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- Tasks: Join our team to predict and analyse protein structures using cutting-edge computational tools.
- Company: AstraZeneca is a global leader in biopharmaceuticals, dedicated to improving public health.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, remote work options, and a collaborative, dynamic environment.
- Why this job: Be part of groundbreaking projects that contribute to drug discovery and development.
- Qualifications: PhD in Computer Sciences or relevant experience in biotech/industry required.
- Other info: Applications welcome until 13th July 2025; join us in making a difference!
The predicted salary is between 43200 - 72000 £ per year.
Overview
Title: Computational Structural Biologist
Location: Cambridge
Salary: Competitive
Introduction to the role:
The Computational Structural Biology (CSB) team is growing our broad-ranging expertise encompasses structural bioinformatics, protein structure prediction, molecular dynamics simulations, free-energy calculations, protein docking, and in silico prediction of physico-chemical properties of biomolecules using advanced computational methods. The team sits as part of the wider Protein Sciences dept. which poses leading capabilities in Protein Structure Prediction, Crystallography, Cryo-Electron Microscopy, Protein Expression and Biophysics.
This role will see you collaborating with structural biologists, protein scientists, biophysicists, chemists, biologists and computational scientists across all of AZs therapy areas. You will work proactively across multiple projects within an interdisciplinary, collaborative, dynamic environment to help develop high-quality lead proteins, ultimately leading to new clinical candidate drugs.
This is an outstanding opportunity to develop and work with ground-breaking, technology and apply it to bio-therapeutic discovery and development projects in a dynamic and interdisciplinary environment.
Accountabilities
- Predict, analyse and interpret protein structure using computational modelling tools like Boltz-2, Bindcraft, AlphaFold, RFdiffusion, RFpeptides, molecular dynamics simulations and ML/AI.
- Apply and develop Protein/peptide design methods.
- Apply and develop Free-energy calculations for molecular interactions.
- Apply molecular dynamics simulations methods to understand protein dynamics and motions.
- Generate scripts and workflows to enable automated analyses.
- Apply and develop deep learning and molecular dynamics-based approaches to biologics drug discovery.
- Be part of and contribute to multidisciplinary drug discovery project teams
Essential criteria
- PhD in Computer Sciences applied to Biochemical systems and /or Postdoc/ biotech/industry experience.
- Demonstrated expertise in protein or peptide design.
- Demonstrated proficiency in utilizing free energy calculations for biochemical analysis and protein design using AI technologies.
- Expertise preparing and running complex molecular dynamics simulations of biochemical systems.
- Strong experience in programming with Python for molecular structures.
- Good track record of publications, strong research skills, and a history of innovation and achievements.
- Strong experience using molecular modeling packages like Biovia, MOE, Schrodinger, etc.
- Outstanding teamwork and excellent communication skills.
Desirable criteria
- Advanced methods protein and peptide design will be an advantage.
- Advanced methods for free-energy calculations will be an advantage.
- Experience applying methods for protein design with ML/AI will be an advantage.
- Relevant areas of experience might include development and implementation of new deep learning methodologies and generative models.
- Experience in molecular dynamics simulations or protein structure prediction with fully open-source programs is highly desired (e.g. Boltz-2, OpenFold, ProteniX, Rosetta, OpenFF, etc).
- Relevant post-doctoral experience will be advantageous, as would be experience of working in a biotech or pharma company.
- Experience using high performance computing clusters and cloud computing (e.g. AWS, Azure, etc).
- Experience using multiple molecular dynamics simulation packages (Charmm. Gromacs. Etc).
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 18th September 2025.
Where can I find out more?
Follow AstraZeneca on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/company/1603/
Follow AstraZeneca on Facebook https://www.facebook.com/astrazenecacareers/
Follow AstraZeneca on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/astrazeneca_careers/?hl=en
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Senior Computational Scientist employer: AstraZeneca
Contact Detail:
AstraZeneca Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Senior Computational Scientist
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest computational modelling tools mentioned in the job description, such as AlphaFold and Boltz-2. Being able to discuss your hands-on experience or understanding of these tools during interviews can set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the field by attending relevant conferences or webinars. Engaging with experts in structural biology and computational science can provide insights into the latest trends and may even lead to referrals for the position.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your collaborative skills by highlighting any interdisciplinary projects you've worked on. The role requires teamwork across various scientific disciplines, so demonstrating your ability to work well with others will be crucial.
✨Tip Number 4
Stay updated on advancements in AI technologies related to protein design. Being knowledgeable about how machine learning is being integrated into drug discovery can give you an edge in discussions during the interview process.
We think you need these skills to ace Senior Computational Scientist
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in computational biology, protein design, and molecular dynamics simulations. Use specific examples that align with the job description to demonstrate your expertise.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a compelling cover letter that explains why you are interested in the role and how your skills and experiences make you a perfect fit. Mention your PhD and any postdoctoral experience, as well as your proficiency in programming with Python.
Highlight Collaborative Experience: Since the role involves working with multidisciplinary teams, emphasise your teamwork and communication skills. Provide examples of past collaborations with biologists, chemists, or other scientists to showcase your ability to work in an interdisciplinary environment.
Showcase Your Research Achievements: Include a section in your application that details your publications and any innovative projects you've worked on. This will help demonstrate your strong research skills and track record of achievements in the field.
How to prepare for a job interview at AstraZeneca
✨Showcase Your Technical Skills
Be prepared to discuss your expertise in computational modelling tools and molecular dynamics simulations. Highlight specific projects where you've successfully applied these skills, especially using tools like AlphaFold or Boltz-2.
✨Demonstrate Collaborative Experience
Since the role involves working with a diverse team, share examples of past collaborations with structural biologists, chemists, or other scientists. Emphasise your teamwork and communication skills, as these are crucial in an interdisciplinary environment.
✨Prepare for Problem-Solving Questions
Expect questions that assess your ability to tackle complex problems in protein design and molecular interactions. Be ready to explain your thought process and the methodologies you would use to approach these challenges.
✨Discuss Your Research and Publications
Having a strong track record of publications is essential. Be prepared to discuss your research findings, the impact of your work, and how it relates to the role. This will demonstrate your innovation and achievements in the field.