At a Glance
- Tasks: Conduct groundbreaking research in oncology and develop innovative therapies for cancer treatment.
- Company: Join AstraZeneca, a leader in life-changing medicines and cutting-edge science.
- Benefits: Collaborative culture, flexible working, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Dynamic team environment with a focus on innovation and scientific excellence.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on cancer treatment and improve patients' lives with your research.
- Qualifications: PhD in immunology or related field, with strong lab skills and a passion for cancer research.
The predicted salary is between 59400 - 72600 £ per year.
At AstraZeneca, we turn ideas into life changing medicines. Working here means being entrepreneurial, thinking big and working together to make the impossible a reality. We’re passionate about the potential of science to address the unmet needs of patients around the world. We commit to those areas where we believe we can really change the course of medicine and bring big new ideas to life. Are you ready to work on one of the most exciting Oncology pipelines in industry? AstraZeneca’s vision in Oncology is to push the boundaries of science to change the practice of medicine, transform the lives of patients living with cancer, and to ultimately eliminate cancer as a cause of death.
We are seeking a highly motivated Senior Scientist with deep scientific and technical expertise spanning both adaptive and innate immune cell biology with a track record of scientific excellence to join Immune Cell Engagers Discovery team in Cambridge, UK for a 12-month period. As a Senior Scientist, you will be a key member of a team focused on supporting immune-oncology projects through the drug discovery process. You will bring your theoretical and practical expertise in immunology to establish assay systems and deliver datasets that will have direct impact on immune-oncology research projects.
Main Duties and Responsibilities
- Working in this laboratory-based position within the Immune Cell Engagers Discovery group, you will develop, design, conduct and analyse in-vitro and/or ex-vivo experiments to assess the function of our candidate drugs and help us to dissect the mechanism of action of novel therapeutics targeting the immune system for cancer therapy.
- You will also review emerging literature and internal data to help in identifying new potential targets and contribute to target validation activities.
- A strong foundation in immunology / immuno-oncology, and an in-depth technical expertise for the analysis of immune function and phenotype is essential for this role.
- As a highly organised and self-motivated individual with a strong lab/practical background, you will stay up to date with relevant technical and intellectual scientific expertise in tumour immunology and have a genuine passion for this field of research!
Essential Requirements
- A PhD, or equivalent experience, in immunology/Immuno-oncology/ cancer biology.
- Extensive background in immunology and/or immuno-oncology.
- Experience of a range of in-vitro and ex-vivo technical skills for the analysis of human immune cell functions via multiparameter flow cytometry, ELISA/multiplex assays, ELISPOT, primary immune cell isolation and co-cultures, cell killing assays (like TDCC, ADCC, CDC, ADCP), TILs isolation and phenotyping.
- Molecular biology skills including gene expression analysis and stable cell line generation.
- Working experience with immune cell assays and/or characterization is highly desirable.
- Strong interpersonal, influencing, negotiating and collaboration skills together with evidence of having used these skills to support problem solving and in delivering the projects in a collaborative environment.
- Depth of understanding and strong enthusiasm for immunology and immuno-oncology.
- Proven track record of scientific accomplishments, as evident from publications/patents.
- Data processing, statistical analysis, and interpretation.
- Experience in preparing written scientific reports (e.g., manuscripts) and oral presentations (e.g., slides, posters).
- Ability to record protocols and experiments in a timely manner and maintain an excellent electronic notebook (eLNB).
Desirable Requirements
- We encourage applications from candidates who have experience in the evaluation of immune cell functions and in developing and deploying complex immunological assays to understand the MOA of novel therapeutics.
- Expertise in fields of T-cell engagers, T cell exhaustion, tumour myeloid and/or NK biology.
- Experience in visualizing/quantifying high content multi-parameter flow cytometry data /transcriptomic datasets.
- Candidates who can demonstrate proficiency in leveraging AI technologies, including machine learning, data analysis, and algorithm development to enhance research outcomes, alongside strong problem solving skills, to enable integration of these tools into scientific workflows are strongly preferred.
- Prior experience with spectral flow cytometry.
- Working experience with 3D cell culture.
- Experience in working with patient-derived tumours/TILs.
- Knowledge of the drug discovery process.
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, scientific rigor meets real-world impact. You will collaborate with inquisitive colleagues, academic partners and biotech innovators to tackle complex disease biology, supported by leading technologies in data science and AI. We combine ambition with kindness, encouraging bold ideas while learning fast from both successes and setbacks. By contributing your experiments and insights, you help convert biology into therapies at speed—advancing a pipeline designed to reach more patients, across more indications, with purpose and care.
Call to Action: Take this chance to amplify your science and see your work shape the next wave of medicines—join us to turn high-quality experiments into life-changing progress for 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.
Senior Scientist (Fixed Term Contract) Oncology Research in Cambridge employer: AstraZeneca
AstraZeneca is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment in Cambridge where innovation meets collaboration. Employees benefit from a culture that values entrepreneurial thinking and scientific excellence, alongside opportunities for professional growth through mentorship and cross-functional projects. With a commitment to diversity and inclusion, AstraZeneca fosters a supportive atmosphere that empowers individuals to make meaningful contributions to life-changing medicines.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Scientist (Fixed Term Contract) Oncology Research in Cambridge
✨Join Biotechnology Meetups
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We think you need these skills to ace Senior Scientist (Fixed Term Contract) Oncology Research in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Relevant Lab Skills:In the biotech world, your lab skills are paramount. Make sure your CV highlights specific techniques and equipment you’ve used, such as PCR, gel electrophoresis, or cell culture. This will give us a clear picture of what you can bring to AstraZeneca as a temporary teammate.
Highlight Your Research Experience:If you’ve worked on any research projects — whether during your studies or in previous positions — make sure to detail these in your application. Include the objective, your role, and what you achieved. This will help us see your potential and fit for the temporary position at AstraZeneca.
Keep It Concise and Relevant:Especially for a temporary role, we want to see a clear and focused application. Tailor your CV and cover letter to emphasise the qualifications and experiences that are most relevant to the biotech field and the specific role at AstraZeneca. This shows us you’re genuinely interested and capable.
Be Clear About Your Availability:Since it’s a temporary role, let us know right away when you’re available to start and how long you can commit. Include this in your cover letter — this kind of transparency saves us all time and helps us find the right fit quickly at AstraZeneca.
How to prepare for a job interview at AstraZeneca
✨Brush Up on Your Biotech Basics
Understanding the fundamental concepts in biotechnology is crucial. Be ready to discuss core topics like genetics, molecular biology, or bioinformatics, especially if you're asked technical questions. We suggest revisiting your coursework or recent projects to refresh your memory.
✨Demonstrate Your Adaptability
Since this is a temporary role, they’re likely looking for someone who can jump in and get up to speed quickly. Share experiences where you’ve adapted to new environments, tools, or teams in a short space of time. It shows you're ready to tackle the challenge head-on!
✨Emphasise Your Lab Experience
If you’ve got hands-on experience in lab settings, now’s the time to showcase it. Talk about specific techniques you’ve mastered, like PCR or chromatography, and any relevant safety protocols you’ve followed. These details help paint you as an effective team member from day one.
✨Be Prepared to Explain Your Passion
Hiring managers want to see your motivation, especially for a temporary position in a fast-paced field like biotechnology. Be ready to discuss what excites you about the industry, your career goals, and how this role at AstraZeneca aligns with them. It’s all about showing that you’re not just looking for a job, but a stepping stone in your biotech journey.
