Associate Principal Scientist – CAR-T Discovery

AstraZeneca GmbH; Gaithersburg (MD); Hybrid; USD 142,000 - 214,000; Full time

Job summary

AstraZeneca is seeking an established scientific expert to independently conceptualize and develop novel CAR-T approaches. You will lead defined workstreams within CAR-T Discovery, design complex experiments, interpret data, and mentor junior scientists.

You will contribute to project direction and technology development for solid and hematological malignancies within Oncology Cell Therapy. The role requires leading cross-functional teams, ensuring GLP/Safety compliance, and presenting data in

Qualifications

• MS or equivalent with 3–6 years of scientific experience in industry, or 8–10+ years in biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology or immunology.
• Demonstrated expertise in molecular and cellular biology and in vivo cancer biology models.
• Hands-on experience with engineered T cells, viral vectors and flow cytometry is essential.

Responsibilities

• Independently conceives and leads research workstreams within CAR-T Discovery.
• Designs and executes complex in vitro and in vivo experiments and reports data.
• Provides scientific leadership and mentoring to junior scientists and cross-functional partners.

Skills

Molecular biology

Cell biology

Immunology assays

Transfection

Transduction

In vivo models

Flow cytometry

Education

MS in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Immunology or related field

Tools

Viral vectors production

Job description

An established scientific expert who independently conceptualizes and develops novel approaches for next-generation CAR-T cell therapies. Leads defined workstreams within CAR-T Discovery, designs and executes complex in vitro and in vivo experiments, interprets and reports high-quality scientific data, and provides technical leadership and mentoring to junior scientists. Contributes to project direction and technology development for solid and hematological malignancies within the Oncology Cell Therapy Unit.

Accountabilities

• Independently conceives, designs and leads discrete research workstreams within CAR-T Discovery, applying in-depth expertise in synthetic immunology, protein/cell engineering and functional immunology to advance next-generation and off-the-shelf (allogeneic) CAR-T therapies.
• Designs, executes and troubleshoots complex in vitro and cell-based experiments (primary T cells, viral vector engineering, multi-parameter flow cytometry and FACS-sorting), generating, interpreting and reporting data with little or no guidance.
• Extensive in vivo skillset including animal handling, syngeneic murine, xenograft and PDX tumor models, standard routes of dosing and engraftment, tissue processing, PK/PD and efficacy studies.
• Experience with complex in vivo modeling including intratibial and intracranial tumor implantation, orthotopic xenograft models, in vivo imaging of luciferase labelled tumor models.
• Develops novel engineering solutions — e.g. logic-gated targeting, armoring, and approaches to mitigate alloreactivity and tumor-mediated immunosuppression — translating concepts into testable strategies.
• Interfaces regularly with Biologics Engineering, Discovery Science and other cross-functional partners to ensure alignment and cohesive delivery of the technology roadmap.
• Provides scientific and technical leadership to junior scientists; plans and prioritizes own and others' work to meet project milestones.
• Presents and defends data at project, departmental and cross-functional forums; contributes to publications, patents and external scientific communications.
• Maintains and shares a broad understanding of the external CAR-T and cell therapy landscape to inform strategy and de-risk approaches.
• Ensures own work, and the work of peers, is fully compliant with Good Laboratory Practice, Safety, Health and Environment standards and all other relevant internal AstraZeneca standards and external regulations.

Essential

• M.S with 3-6 yrs of scientific experience or equivalent experience in an industry setting (8-10+) in biochemistry, molecular biology, cell biology, immunology or a related field.
• Demonstrated expertise in molecular and cellular biology, immunological assays, cell transfection and transduction, and in vivo animal models of cancer biology, supported by high-impact publications or comparable scientific contributions.
• In-depth experience in protein and/or cell engineering experience in the context of controlling or modulating cell biology, including direct hands-on experience with engineered T cells.
• Strong molecular biology skills, including design, production and use of viral vectors for the genetic modification of T cells.
• Proficiency in multiparameter flow cytometry and FACS-sorting.
• Proven ability to conceive, design, independently lead and execute research projects from initiation through completion, prior supervisory or people-management experience is preferred.
• Highly collaborative and team-oriented, with strong organizational and project management skills and ability to manage multiple priorities with a high degree of independence

Desirable

• Experience with allogeneic / off-the-shelf platforms and gene editing (CRISPR/Cas, base editing, AAV) and in vivo modeling of these platforms.
• Experience with humanized mouse model systems.
• Publications, patents and/or pipeline projects in a pharmaceutical or biotechnology setting.

The annual base pay for this position ranges from $142,377.60 - $213,566.40. Our positions offer eligibility for various incentives—an opportunity to receive short-term incentive bonuses, equity-based awards for salaried roles and commissions for sales roles. Benefits offered include qualified retirement programs, paid time off (i.e., vacation, holiday, and leaves), as well as health, dental, and vision coverage in accordance with the terms of the applicable plans.

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, courage, curiosity, and collaboration fuel a relentless focus on transforming cancer outcomes, powered by a pipeline that fuses cutting-edge science with advanced technology. You will work in an environment where unexpected teams come together to spark bold ideas, backed by meaningful investment and a clear path from discovery to impact. We value kindness alongside ambition, and we empower leaders at every level to ask sharp questions, take smart risks, and turn data into decisions that help patients sooner.

Our mission is to build an inclusive environment where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and employees. In furtherance of that mission, we welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their protected characteristics. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please complete the corresponding section in the application form.