Senior scientist – functional genomics

Senior scientist – functional genomics

Location: Cambridge

Salary: Competitive

About AstraZeneca

AstraZeneca is a global, science-led, and patient-focused biopharmaceutical company that focuses on the discovery and development of medicines for some of the world’s most serious diseases. But we’re more than one of the world’s leading pharmaceutical companies. At AstraZeneca, we are pioneering new frontiers by identifying and treating patients earlier, working towards the aim of eliminating cancer as a cause of death. With a presence in over 100 countries, we have strength in emerging markets, and our medicines are used by millions of patients and clinicians worldwide. Working here means being results-oriented and working together to make the impossible a reality.

Introduction to the role:

As a Senior Research Scientist, at the Functional Genomics Centre (FGC) you’ll play a pivotal role using cutting edge technology to discover new cancer targets that will ultimately transform patients’ lives.  Our centre is a collaboration between AstraZeneca and Cancer Research UK, who have joined forces to forge a world-leading centre of expertise in pooled CRISPR screening, cancer models, CRISPR vector design and computational approaches to big data. Based at AstraZeneca’s new Discovery Centre in Cambridge (UK), our mission is to accelerate the development of new treatments for people with cancer by identifying novel targets and resistance mechanisms to create new cancer medicines. Join our team and be part of an amazing group of scientists applying innovative technology to drive forward target discovery for cancer therapies in an exciting environment that is collaborative and vibrant.

As a Senior Research Scientist you will be part of a team using pooled CRISPR technologies to discover new cancer targets. Our culture is to learn and to innovate, doing science aligned to our oncology portfolio as well as innovating by creating novel solutions to meaningful problems that delivers value. This role offers the opportunity to do combine doing experimental lab work with the data analysis and interpretation of pooled CRISPR screens, all to inform on new targets. Building your experience across diverse types of pooled CRISPR technology and analysis approaches as we focus on pushing the science and technology forward in areas like single cell CRISPR, combinatorial screening and precise genome editing at scale (e.g. pooled PRIME editing).

Key accountabilities

• Using pooled CRISPR technologies to discover new targets that impact oncology drug discovery, doing experimental lab work and data analysis/interpretation (bioinformatics).

• Working collaboratively and creatively to design, conduct and analyse experimental science aligned to the FGC portfolio and strategy in order to drive Target Discovery.

• Using your scientific network and knowledge of the evolving technology to identify new opportunities for innovation and collaboration - internally and externally.

• Strive to continuously improve how we work as a team and the science we do through a learning and growth mindset.

• Be an active part of our team and community by sharing your science generously at all levels - with your team members, through to internal and external scientific forum.

• Work in way that complies with our local safety, health and environment policies.

Required experience and skills:

• PhD in relevant scientific field with experience either as a postdoctoral researcher or in an industry setting. Alternatively, a BSc with significant relevant industry experience.

• Experience Mammalian cell culture, preferably with practical experience of using pooled CRISPR for target discovery.

• Experience analysing NGS-based datasets using open source packages, going from fastq to figures.

• Track record of impactful contributions to scientific research – publication, conferences, etc.

• Ability to drive innovative research through internalisation of new techniques and technologies

Desirable experience:

• Experience in early drug discovery and/or oncology research.

• Deep expertise in either cancer biology OR analysis software like R/Python

• Exposure to Unix based systems

About you, you will have….

• a growth mindset driven by learning and an excitement for cutting edge science.

• the personal development goal to develop in parallel your experimental and informatic skills.

• strong communication and interpersonal skills that thrives when working in a team environment.

• ability to work collaboratively to delivery success as part of a team.

• a passion for changing patients’ lives through the discovery of new oncology medicines.

We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.

Why AstraZeneca

At AstraZeneca we’re dedicated to being a Great Place to Work. Where you are empowered to push the boundaries of science and unleash your entrepreneurial spirit. There’s no better place to make a difference to medicine, patients, and society. An inclusive culture that champions diversity and collaboration, and always committed to lifelong learning, growth, and development. We’re on an exciting journey to pioneer the future of healthcare.

So, what’s next:

Are you already envisioning yourself joining our team? Good, because we can’t wait to hear from you.

We welcome your application as soon as possible, but ahead of the scheduled closing date of 9th March 2025.

Competitive salary and benefits package on offer.

The successful candidate will have access to a flexible employee benefits fund, including holiday purchase and flexible time off, pension contributions, Share Save Plans, A performance recognition scheme and a competitive, generous remuneration package.

Where can I find out more?

This is what we’re made of: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pmFx_jr2eFo&t=2s

Our sustainability ambition: https://www.astrazeneca.com/sustainability.html

Recent Publications: https://www.astrazeneca.com/publication.htm