Thesis work, 30 credits - Enhancing Palatability in Pediatric Drug Formulations

Are you interested in improving the treatment experience for pediatric patients? Join us to advance the science of flavor in pharmaceutical formulations! 

About AstraZeneca: 

AstraZeneca is a global, science-led, patient-centred biopharmaceutical company focusing on discovering, developing, and commercialising 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:  

This master’s thesis addresses a significant challenge in drug development for pediatric populations: the palatability of medicines. Poor or unacceptable tastes of Active Pharmaceutical Ingredients (APIs) can lead to non-compliance and ineffective treatment outcomes. The proposed research aims to bridge the taste profiles of APIs with ideal flavors through an in-depth analysis of existing and new product databases. The student will evaluate various flavor options, contributing to the establishment of a foundational taste platform for new therapeutic compounds and the development of surrogate formulations. As part of the research, the student may also get involved in lab-based activities, providing practical insights into the formulation and testing processes. 

Key Objectives: 

• Evaluate Taste Masking and Flavor Options - Participate in the evaluation of different flavor options to determine their compatibility with various APIs, focusing on enhancing taste acceptability. 
• Develop AstraZeneca Taste Selection Library - Create a practical flavor selection library that aligns the tastes of new molecules with acceptable pediatric profiles, addressing key performance metrics for palatability. Integrate
• Multidisciplinary Knowledge - Integrate principles from formulation science, material science, and regulatory considerations to ensure the library and formulations meet industry standards and regulatory requirements. 
• Contribute to Age-Appropriate Formulation Development - Advance the development of age-appropriate formulations that ensure both efficacy and compliance, ultimately improving the overall treatment experience for pediatric patients. 

Structure: 

• Duration: Fall term 2025 (adapted after the course) 
• Scope: 30 hp/credits 

Essential Requirements: 

• Ongoing master’s studies within relevant field 

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 5th May 2025. 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.