Senior Scientist, Automation Scientist/Programmer

Senior Scientist, Automation Scientist/Programmer

Introduction to role:

Are you driven by a passion for science and eager to make a difference in the world of medicine? At AstraZeneca, we transform scientific ideas into life-changing medicines, putting patients first and addressing their unmet needs globally. Join us in our mission to innovate and collaborate, pushing the boundaries of what's possible in healthcare. If you're ready to lead, collaborate, and explore the potential of science, we want you on our team

Accountabilities:

As a Senior Scientist, Automation Scientist/Programmer, you will program automation equipment like liquid handlers and automated work cells. You'll design and implement digital solutions to streamline repetitive tasks, enhancing efficiency within our business and technology environments. By analyzing current procedures, you'll identify opportunities for improvement and develop robust systems using scripts, frameworks, or commercial tools. Collaborate with cross-functional teams to integrate these solutions, ensuring their reliability and scalability. Your daily activities will include writing and maintaining code, configuring digital platforms, conducting system tests, troubleshooting issues, and documenting technical processes. You'll participate in technical reviews and contribute to the continuous improvement of standards and best practices in workflow optimization.

Essential Skills/Experience:

• 5+ years of relevant experience Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science, Engineering, Information Technology or 3 years of experience with a Master’s degree, especially if paired with direct experience in biologics or laboratory automation

• Liquid Handling and automated work cells

• Strong experience in process analysis and workflow enhancement using scripting or programming languages (e.g., Python, Java, JavaScript, Bash, or PowerShell)

• Solid knowledge of tools and frameworks for task automation in relevant domains (such as CI/CD systems, RPA platforms, or test automation suites)

• Familiarity with version control systems and agile software development methodologies

• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills

• Ability to work effectively in a collaborative, cross-functional environment and convey complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders

Desirable Skills/Experience:

• Experience working in a biological research and development laboratory

• Prior experience designing and deploying solutions that digitize manual processes in an enterprise setting

• Working knowledge of cloud environments (e.g., AWS, Azure, GCP) and related automation capabilities

• Exposure to quality assurance, DevOps, and monitoring practices

Site Location

Our Waltham, MA facility builds life-changing medicines for people around the world. The modern, vibrant scientific campus employs more than 800 experts in our field, and it is only a short drive from Boston, MA. With a shuttle bus to and from Alewife station, the location providesyou the ability to work in the heart of one of the world’s most vibrant research centers. It is filled with innovative technology. Our work areas were built to facilitate teamwork, interaction and cross functional science. We believe employees benefit from being challenged and inspired at work.

Our Waltham site offers a variety of amenities to help book productivity and help keep our employees happy and engaged. This includes a fitness center, employee healthcare clinic, electric vehicle charging stations, full-service cafeteria, and copy center. This is where you’ll find newly designed, activity-based workspaces to suit a variety of working styles while increasing collaboration between teams and the greater research community.

As AstraZeneca continues to put patients at the forefront of our mission, we are excited for our move to Kendall Square/Cambridge in 2026. 

AstraZeneca is where science meets data to create bold solutions that challenge the status quo. We delve deep into data insights using cutting-edge methodologies to drive scientific breakthroughs. Our dynamic environment fosters learning and innovation, encouraging bold decisions that can change patients' lives. With a commitment to continuous improvement, we embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. Here, you'll be part of a team that combines specialist knowledge with curiosity to find better ways of doing things.

Ready to make an impact? Apply now and join us in shaping the future of medicine!

Diversity and Inclusion

We are committed to building an inclusive workplace that reflects the diverse communities we serve. AstraZeneca encourages applications from all qualified individuals and provides reasonable accommodations during the recruitment process as needed.