Thesis Work, 30 Credits - Development of Virus-Like Particles (VLPs) for Non-Hepatic Delivery of CRISPR Reagents

Are you interested in developing innovative delivery systems for next-generation genetic medicines? Join our research team at AstraZeneca for a thesis project focused on engineering virus-like particles (VLPs) to deliver CRISPR reagents to tissues beyond the liver. You will contribute to the development, characterization, and in vitro validation of VLP candidates, with the potential to extend the project into in vivo studies.

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 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:

CRISPR-based medicines offer the potential to address the underlying causes of serious diseases by enabling precise genetic modification. However, the development of effective delivery systems remains a key challenge, particularly for reaching tissues beyond the liver. Virus-like particles (VLPs) are promising delivery vehicles because they can be engineered to deliver biological cargo to specific targeting tissues.

This thesis project aims to develop VLPs as a delivery platform for CRISPR reagents to non-hepatic tissues. You will contribute to an ongoing research effort within the group and gain experience in VLP engineering, molecular and analytical characterization, and functional evaluation.

What you’ll do

The project will focus on the following primary objectives:

• Explore and evaluate novel capsid proteins that can redirect VLP delivery from the liver to tissues of interest.
• Establish and standardize reproducible protocols for VLP assembly, purification, and CRISPR cargo packaging.
• Develop quality control readouts covering particle concentration, size distribution, cargo loading, and functional integrity.
• Evaluate the delivery efficiency and editing activity of selected VLP candidates in relevant cell-based models.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data, document results rigorously, and communicate findings through scientific presentations and written reporting.

As a stretch objective, and depending on the progress of the project and your interests, you may also have the opportunity to evaluate lead candidates in appropriate mouse models. This could include assessing biodistribution and editing efficiency in non-hepatic tissues.

Your impact

Your work will contribute to the development of next-generation delivery technologies for CRISPR-based medicines. By identifying and characterizing VLPs with improved non-hepatic tropism, the project may help address an important challenge in the field and support the development of future genetic medicines for diseases affecting tissues beyond the liver.

Placement:  

This is an on-site position at AstraZeneca Gothenburg.

AstraZeneca does not support with accommodations for this role

Structure:

• Duration: Spring 2027
• Credits: 30

Essential Requirements:

• Enrolled in a master’s program in molecular biology, biotechnology, biomedicine, bioengineering, or a related field.
• Hands-on experience with standard molecular and cell biology techniques, such as mammalian cell culture, transfection, PCR, and Western blot.
• Prior exposure to viral vectors, VLPs, LNPs, or other delivery systems is a plus.
• Familiarity with CRISPR/Cas systems is preferred but not required.
• Ability to work independently and plan and execute experiments in a structured manner.
• Ability to document experiments rigorously and communicate scientific results clearly in English.

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 October, 23 2026. 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.

Date Posted

02-okt.-2026

Closing Date

23-okt.-2026

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.