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- Tasks: Lead innovative projects in advanced cell models to enhance drug safety and development.
- Company: AstraZeneca is a global leader in life-changing medicines, pushing scientific boundaries.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working options, competitive salary, and a collaborative environment.
- Why this job: Join a team making a real impact on global health through cutting-edge science.
- Qualifications: PhD in relevant fields with strong research and innovation experience required.
- Other info: Work from various locations including Cambridge, Gothenburg, Boston, or Gaithersburg.
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
DIRECTOR ADVANCED CELL MODEL INNOVATION, SAFETY SCIENCES
Join to apply for the DIRECTOR ADVANCED CELL MODEL INNOVATION, SAFETY SCIENCES role at AstraZeneca
DIRECTOR ADVANCED CELL MODEL INNOVATION, SAFETY SCIENCES
19 hours ago Be among the first 25 applicants
Join to apply for the DIRECTOR ADVANCED CELL MODEL INNOVATION, SAFETY SCIENCES role at AstraZeneca
Title: Director- Advance Cell Model Innovation- Safety Sciences – permanent
Location: Cambridge UK, Gothenburg SE, Boston MA, Gaithersburg MD
Salary: Competitive
At AstraZeneca, we push the boundaries of science to deliver life-changing medicines. Our global Safety Sciences organisation delivers innovative non-clinical safety science and toxicology expertise to enable the discovery, development and registration of novel medicines across drug modalities and therapeutic areas.
As a science-driven business, we continuously strive to innovate to enhance our scientific capabilities and accelerate the speed at which we bring medicines forward.
Advanced Cell Models (ACM), such as organoids and Microphysiological Systems (MPS), are New Approach Methods (NAMs) being used for safety assessment and to study disease biology. We are playing a leading role in the field to apply ACM to drug discovery and development, in particular to predict and optimise therapeutic index for novel candidate drugs.
To enhance our ACM strategy, we are looking to recruit a Director – Advanced Cell Model Innovation, Safety Sciences .
The role can be based at any of our R&D sites in Cambridge (UK), Gothenburg (Sweden), Boston MA (US) or Gaithersburg MD (DC metro area, US), it is part of the Advanced Cell Models Team and reports to the Senior Director, Head of Advanced Cell Models, Safety Sciences.
Accountability
- Lead a forward-looking Advanced Cell Model (ACM) science and technology vision exploring new technologies, platforms and in-line biomarker detection systems, and overseeing their implementation to humanise prediction of safety and therapeutic index and enhance productivity.
- Develop and own the Advanced Cell Model strategic plan aligned with AZ 3Rs and work with internal stakeholders and external consortia and health authorities to qualify, validate and gain acceptance of NAMs in accordance with, for example, FDA and EMA Roadmaps.
- Responsible for scouting external science and providers, and provide expert input into decisions to explore, implement, and invest in new methodology/technology.
- Impact on R&D globally by leading cross-enterprise partnerships with innovation leaders to facilitate the sharing of ideas to optimise the application of ACM aligned to the 3Rs, providing expert technical direction and problem solving.
- Work with Clinical Pharmacology and Safety Sciences and R&D IT data science experts to ensure data are FAIR, supporting workflows for biological data capture, insights, systems modelling and application of AI/ML for the development of “digital twins”, and align internal data standards with external consortia (e.g. ISO), white papers and health authority requirements.
Requirements
- Strong academic background with PhD in a relevant field (Cell Biology, Engineering, Pharmacology, Toxicology or related discipline), with high quality publications.
- Excellent understanding of ACM and NAMs (including organoids, MPS, in silico modelling), 3Rs and regulatory requirements for drug development.
- A proven understanding of drug discovery and development, with a strong track record of independent research in industry, biotech, or academic setting.
- Track record of scientific innovation, leading development and application of cutting-edge, novel science.
- A collaborative, team-oriented approach, able to solve problems in a goal-focused fashion with capacity to coordinate tasks across multiple projects.
- Excellent influencing, communication and presentation skills, ability to work across scientific disciplines and bridge organizational boundaries.
- Level of the role (Director / Associate Director) will be based on experience, understanding of drug discovery and development, and track record of successful development and application of cutting-edge, novel ACM/NAMs science.
When we put unexpected teams in the same room, we fuel ambitious 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.
Join the team unlocking the power of what science can do. We are working towards treating, preventing, modifying and even curing some of the world\’s most complex diseases. Here we have the potential to grow our pipeline and positively impact the lives of billions of patients around the world. We are committed to making a difference by fusing data and technology with the latest scientific innovations to achieve the next wave of breakthroughs. Our combination of curiosity and courage drives us to explore new possibilities without fear of failure. We celebrate our successes and learn from our failures along the way. Our inclusive environment allows us to work seamlessly as one team, using diverse global knowledge to create the greatest impact on disease.
If your passion is science and you want to be part of a team that makes a bigger impact on patients\’ lives, then there\’s no better place to be. Apply now!
what is next?
Are you ready to make a difference? Apply today and join us in our mission to improve global public health!
We welcome your applications not later than 27th July 2025.
Where can I find out more?
Follow AstraZeneca on LinkedIn AstraZeneca on Facebook AstraZeneca on Instagram you ready to make a difference? Apply today and join us in our mission to improve global public health!
Date Posted
11-Jul-2025
Closing Date
27-Jul-2025
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.
Seniority level
-
Seniority level
Director
Employment type
-
Employment type
Full-time
Job function
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Job function
General Business, Management, and Business Development
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Industries
Pharmaceutical Manufacturing
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DIRECTOR ADVANCED CELL MODEL INNOVATION, SAFETY SCIENCES employer: AstraZeneca
Contact Detail:
AstraZeneca Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land DIRECTOR ADVANCED CELL MODEL INNOVATION, SAFETY SCIENCES
✨Tip Number 1
Network with professionals in the field of Advanced Cell Models and Safety Sciences. Attend relevant conferences, webinars, or workshops to meet potential colleagues and learn about the latest trends and technologies. This can help you gain insights into what AstraZeneca values in candidates.
✨Tip Number 2
Familiarise yourself with AstraZeneca's current projects and initiatives related to Advanced Cell Models. Understanding their strategic goals will allow you to tailor your discussions and demonstrate how your expertise aligns with their vision during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss your previous research and innovations in detail. Be ready to explain how your work has contributed to advancements in drug discovery and development, particularly in relation to ACM and NAMs, as this will showcase your fit for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Highlight your collaborative skills and experience in cross-disciplinary teams. AstraZeneca values a team-oriented approach, so be prepared to share examples of how you've successfully worked with diverse groups to achieve common goals.
We think you need these skills to ace DIRECTOR ADVANCED CELL MODEL INNOVATION, SAFETY SCIENCES
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in advanced cell models, safety sciences, and drug development. Use specific examples that demonstrate your expertise in ACM and NAMs, as well as your leadership skills.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for science and innovation. Clearly articulate how your background aligns with AstraZeneca's mission and the specific requirements of the Director role. Mention any relevant collaborations or projects you've led.
Highlight Your Publications: If you have high-quality publications, make sure to include them in your application. This will showcase your academic background and research capabilities, which are crucial for this role.
Showcase Your Collaborative Skills: AstraZeneca values teamwork and collaboration. In your application, provide examples of how you've successfully worked across disciplines and led teams to achieve common goals in your previous roles.
How to prepare for a job interview at AstraZeneca
✨Showcase Your Scientific Expertise
Make sure to highlight your academic background and any relevant publications during the interview. Discuss your understanding of Advanced Cell Models (ACM) and New Approach Methods (NAMs), as this will demonstrate your fit for the role.
✨Prepare for Technical Questions
Expect questions that delve into your experience with drug discovery and development. Be ready to discuss specific projects where you've applied innovative science, particularly in relation to ACM and NAMs.
✨Emphasise Collaboration Skills
AstraZeneca values a collaborative approach, so be prepared to share examples of how you've worked across teams or disciplines. Highlight instances where you’ve successfully coordinated tasks across multiple projects.
✨Understand Regulatory Requirements
Familiarise yourself with the regulatory landscape surrounding drug development, including FDA and EMA guidelines. Being able to discuss how you would align ACM strategies with these requirements will set you apart.
