Associate Scientist III, In Vitro/In Vivo Pharmacology (IVIVP)

Location: New Haven, CT (onsite)

This is what you will do:

Alexion Pharmaceuticals has an exciting opportunity for an Associate Scientist III position within the In Vitro and In Vivo Pharmacology team located at our vibrant New Haven Center of Excellence. This role primarily involves the independent design, development and execution of a range of routine and special tissue analyses within our preclinical histology lab (non-regulated environment). The successful candidate will be an intellectually curious and data-driven self-starter with strong technical and problem-solving skills and demonstrated histology expertise. This position will play an integral role in selecting and characterizing innovative and effective new molecules for treating rare diseases.

You will be responsible for:

• Independently plan and execute, both routine and complex tissue staining. This involves evaluating biodistribution, target engagement, and efficacy in gene therapy candidates across different species.

• Optimize, troubleshoot, and perform tissue-based assays (IHC/ISH) with minimal supervision using the Leica Bond Rx to characterize disease progression in preclinical models, identify clinically meaningful endpoints, and inform the strategy for indication selection.

• Scan and QCs slides in brightfield and fluorescent mode.

• Coordinate pathological reviews and manage external histological activities conducted at qualified CROs.

• Present data and provide recommendations in internal department meetings, project cross functional team sessions, and Research-wide meetings to discuss findings and subsequent actions.

• Explore new technologies, suggest process improvements, and acquire new skills and knowledge to foster innovation.

• Oversee the operation of histology and imaging equipment and coordinate maintenance to ensure optimal performance.

You will need to have:

• B.S. +4-7 years or M.S. +2-4 years of experience in histology or biological sciences in an academic, medical or pharmaceutical/biotechnology environment

• Experience in histology, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, in situ hybridization, scanning and image data management experience is crucial for this position. This includes proficiency in staining techniques, troubleshooting staining and processing issues. Basic knowledge of image analysis and pathology is essential for this position.

• Strong skills in independently designing, executing, and critically analyzing experiments to facilitate data-driven decisions.

• Capability to prioritize and manage deliverables effectively, based on project impact.

• Experience in developing, executing, and troubleshooting immunoassays for both in vitro and ex vivo samples.

• Strong verbal and written communication skills and exemplary organizational practices

• A commitment to collaboration and embracing a diverse and inclusive team culture is essential

• The duties of this role are generally conducted in a lab environment.  As is typical of a lab-based role, employees must be able, with or without an accommodation to: lift/carry 15/30 pounds unassisted/assisted; work comfortably in a controlled environment with and around biological, infectious, and hazardous materials; gown/degown PPE; use a computer; engage in communications via phone, video, and electronic messaging; engage in problem solving and non-linear thought, analysis, and dialogue; collaborate with others; maintain general availability during standard business hours; position may require occasional on-site weekend work. In addition, employees in this role must be able, with or without an accommodation to: pass a medical evaluation; wear a respirator while maintaining a tight-fitting seal to the face.

We would prefer for you to have:

• An established hands-on in vivo skill set, including compound administration, anesthesia use, blood, and tissue collection

• Experience with dissection,  tissue harvesting and processing

• Experience with AAV and/or LNP screening studies

• Experience with data management and analysis systems i.e. HALO

• Preclinical expertise with in vivo imaging modalities or functional/behavioral endpoints

• Experience with electronic notebook documentation practices

• Experience with CRO management

• Experience with graphic softwareand statistical analysis

• Enthusiasm for proposing new target ideas and novel technology platforms

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 authorization and employment eligibility verification requirements.