Associate Principal Scientist, Biophysics Oligos & RNA

Are you a scientist with expertise in, and passion for, the application of biophysical methods to study oligonucleotides and RNA? Would you like to apply this expertise to impact and expand the use of therapeutic oligonucleotides in drug projects as well as exploit new avenues in RNA-targeted drug discovery at AstraZeneca? Then this might be the next challenge for you!

AstraZeneca is committed to the development of next generation innovative medicines and is focused on expanding the use of oligonucleotides and molecular conjugates thereof, in the treatment of diseases across therapy areas. The company also exploits new avenues in RNA-targeted drug discovery to provide additional disease treatment opportunities. To help us with this, we are currently looking for a scientist with passion, expertise and experience to join our Mechanistic and Structural Biology Department (MSB) as a lab-based Associate Principal Scientist within the Biophysics group at AstraZeneca in Gothenburg, Sweden.

The MSB department has leading capabilities in biophysics, crystallography, cryo-EM, enzymology and cellular pharmacology. The Biophysics team has specific expertise in molecular biophysics methods, including SPR, NMR, ITC, DSF, HDX-MS, nMS and single molecule approaches. We apply biophysics across a range of different therapeutic modalities to support drug discovery from target validation to drug candidate. Welcome to join our exciting journey!

What you will do:
This laboratory-based role is for a leading Biophysicist in the Oligonucleotide/RNA area that wants to utilize the latest biophysical technologies. You will design and execute in vitro screening studies of Oligonucleotide interactions with proteins and RNA using suitable biophysical methods including but not limited to SPR and NMR. You will furthermore plan and conduct biophysical small-molecule screening activities to enable targeted delivery of Oligonucleotides by identifying and characterizing novel targeting moieties. In addition, you will be responsible for driving continuous learning and development of the biophysical capabilities to further augment our internal RNA-targeted drug discovery efforts by putting ideas into action. In the role you will also:

* Apply biophysical methods on isolated RNA target systems to develop a mechanistic understanding of oligonucleotide-mediated RNA degradation.
* Develop, implement and continuously improve biophysical screening methods focusing on the characterization of RNA, DNA and modified oligonucleotides, which may also include the characterization of small molecule binding to RNA.
* Analysis, interpretation and presentation of data to cross functional teams.
* Represent the Biophysics function at project interfaces and drive innovation, scientific excellence and external visibility of the Biophysics capability.

Essential for the role:

* PhD in biochemistry or biophysics (or equivalent education) with a strong understanding of protein and nucleic acid chemistry as well as RNA biology. Demonstrated experience working both independently and collaboratively in a laboratory environment, preferably in the Pharmaceutical or Biotechnology industry.
* Familiarity in the general application of biophysical methods for the study of molecular interactions. In-depth knowledge of the characterization of RNA and oligonucleotides by biophysical methods including practical knowledge in technologies like thermal unfolding/stability, surface plasmon resonance (BIAcore) and/or nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)
* Proven expertise in performing assay development, validation and screening, including data analysis and the ability to communicate data interpretation clearly.
* Ability to manage multiple projects with clear understanding of project needs to ensure delivery of high-quality data with clear communication of timelines.

Finally, to be successful in this role we see that you have good social and communication skills, are collaborative and a strong team player. You should also be able to work independently and have a positive, goal oriented and problem-solving attitude.

Why AstraZeneca?
When we see an opportunity for change, we seize it and make it happen, because any opportunity can be the start of something big. Delivering life-changing medicines is about being entrepreneurial - finding those moments and recognizing their potential. Join us on our journey in finding new ways to work, pioneering cutting edge methods and bringing unexpected teams together!

If this sounds like your next challenge and place to work - apply today! We look forward to your application no later than 22nd May, 2022.

If you would like to know more about the position, the team or working at AstraZeneca, please reach out to hiring manager Stefan Geschwindner at stefan.geschwindner@astrazeneca.com.

Additional information:
Our Gothenburg site: https://www.astrazeneca.com/our-science/gothenburg.html
Life in Gothenburg: https://www.movetogothenburg.com/
Make a move to Global Gothenburg: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c-Iqbb4aw38
About BioPharmaceuticals R&D: https://www.astrazeneca.com/r-d.html