Scientist, Virology Research

Scientist, Virology Research

Introduction to role

Here at AstraZeneca, you’ll have the opportunity to make a difference in people’s lives every day. As one of the world’s premier biotechnology companies, our mission is centered on delivering life-changing products that advance world health and help fight and cure disease. As a Scientist in the Virology and Vaccines Discovery group in the Early Vaccines and Immune Therapies (Early V&I) unit in Gaithersburg, MD, you’ll play a pivotal role in channeling our scientific capabilities to make a positive impact on changing patients’ lives.

The Virology and Vaccines Discovery group at AstraZeneca is discovering and developing biologics and vaccines targeting key viral pathogens, including respiratory viruses. We are consistently pushing the boundaries of science to deliver life-changing medicines to patients. Our deep expertise in vaccines and immunology enables our ability to advance novel therapeutic approaches and technologies to prevent and treat infectious disease. We have an industry-leading pipeline and offer a unique and strong collaborative network as part of the AstraZeneca family. Currently, we are seeking a highly motivated and broadly skilled bench scientist with scientific and technical expertise in virology and in vivo mouse models and a track record of scientific achievement to join us. The Scientist will be a key member of a growing team focused on discovering and developing next-generation vaccines and biologics. The position requires a strong interest in laboratory bench work and the ability to drive projects forward.

AstraZeneca has a dynamic environment that fosters collaboration and innovation. We attract top minds, and we nurture and build top talent.

Accountabilities

• Conduct in vitro cell culture-based experiments and in vivo rodent studies to support the development of biologics and vaccines targeting viral pathogens of interest including respiratory viruses.

• Conduct antiviral assays, selecting for resistant viral variants, and applying molecular virology techniques to advance programs.

• Propagate and maintain virus stocks (knowledge of virus reverse genetics systems a plus).

• Work collaboratively with colleagues across the organization (e.g., protein engineering, bioinformatics, pathology, and translational medicine) to drive projects towards successful completion.

• Make detailed observations, analyze data, and interpret results independently.

• Preparation of precise technical summaries, protocols, quantitative analyses, and maintenance of appropriate documentation.

• Contribute to publishing discoveries in high-quality, peer-reviewed journals.

Essential Skills/Experience

• B.S. or M.S. in Virology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, Immunology, Cell Biology, or related scientific discipline with 2+ years of experience

• Broad experience required in virology, molecular biology, and/or immunology.

• Extensive hands-on experience with cell-based assays and/or in vivo techniques (rodent models).

• Advanced knowledge of mammalian cell culture and virology techniques including recombinant virus generation, virus stock amplification, virus titration, plaque assays, microneutralization assays, etc.

• Experience working with RNA viruses, molecular cloning techniques, and reverse genetics systems is a plus.

• Familiarity with assay automation is a plus.

• Experience working with rodent models and in vivo techniques including injections, inoculations, blood and tissue sampling, necropsies, etc. is a plus.

• Strong interpersonal and collaborative skills.

• Ability to work in a fast-paced environment while planning and meeting timelines.

• Must be meticulous and detail-oriented.

• Ability to multitask and prioritize numerous different projects.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills.

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.

AstraZeneca offers an inspiring learning environment where every setback is seen as a chance to improve. Our supportive yet challenging approach pushes us towards groundbreaking solutions. We are dedicated experts who combine specialist knowledge with curiosity, always searching for better ways of doing things. Working here means contributing to something that truly matters—using our skillset to make an important difference to society and patients across the globe.

Ready to make a difference? Apply now on our website!

The annual base pay (or hourly rate of compensation) for this position ranges from $87,200 to $130,800. Hourly and salaried non-exempt employees will also be paid overtime pay when working qualifying overtime hours. Base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. In addition, our positions offer a short-term incentive bonus opportunity; eligibility to participate in our equity-based long-term incentive program (salaried roles), to receive a retirement contribution (hourly roles), and commission payment eligibility (sales roles). Benefits offered included a qualified retirement program [401(k) plan]; paid vacation and holidays; paid leaves; and, health benefits including medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans. Additional details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment. If hired, employee will be in an “at-will position” and the Company reserves the right to modify base pay (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.

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.