Scientist – Cancer Biomarker Development (ctDNA Team)

We are seeking a dedicated Scientist to join our Cancer Biomarker Development (CBD) ctDNA Team in Waltham, MA. This is an exciting opportunity to be part of an elite center for innovative cancer research and play a key role in generating genomics data to support early oncology clinical trials.

In this role, you will:

• Use innovative molecular biology techniques to enable decision-making in Translational Medicine (TM) and CBD
• Engage with TM and CBD colleagues to explore opportunities for novel biomarker analysis
• Contribute to understanding response and resistance mechanisms in cancer therapy
• Work with liquid biopsy technologies for response monitoring, minimal residual disease (MRD), and early cancer detection

The CBD ctDNA Team focuses on identifying, evaluating, and deploying liquid biopsy tools for oncology projects. You will be involved in analyzing disease-specific patient samples, generating contrived reference samples (Stetson JCO’24), and collaborating with external partners, service providers, and academic institutions.

Key Responsibilities

Clinical and Translational Science Contributions

• Support MATRIX studies to evaluate liquid biopsy assays for early oncology clinical trials
• Collaborate with ctDNA technology leads, Translational Medicine Leads (TMLs), and Precision Medicine teams
• Develop and implement biomarker plans aligned with clinical study needs
• Assist with assay development, troubleshooting, and optimization in partner laboratories
• Generate genomics data using techniques such as panel NGS, whole exome sequencing (WES), whole genome sequencing (WGS), digital PCR, and automation
• Work with internal and external partners to deliver high-quality diagnostic assay data

Technical and Laboratory Responsibilities

• Procure and track commercial cancer patient samples using human biospecimen (HBS) tracking
• Support the evaluation, selection, and partnership with third-party diagnostic labs
• Implement and validate new genomics technologies within internal labs
• Maintain compliance with CAP/CLIA regulations for assay validation
• Record, analyze, and interpret data using LIMS, bioinformatics tools, and production informatics systems
• Ensure high data quality, documentation accuracy, and adherence to regulatory guidelines

Collaboration and Project Management

• Assist in Statements of Work (SOW) development for exploratory biomarker analyses
• Manage external partnerships for biomarker sample analysis and diagnostics
• Track, lead, and report on progress using laboratory tracking tools
• Communicate findings effectively to internal teams, leadership, and cross-functional partners

People Management Responsibility

• Direct Reports: None
• Matrix Management: None
• Team Management: None

Why Join Us?

AstraZeneca is a global leader in oncology research, committed to redefining patient outcomes through innovative translational science. Join us in shaping the future of precision medicine and cancer biomarker development.

Why AstraZeneca?

At AstraZeneca, we embrace opportunities for change to drive meaningful advancements. Our mission is clear: to deliver life-changing medicines and redefine possibilities in biopharma. By combining diverse perspectives, pioneering science, and bold ideas, we are transforming patient outcomes worldwide.

Where You Can Learn More

·       Follow AstraZeneca on LinkedIn

·       Follow AstraZeneca on Facebook

·       Follow AstraZeneca on Instagram

Benefits
We offer a competitive Total Reward program, including:

·       Competitive base salary, annual bonus, and long-term incentives

·       Generous paid time off program

·       Comprehensive benefits package

Diversity and Inclusion at AstraZeneca
AstraZeneca embraces diversity and equality of opportunity. We are committed to building an inclusive team that represents a diverse group of backgrounds and perspectives, knowing that inclusion drives better outcomes.We welcome all qualified candidates and align with applicable laws regarding inclusivity and employment eligibility. Individuals with disabilities can request reasonable accommodations during the application or interview process, as well as for essential job functions.

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.