Senior Scientist, Cell Therapy Discovery

At AstraZeneca, we put patients first and strive to meet their unmet needs worldwide. Working here means being entrepreneurial, thinking big and working together to make the impossible a reality. If you are swift to action, confident to lead, willing to collaborate, and curious about what science can do, then youre our kind of person. AstraZeneca is a global, innovation-driven biopharmaceutical business that focuses on the discovery, development and commercialization of prescription medicines for some of the world's most serious diseases. But we are more than one of the world's leading pharmaceutical companies. We are seeking a highly motivated and independent Senior Scientist with demonstrated experience and expertise in Cellular Therapy, Immunology, and/or Immuno-Oncology to join our rapidly growing Cell Therapy Team. In this role you will make use of your experience in T-cell biology to contribute to the advancement of innovative Cell Therapy products by designing and conducting laboratory experiments, developing methodology, and generating and interpreting scientific data in a highly collaborative environment. The role will be based in Gaithersburg, MD. Accountabilities Conducts hands-on drug discovery research experiments independently Assesses and reports data with a clear understanding of its implications within the overall context of drug discovery, independently formulate conclusions, and determine future experiments Provides technical instruction to the team and allocates administrative work where possible Works collaboratively in a matrix environment Shares relevant external published papers with peers Prepares and delivers presentations within the Cell Therapy Unit and across other functions Ensures own work, and work of peers, is compliant with relevant internal AstraZeneca standards and external regulations Education and Experience PhD in immunology or relevant disciplines Minimum of 3 years of experience in Cellular Therapy, Immunology, and/or Immuno-Oncology Essential Skills Well-developed understanding and expertise in cellular and molecular biology of immune cells Expertise in genetic engineering platforms (CRISPR/Cas9), transfection/transduction, expansion, and cell culture of primary T cells and tumor cell lines Strong proficiency in multi-parameter flow cytometry (Immunostaining, acquisition, and analysis) Hands-on expertise in T-cell functional characterization assays such as in vitro cytotoxicity, proliferation, and cytokine measurement Molecular engineering and construct/plasmid design Expertise in generation and analysis of omics datasets (single cell and bulk RNA-seq, spatial transcriptomics, proteomics) Experience with IO biologics (T-cell engagers, bispecific antibodies) Ability and motivation to drive projects to completion in a team environment Desirable Skills In vivo experience including animal handling, mouse tumor models, standard routes of dosing and engraftment, tissue harvest and processing Computational biology experience Experience with small molecules and/or mi/shRNA therapeutics Expertise in fibroblast and myeloid cell biology and relevant in vitro/in vivo models Experience in drug development in an industry setting #CellTherapy The annual base pay for this position ranges from $118K to $178K. Our positions offer eligibility for various incentivesan opportunity to receive short-term incentive bonuses, equity-based awards for salaried roles and commissions for sales roles. Benefits offered include qualified retirement programs, paid time off (i.e., vacation, holiday, and leaves), as well as health, dental, and vision coverage in accordance with the terms of the applicable plans. About our Gaithersburg Oncology Hub Our Gaithersburg, Maryland facility creates life-changing medicines for people around the world. This campus employs more than 3,500 authorities in our field and is only a short drive from Washington, DC. This modern and vibrant scientific campus is the home of R&D and Oncology in the US. Here, we play host to some of the most ground breaking technology and lab spaces, all designed to inspire collaboration and cross-functional science. We believe employees benefit from being challenged and inspired at work. We are dedicated to creating a culture of inclusion and collaboration. The Gaithersburg site offers a variety of amenities to help boost productivity and help keep our employees happy and healthy. This includes a fitness center, employee healthcare clinic, electric vehicle charging stations, dry cleaning, full-service cafeteria and on-site day care. This is where youll find activity-based workspaces to suit a variety of working styles while increasing collaboration between teams. Why AstraZeneca? At AstraZeneca when we see an opportunity for change, we seize it and make it happen, because any opportunity no matter how small, can be the start of something big. Delivering life-changing medicines is about being daring - finding those moments and recognizing their potential. Join us on our journey of building a new kind of organization to reset expectations of what a bio-pharmaceutical company can be. This means were opening new ways to work, pioneering innovative methods and bringing unexpected teams together. Interested? Come and join our journey. Date Posted 28-Jul-2026 Closing Date 05-Aug-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.