Thesis work, 30 credits - Exploring Motivational Effects of Food in Mice

Are you passionate about behavioral science and the impact of nutrition? Join us in extending our behavioural test battery for Transgenic mice! 

About AstraZeneca:

AstraZeneca is a global, science-led, patient-centred biopharmaceutical company focusing on discovering, developing, and commercialising prescription medicines for some of the world’s most serious diseases. But we’re more than a global leading pharmaceutical company. At AstraZeneca, we're dedicated to being a Great Place to Work and empowering employees to push the boundaries of science and fuel their entrepreneurial spirit.  

About the Opportunity: 

As a Thesis Worker at AstraZeneca, you’ll find an environment that’s full of unique opportunities and exciting challenges. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to pursue your areas of interest whilst equally developing a broad skillset and knowledge base to get the best out of your experience. You’ll be working on meaningful projects to make an impact on our target validation process in

Discovery Science. 

Thesis work description:  

As a thesis worker, you will have the unique opportunity to set up and validate a behavioural test known as Conditioned Place Preference in mice. This research will focus on measuring the motivational effects of various rewarding food items. 

Key Objectives:

• Establish a behavioural Testing Protocol - Develop and validate a Conditioned Place Preference test to ensure reliable measurements of motivational effects in mice. 
• Compare Motivational Responses - Investigate and compare the motivational effects of different rewarding food items (peanut butter, sucrose pellets, chocolate chips, high fat diet) on the behaviour of mice. 
• Analyse Behavioural Data - Collect and analyse data from behavioural tests to assess the impact of each food type on motivation and preference. 
• Interpret Findings - Draw conclusions from the comparative analysis to expand understanding of how different nutritional compositions affect motivation in mouse models. 

Essential Requirements: 

• Ongoing master’s studies in relevant discipline 
• Approved Laboratory Animal Science course 
• Experience of working with mice 
• Previous experience of working with mouse behavior models is an advantage. 

So, what’s next?  

Apply today and take the chance to be part of making a difference, making connections, and gaining the tools and experience to open doors and fulfil your potential. We can´t wait to hear from you!  

We welcome your application as soon as possible, but ahead of the scheduled closing date 27th of April 2025. In the event that we identify suitable candidates ahead of the scheduled closing date, we reserve the right to withdraw the vacancy earlier than published.  

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.