Thesis work, 60 credits - Investigating Airborne Particulate Matter and Lung Health

Are you a passionate master's student in Bioscience looking for meaningful and impactful research? Join us at our vibrant R&D site in Gothenburg for an exciting thesis opportunity within the Respiratory & Immunology Bioscience In Vivo Department. 

About AstraZeneca: 

AstraZeneca is a global, science-led, patient-centered biopharmaceutical company focusing on discovering, developing, and commercializing 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 Bioscience In Vivo Department:  

Our Bioscience In Vivo department comprises dedicated teams across five sites in Sweden, the UK, and the US. We are committed to setting up and utilizing in vivo models to evaluate new therapies, supporting various projects in our portfolio. We also focus on exploratory research to enhance our understanding of chronic respiratory and immunological diseases and explore new treatment targets for patients with high unmet medical needs. 

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 and deliver real value for our patients and our business. 

Thesis work description:  

Airborne particulate matter (PM) is a complex mixture of substances released into the atmosphere from diverse sources, including vehicle emissions, industrial activities, construction, wildfires, dust, and pollen. The effects of these particles on lung health significantly depend on their size. In particular, PM2.5 particles, which have a diameter of 2.5 micrometers or less, can penetrate deep into the lungs and are linked to adverse health outcomes, exacerbating respiratory diseases such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). 

Research has shown that PM2.5 can elevate levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS), leading to oxidative stress, which is associated with cell damage and inflammation—common features of COPD. As understanding the effects of particulate matter on lung health becomes increasingly critical, we are seeking a master's thesis student for a 10-month project to develop a physiologically relevant in vitro system. 

Key Objectives: 

- Create a pre-clinical model to investigate the direct effects of PM2.5 exposure on lung cells 

• Isolate cells from mouse lung tissue and differentiate primary lung epithelial cells using a 3D air-liquid interface culture. 
• Assess how these cell types respond to PM2.5 exposure both individually and in interactions with other cell types. 

Research Techniques: 

You will employ various molecular biology techniques, including: 

• RT-qPCR 
• ELISA 
• Immunohistochemistry (IHC) 

Additionally, you will conduct functional assays to measure: 

• Ciliary beating 
• Transepithelial electric resistance (TEER) 

Imaging techniques will be utilized to evaluate oxidative stress and other cellular responses. The project may also investigate how potential treatments influence the response to PM2.5, providing insights into innovative therapeutic strategies. 

Essential Requirements: 

• Ongoing master’s studies in a relevant discipline 
• Skills in any of the methods described above is a plus 
• Practical experience in culture of cells using good sterile technique is desirable  
• Scientific curiosity as well as good communication, and documentation skills are critical 

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 4th May 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.