Principal Scientist – New Manufacturing Technology Industrialisation

Introduction to role

Join us as a Principal Scientist, a key leadership role in our Chemical Engineering & Continuous Processing function, implementing new technology initiatives. You will be responsible for leading the industrialisation of new manufacturing technologies for Chemical Development, to support the clinical and commercial manufacture of our small molecule and new modality Active Pharmaceutical Ingredient (API) portfolio. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of our Operations team, where technology is a key lever in delivering more medicines to patients quickly, affordably, and sustainably.

Your Business Area

In Chemical Development we believe that nothing is impossible, and we are determined to push the boundaries of science to deliver medicines to our patients. We combine people’s technical knowledge and understanding with their talent and drive to design, develop and optimise synthetic routes that deliver the APIs of our medicines in a sustainable, commercially viable way.

We believe in innovation and continuous improvement, working closely with colleagues in academia and across industry, to ensure that we apply the latest technologies and principles in the processes we develop. Our ambition is to establishan environmentthat facilitates theseamless integration of the right new technologieswith the right process understanding to deliversafe, robust and sustainable manufacturing processes for the future.To achieve our bold ambition, we have an open position forPrincipal scientist – New Manufacturing Technology Industrialisation, to facilitate the link between technology strategy and operational implementation.

Accountabilities

As a Principal Scientist, you will lead the Chemical Development input for the implementation of Manufacturing Technology in AstraZeneca API supply chains. You will define, prioritise and, if appropriate, lead key strategic Science and Technology Programmes through the New Manufacturing Technology Introduction process. This includes demonstrating that a technology is ready for industrialisation, its implementation at the first manufacturing facility, and further network roll-out, both internally and with external partners. You will collaborate with drug project teams to integrate new technology implementation into drug development workflows and support Operations manufacturing sites, Pilot Plant, and external CMOs to trial and embrace the right manufacturing technology to meet our future drug substance needs. You will act as a mentor and coach for less experienced engineers in the activities required for new technology introduction. Your leadership will foster effective communication and collaboration between different departments to achieve common objectives and lay the pathway for successful implementation.

Essential Skills/Experience

• Masters/PhD or equivalent experience in chemical engineering or similar subject area
• Significant experience of GMP chemical manufacturing environments
• Proven expertise in leading delivery of significant/complex capital project activities, including planning, resourcing, and detailed knowledge of the SHE requirements of capital project delivery within chemical manufacturing facilities
• Excellent knowledge of the science behind a broad range of API pharmaceutical unit operations and manufacturing platforms, linking through into equipment design
• A credible technical leader, with proven ability to influence at a senior level, ideally with experience of working with leadership teams and scientific communities
• Strong understanding of change management principles and demonstrated ability to drive change
• Experience of the implementation of digital tools and data analytics within the manufacturing environment
• Excellent interpersonal skills with a proven ability to engage and collaborate across boundaries
• Demonstrated ability to mentor and coach to build capability in others

Desirable Skills/Experience

• Familiarity with pharmaceutical process development and technical transfer activities
• Experience in the application of continuous unit operations and technology in a manufacturing environment
• Experience with unit operations and technologies relevant to new modality molecules, examples including solid phase synthesis, tangential flow filtration, preparative chromatography, and thin film evaporation
• Understanding of the pharmaceutical regulatory environment, ideally with experience of application to new technology
• A natural facilitator, with understanding of lean principles and experience of the application of lean tools
• Passionate about innovation, technology, and manufacturing science, with an appreciation for the wider landscape, including Industry 4.0/5.0

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.

At AstraZeneca, we are committed to getting more medicines to patients quickly, affordably, and sustainably. Our Operations team leverages cutting-edge technology to transform our ways of working, creating smart factories that enhance efficiency and make AstraZeneca an inspiring place to work. Embrace change with us as we trial new solutions with patients and business in mind. Our diverse workforce is united by curiosity, sharing learnings and scaling fast to deliver life-changing medicines. With strong leadership backing our digital journey, we make a significant impact on society, the planet, and our business.

Ready to make a difference? Apply now!

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 authorisation and employment eligibility verification requirements.