Senior Scientist, Viral Vector Process Development, Upstream

AstraZeneca is looking for a highly motivated and experienced Senior Scientist, Viral Vector Process Development (Upstream). The candidate will play a critical role in building and leading a high-performing team that accelerates AstraZenecas emerging Cell Therapy modalities portfolio. You will design, execute, and optimize upstream Lentiviral Vector (LVV) processes with a primary focus onsuspension bioreactor platformsatclinical and commercial scales. You will contribute hands-on to experimental design, process characterization, and scale-up/tech transfer activities from research through IND enabling, partnering closely with Research, Analytical Development, CMC, Regulatory, Manufacturing, Quality, and external CDMOs. This position is based in Gaithersburg, MD. Key Responsibilities Upstream Process Development: Plan and perform experiments to develop and optimize LVV upstream processes forsuspension cell culture(transient or stable producer cell systems), targeting improvements in titer, quality, robustness, and cost. Bioreactor Operations & Scale Translation: Execute unit operations across seed, production, and harvest interfaces; support scale-up strategies from bench to pilot and clinical scales; develop and usescale-down modelsfor characterization and comparability. Experimental Design & Data Analysis: Design DOE studies, identify CPPs/CMAs, analyze data, and propose control strategies; document results in protocols and reports; maintain fit forpurpose knowledge records. Process Characterization & Control: Contribute to definition of design space, in-process controls, and operating ranges; trend process performance and drive troubleshooting, root cause analysis, and corrective actions. Tech Transfer & GMP Interface: Prepare technical transfer packages and support transfers to internal GMP sites and CDMOs; align process documentation withcGMPprinciples for late-stage readiness. Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with Analytical Development on assay readiness and in process testing; partner with Manufacturing, Supply, and Quality to ensure operational feasibility and compliance. Operational Excellence: Apply Lean practices and digital tools for scheduling, data integrity, and reproducibility; track KPIs (titer, infectivity, impurity profiles, cycle time, right first time) and recommend improvements. Qualifications Education: PhD in Biology, Virology, Biotechnology, or related field with 25 years of relevant industry experience; or MS with 58 years; or BS with 810 years. Title will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. Experience: Handson experience developingsuspension-based LVV upstream processes; familiarity with clinical/commercial scale considerations, process characterization, and technology transfer. Technical Skills: Proficiency in suspension cell culture, transfection/infection strategies, media/feed optimization, singleuserocking-platform and stirred-tank bioreactors, and upstreamharvest interfaces; working knowledge ofstatistical DOEand data analytics tools. GMP Readiness: Experience supportingcGMPinterfaces (documentation, change control, sampling plans) and contributing to CMC sections or technical responses is a plus. Communication & Teamwork: Strong written and verbal communication skills; ability to work effectively in crossfunctional, matrixed teams; demonstrated problemsolving and troubleshooting capability. Tools & Automation: Experience with singleuse systems, process automation/PAT, and digital lab systems (ELN/LIMS) preferred. Preferred Qualifications Demonstrated success scalingsuspension LVV processesto pilot/clinical scales and sustaining performance via monitoring and continuous improvement. Experience linking upstream parameters to analytical outcomes (titer, infectivity/potency, residuals/impurities) to guide process decisions. Contributions to regulatory filings (data tables, process descriptions) and participation in tech transfer to CDMOs or internal GMP sites. Experience implementing Lean/continuous improvement and robust documentation/knowledge management in PD labs. The annual base pay for this position ranges from $108,473.60 - $162,710.40. Base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. In addition, our positions offer a short-term incentive bonus opportunity; eligibility to participate in our equity-based long-term incentive program. Benefits offered included a qualified retirement program [401(k) plan]; paid vacation and holidays; paid leaves; and, health benefits including medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans. Additional details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment. If hired, employee will be in an at-will position and the Company reserves the right to modify base pay (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors. At AstraZeneca, we are at the forefront of innovation with constant new products and launches. Our dynamic environment encourages collaboration and problem-solving as we strive to deliver life-changing medicines. We embrace challenges in rapidly changing markets by continuously seeking better ways to deliver medicines to patients. Our team is diverse and connected globally, working together to push the boundaries of supply chain excellence. With a focus on sustainability and a commitment to doing things the right way, we offer opportunities for growth and development in a supportive environment. Join us in making a differenceapply today! Compensation Pay Range: 108,473.60 - 162,710.40 USD Annual The annual base pay (or hourly rate of compensation) for this position is outlined above. Hourly and salaried non-exempt employees will also be paid overtime pay when working qualifying overtime hours. Base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. In addition, our positions offer a short-term incentive bonus opportunity; eligibility to participate in our equity-based long-term incentive program (salaried roles), to receive a retirement contribution (hourly roles), and commission payment eligibility (sales roles). Benefits offered included a qualified retirement program [401(k) plan]; paid vacation and holidays; paid leaves; and, health benefits including medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans. Additional details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment. If hired, employee will be in an at-will position and the Company reserves the right to modify base salary (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors. Date Posted 09-Jan-2026 Closing Date 29-Jan-2026 Our mission is to build an inclusive environment where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and employees. In furtherance of that mission, we welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their protected characteristics. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please complete the corresponding section in the application form. AstraZeneca is a global, science-led, patient-focused biopharmaceutical company. We focus on discovering, developing and commercialising prescription medicines for some of the worlds most serious diseases. But we are more than one of the worlds leading pharmaceutical companies. At AstraZeneca, were dedicated to being a Great Place to Work. Where you are empowered to push the boundaries of science, challenge convention and unleash your entrepreneurial spirit. To embrace differences and take bold actions to drive the change needed to meet global healthcare and sustainability challenges. There is no better place to make a difference in medicine, patients, and society. An inclusive culture where you will connect different thinking to generate new and valuable opportunities. Where you will find a commitment to lifelong learning, growth and development for all. Our Inclusion & Diversity (I&D) mission is to create an inclusive and equitable environment where people belong, using the power of our diversity to push the boundaries of science to deliver life-changing medicines to patients. Inclusion and diversity are fundamental to the success of our company, because innovation requires breakthrough ideas that only come from a diverse workforce empowered to challenge conventional thinking. Were curious about science and the advancement of knowledge. We find creative ways to approach new challenges. Were driven to make the right choices and be accountable for our actions. As an organisation centred around what makes us human, we put a big focus on people. Across our business, we want colleagues to wake up excited about their day at the office, in the field, or in the lab. Along with our purpose to bring life-changing medicines to people across the globe, we have a promise to you: to help you realise the full breadth of your potential. Here, youll do work that has the potential to change your life and improve countless others. And, together with your team, youll shape a culture that unites and inspires us every day. This is your life at AstraZeneca.