Biobank Scientist

Introduction to role:
Are you ready to make a difference in the world of clinical trials and diagnostics? As a Biobank Scientist, you'll be at the forefront of handling ethically sensitive materials that are crucial for the implementation of new treatments. Your role will involve maintaining the inventory of Human Biological Samples (HBS) in line with global standards, Good Clinical Practice (GCP), and Standard Operating Procedures (SOP). You'll ensure samples are received, logged, stored, tracked, dispatched, returned, and disposed of appropriately. Specialised IT systems and databases will be your key tools for maintaining a compliant sample library. Daily communication with customers and stakeholders will be essential as you support the Regional Biobank Lead in delivering capabilities such as sectioning, staining, and scanning HBS. Collaboration with internal stakeholders to adhere to global standards and regulations is vital. Based in the UK, you'll also participate in an on-call schedule to provide emergency coverage, ensuring the ongoing integrity of HBS.

Accountabilities:
- Receive and register incoming HBS.
- Support the daily run of all aspects of histology capability.
- Perform sectioning of HBS.
- Contribute to laboratory maintenance of histology and microtomy areas, relevant SOPs, equipment maintenance, COSHH guidelines, and risk assessments.
- Perform all work following global standards, SOPs, Good Clinical Practice, and legal requirements – Human Tissue Authority (HTA).
- Track all ongoing projects using specialised informatics systems and databases, ensuring a common understanding of status at all times.
- Communicate with science partners (customers) to ensure compliance with global HBS standards and legal requirements.
- Address day-to-day issues and collaborate with Biobank groups worldwide, as well as internal and external stakeholders, to drive continuous improvement.
- Support the implementation and continued maintenance of archiving all study-based materials, including raw data, images, FFPE blocks, and slides. Ensure that all electronic records are continually maintained and available for audit.
- Knowledge of the transportation of HBS internally and contact with sample dispatch and external couriers.
- Ensure the upkeep of laboratory equipment and cleaning records.
- Assist in the input and tracking of HBS onto the local LIMS.

Essential Skills/Experience:
- Experience in Biobanking or working with human biological samples
- Fluent in English as the AstraZeneca working language
- Degree in a scientific discipline (BSc, MSc)
- Excellent communication skills
- Excellent attention to detail
- Understanding of, and experience with, working with various IT solutions, such as LIMS systems and databases, including knowledge of Excel for data transformation and analyses
- Experience in carrying out activities promptly and to the correct standards
- Identifying, implementing, and sharing continuous improvement processes

Desirable Skills/Experience:
- Competent in Histology techniques such as Microtomy, different staining methodologies, and evaluation of the various challenges in the process
- Interest in logistics and developing processes through customer interactions and technology awareness
- Experience with RMS

At AstraZeneca, we are driven by a bold vision to eliminate cancer as a cause of death. Our team is dedicated to pioneering new frontiers in oncology research, fusing cutting-edge science with the latest technology to achieve breakthroughs. Empowered at every level, we make fearless decisions backed by scientific evidence. Our collaborative research community unites academia and industry to expedite research in some of the hardest-to-treat cancers. Join us to build a rewarding career committed to improving the lives of millions with cancer.

Ready to take action? Apply now to join our team!

Date Posted

14-jul.-2025

Closing Date

14-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.

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.