Sr. Associate Scientist I, Vector Production, Viral Vector Product Development

This is what you will do:

This position will play a key role in Alexion’s Viral Vector Product Development, Vector Production team, interacting with internal teams within the Genomic Medicine and Product Development Clinical Supply groups. The senior associate scientist will be responsible for supporting both upstream and downstream AAV manufacturing.

You will be responsible for:

• Supporting AAV upstream manufacturing including but not limited to cell culture, transfection, and harvest for mid-large scale bioreactors
• Supporting downstream AAV purification via chromatography-based methods
• Monitoring AAV process yields & efficiency
• Assessing / characterizing process related impurities
• Maintaining digital laboratory notebooks with proper documentation
• Assisting with development and maintenance of SOPs
• Presenting data and findings to diverse groups both internally and externally facing
• Providing innovative and ambitious solutions to challenges
• Staying up to date in current developments in the AAV manufacturing field

You will need to have:

Qualifications / Training & Education

• Bachelor’s degree in biology, or a relevant field with 2-3yrs experience or Master’s degree with 1-2yrs experience
• Basic understanding of Good Laboratory Practices for bioprocessing, manufacturing & analytics

Knowledge & Experience

• Strong track record of building successful relationships with supervisors, peers, suppliers, customers, partners and stakeholders
• Excellent communication skills and ability to work well with multiple individuals.
• Ability to work on several projects simultaneously and to switch focus as needed
• Ability to keep accurate and organized records

Technical Competencies

• Knowledge of chromatography-based purification
• General molecular/microbiology skills
• Expertise in aseptic technique
• Track record of prioritizing multiple, complex, high priority tasks and ensuring timely delivery to meet project needs
• A strong attention to detail
• Working knowledge of Microsoft Office products, especially with Microsoft Excel

• The duties of this role are generally conducted in a lab environment.  As is typical of a lab-based role, employees must be able, with or without an accommodation to: lift 15 pounds unassisted; work comfortably in a controlled environment with and around biological, infectious, and hazardous materials; gown/degown PPE; use a computer; engage in communications via phone, video, and electronic messaging; engage in problem solving and non-linear thought, analysis, and dialogue; collaborate with others; maintain general availability during standard business hours.

We would prefer for you to have:

• Experience with AAV process development and troubleshooting (upstream & downstream)
• Proficiency with Unicorn software and writing methods
• Experience with analytical assays related to AAV
• Experience with packing, cleaning and testing chromatography columns

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.