Research Scientist - Target Discovery Cambridge, East of England, England
Job description
Are you excited about Early Oncology? Would you like have an impact on patients’ lives and contribute to eliminate cancer as a cause of death? If so, then join us!
About AstraZeneca
AstraZeneca is a global, science-led, patient-focused biopharmaceutical company that focuses on the discovery, development, and commercialisation of prescription medicines for some of the world’s most serious diseases. But we’re more than one of the world’s leading pharmaceutical companies. At AstraZeneca, we are pioneering new frontiers by identifying and treating patients earlier, working towards the aim of eliminating cancer as a cause of death.
Business area
As a Research Scientist, in the Functional Genomics Centre (FGC) in Cambridge, UK, you’ll play a pivotal role in Target Discovery to positively impact on changing patients’ lives. Our mission is to accelerate the development of new treatments for people with cancer by identifying novel targets and resistance mechanisms to create new cancer medicines. Our centre is collaboration between AstraZeneca and Cancer Research UK who have joined forces to forge a world-leading centre of expertise in genetic screens, cancer models, CRISPR vector design and computational approaches to big data.
Be a part of a team working in an exciting and vibrant environment, applying innovative technology to drive cancer therapies forward. With our centre located in the Milner Therapeutic Institute, join the heart of a new initiative bringing academic and industry into closer proximity in order to connect and accelerate research.
As one of our Research Scientist you will be a responsible for using pooled CRISPR to discovery new cancer targets. From the generation of cell lines and optimisation of assay condition, through prosecuting the screen and processing samples, and then working with the to generate a data package you will communicate back to the project team. This role therefore offers the unique opportunity to gain experience across the breadth of pooled CRISPR screening while it is being applied to clinical programs.
Come and join our AZ team where you will play a pivotal role in this exciting period of development.
What you’ll do
Lab-based scientist responsible for the delivery of pooled CRISPR screening for Target Discovery.
Working collaboratively and creatively to design, develop and implement experimental plans, including: Generation of Cas9 expressing cell lines, production of pooled lentivirus libraries, optimisation of screening conditions, performing pooled CRISPR screen, preparation of samples for NGS
To implement experimental plans over agreed timelines such that the objectives of the project are met.
To maintain an awareness of current developments in the literature
To contribute to the continuous improvement process by finding opportunities in the workplace where improvements can be made.
Lead aspects of scientific field within the Functional Genomics Centre
To achieve personal scientific visibility through project contributions and internal presentations at department or functional meetings.
To ensure compliance with local safety, health and environment policies
Required Experience, Skills, and Qualifications
BSc in Cell Biology or relevant field.
Experience with pooled CRISPR screening, including drug screens.
Strong interpersonal skills, with a personality that thrives when working in a team environment and can build relationships quickly
Experience in mammalian cell culture, preferably with practical experience of CRISPR and molecular biology techniques (e.g., NGS library prep, gene cloning)
Track record of impactful contributions to scientific research
Ability to drive innovative research through internalisation of new techniques and technologies
Desired requirements
Experience in an industrial/pharmaceutical laboratory applying relevant molecular and cell biology techniques.
Practical experience of functional genomics in target discovery
Making a difference every day by delivering life-changing medicines to millions of people globally, our purpose is ambitious and so is our approach. Becoming a more agile and creative company means building a culture that inspires innovation and collaboration. If this sounds like the place for you - don't hesitate to apply and join us to become part of a Great Place to Work!
We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.
Why AstraZeneca
At AstraZeneca we’re dedicated to being a Great Place to Work. Where you are empowered to push the boundaries of science and unleash your entrepreneurial spirit. There’s no better place to make a difference to medicine, patients, and society. An inclusive culture that champions diversity and collaboration, and always committed to lifelong learning, growth, and development. We’re on an exciting journey to pioneer the future of healthcare.
So, what’s next:
Are you already envisioning yourself joining our team? Good, because we can’t wait to hear from you.
Competitive salary and benefits package on offer.
The successful candidate will have access to a flexible employee benefits fund, including holiday purchase and flexible time off, pension contributions, Share Save Plans, A performance recognition scheme and a competitive, generous remuneration package.
