Research Scientist – In vitro display, Biologics discovery

AstraZeneca; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

AstraZeneca in Cambridge is seeking a Research Scientist, Biologics Discovery – In Vitro Display to advance our therapeutic discovery pipeline. You will design and execute experiments across phage, yeast, mRNA, and ribosome display platforms to identify and optimise peptide and antibody candidates.

You will analyse data, apply experimental strategies, and communicate findings clearly within multidisciplinary teams.

Qualifications

• Experience with biologics hit identification and engineering using display technologies (phage, yeast, mRNA, ribosome).
• Molecular biology methods including PCR, cloning, Sanger sequencing.
• Automation to improve discovery efficiency and throughput.
• Awareness of AI/ML methods in therapeutic discovery for hit finding and lead optimisation.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute experiments across display platforms (phage, yeast, mRNA, ribosome).
• Analyze data, interpret results, and communicate findings to project teams.
• Collaborate with Biologics Engineering and cross-functional groups to address discovery challenges.

Skills

Phage display

Yeast display

mRNA display

Ribosome display

Molecular biology

PCR cloning

Automation

AI/ML in discovery

Data interpretation

Record keeping

Team collaboration

Troubleshooting

Education

Graduate level scientist

Job description

Introduction To Role

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Scientist, Biologics Discovery – In Vitro Display to support our therapeutic discovery pipeline and contribute to the development of recombinant peptide and antibodies discovery platforms.

Introduction To Role

We are seeking a highly motivated Research Scientist, Biologics Discovery – In Vitro Display to support our therapeutic discovery pipeline and contribute to the development of recombinant peptide and antibodies discovery platforms. The role will suit an organised and enthusiastic experimental scientist who can contribute to the design and execution of experiments, analyse and interpret data, and communicate findings clearly. Working collaboratively with colleagues across the Biologics Engineering group and broader project teams, the successful candidate will apply scientific curiosity and sound experimental practice to address biologics discovery challenges. The role will involve the discovery, isolation, and optimisation of peptides and other biologics for therapeutic programmes using a range of in vitro display platforms, including phage, yeast, mRNA, and ribosome display. This position offers the opportunity to develop expertise in peptide and antibody discovery, contribute to innovative biologics engineering approaches, and build experience within a collaborative, multidisciplinary drug discovery environment.

Education & Experience Requirements

Graduate level scientist with hands-on laboratory-based experience.

Essential Skills/Experience

• Experience of biologics/peptide hit identification and engineering using display technologies such as phage, yeast, mRNA, and ribosome display including library design/generation, and selection campaigns using diverse enrichment strategies
• Hands-on experience in molecular biology methods and technologies (e.g., PCR, RT-PCR, cloning (ligation-dependent and independent methods), site-directed mutagenesis, Sanger sequencing/analysis, ideally applied to generation of peptide/antibody libraries
• Experience with automation to support discovery efficiency, reproducibility, and throughput.
• Awareness of AI, machine learning, and/or computational methods to therapeutic discovery in support of hit finding, sequence prioritisation or lead optimisation.
• Ability to apply protocols, troubleshoot, interpret experimental results/data and maintain accurate, high quality and up-to-date experimental records
• Strong communication skills in a team environment and an ability to learn and embrace new technologies quickly

Desirable Skills/Experience

• Experience of laboratory-based research in the pharmaceutical industry
• Experience with next-generation sequencing (NGS) applied to peptide/antibody discovery
• Ability to profile compounds (e.g. SPR, BLI, biochemical assays)
• Experience in common expression systems (e.g. mammalian), purification methods (e.g. Akta systems)

When we put unexpected teams in the same room, we unleash 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.

Why AstraZeneca:

Here, your science moves with purpose. You will work with cutting‑edge biotechnology, new drug modalities, and rich data to shape how serious diseases are treated, including opportunities at the earliest stages where impact is greatest. We bring diverse experts together to spark bold ideas, apply innovative methods like AI and novel selection strategies, and learn quickly from real evidence. We value kindness alongside ambition, empowering you to take smart risks, collaborate deeply, and see your discoveries turn into medicines that reach patients.

Our mission is to build an inclusive and equitable environment. We want people to feel they belong at AstraZeneca and Alexion, starting with our recruitment process. We welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of characteristics. We offer reasonable adjustments/accommodations to help all candidates to perform at their best. If you have a need for any adjustments/accommodations, please complete the section in the application form.