities:

• Independently develop, optimise, validate, and complete end‑to‑end histology workflows, including tissue processing, paraffin embedding, microtomy, cryosectioning, H&E staining, immunohistochemistry (IHC), immunofluorescence (IF), tissue imaging, and quantitative image
• Handle and process radiolabeled tissue samples in accordance with established Radiation Safety procedures and site‑specific requirements
• Independently operate automated staining platforms for IHC and IF, including assay set up, optimisation, routine operation, troubleshooting, and maintenance
• Perform quantitative and qualitative image analysis using digital pathology platforms such as HALO, and support spatial correlation of histology, biomarker expression, and radiopharmaceutical distribution data
• Perform tissue‑based radiopharmaceutical imaging workflows, including preparation and imaging of radiolabeled tissue sections using alpha‑camera and autoradiography platforms, and support integration of microdistribution data with histology and tissue biomarker readouts
• Assess and report data clearly and concisely, with minimal guidance, and demonstrate an understanding of its implications within the broader context of drug discovery
• Maintain high‑quality experimental documentation, contribute to laboratory organisation and assay reproducibility, and proactively troubleshoot experimental and technical challenges
• Contribute to the team meetings and projects (preparing presentations, reports, and communicating results)
• Communicate and share information across projects within RC Discovery and cross‑functionally
• Ensure that own work and, where applicable, the work of peers follows Good Laboratory Practice, Safety, Health and Environment standards, Radiation Safety, applicable AstraZeneca standards, and relevant external regulations

Essential Qualifications:

• BSc or MSc in Biology, Biomedical Sciences, Histology, Pathology, or a related field, or equivalent experience, with relevant hands‑on laboratory experience
• Extensive practical experience with paraffin embedding, microtomy or tissue sectioning, IHC, and IF
• Proven experience using automated staining platforms for both IHC and IF
• Experience with tissue imaging and detailed image quantification; experience with HALO or a similar platform is an asset
• Strong troubleshooting, data interpretation, and presentation skills
• Scientific curiosity, attention to detail, and the ability to understand the rationale behind experiments
• Ability to work autonomously while engaging effectively within multidisciplinary teams

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with multiplexed or cyclic immunofluorescence and spatial tissue analysis, including CODEX or similar platforms
• Experience developing quantitative algorithms for nuclear, membrane, cytoplasmic, immune‑cell, or spatial analysis
• Experience with autoradiography, alpha‑camera imaging, radiolabeled tissue handling, or other spatial/ radiopharmaceutical imaging technique is an asset; willingness and ability to become trained in these workflows is required
• Experience in oncology, tumour biology, tumour micro‑environment, or pre‑clinical drug discovery
• Familiarity with radiopharmaceuticals, radioconjugates, antibody‑drug conjugates, or other targeted therapeutic modalities
• Experience working with radioactive or previously radioactive biological samples is an asset

At AstraZeneca, we foster a collaborative, innovative culture with opportunities to work across teams, functions, and geographies. You’ll join a collaborative, innovative community with opportunities to work across teams, functions, and geographies—where your ideas move fast and your impact is visible. We’re committed to sustainability and equity, taking bold action on climate, access to healthcare, and disease prevention.

AstraZenecais an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion and providing a workplace that is free from discrimination. AstraZeneca is committed to accommodating persons with disabilities. Such accommodation is available on request in respect of all aspects of the recruitment, assessment and selection process and may be requested by emailing [e-mail].

Annual base salary for this position ranges from 82,377.60 to 108,120.60.

AstraZeneca is committed to providing fair and equitable compensation opportunities to all colleagues. Our compensation policies and practices have been designed to allow colleagues to progress through the salary range over time as they progress in their role. The range provided in this posting represents an offer pay range used in a majority of situations. The base pay offered will vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including the candidate's skills and experience, job‑related knowledge, and other specific business and organizational needs. In some cases, offers outside the range may also be considered to address unique circumstances.

In addition, our permanent positions offer an annual Variable Pay Bonus/Short Term Incentive opportunity as well as eligibility to participate in our equity‑based long‑term incentive program (if applicable to role). Benefits offered for permanent roles include a competitive Flex Benefits & Retirement Savings Program, 4 weeks’ paid vacation, and annual Personal Days. Fixed Term Contract/Temporary positions (excluding students) are offered a Contract Benefits Program.

We are using AI as part of the recruitment process.

This advertisement relates to a current vacancy.