Senior Research Scientist - Biophysics of Oligonucleotides

Are you a scientist with expertise in, and passion for, the application of biophysical methods to study oligonucleotides? Would you like to apply your expertise to impact and expand the use of therapeutic oligonucleotides in drug projects in a company that follows the science and turns ideas into life changing medicines? Then AstraZeneca have a 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. To help us with this we are looking for a Senior Research Scientist with passion, expertise and experience to join the Structure, Biophysics & Fragments-based Lead Generation department within Discovery Sciences (DS) at our site in Gothenburg, Sweden.

Discovery Sciences is a multi-faced department that validates and integrates targets from genomics research and drives early drug discovery across AstraZeneca's global Research and Development portfolio - a department where you truly can make a difference in your daily work.

What you will do:
The role as Senior Research Scientist is a laboratory-based position supporting the in vitro characterization of Oligonucleotide interactions with proteins and RNA. You will use a set of complementary biophysical methods in order to inform oligonucleotide design and selection. Driving the exploitation of novel technologies to enable an improved biophysical characterization of molecular interactions with focus on RNA and oligonucleotides will be an essential part of the role. Furthermore, you will be responsible for driving continuous learning and development of the biophysical capabilities in this field and thus play an important role in shaping the future strategy for the expanded use of oligonucleotides.

In the role you will also:

* Design and execute biophysical studies to generate binding data of modified oligonucleotides engaging with RNA and a suite of protein binding partners. This includes also biophysical receptor binding studies that inform about the efficiency of receptor-mediated tissue targeting.
* Apply surface-based biophysical methods on isolated RNA target systems to develop a mechanistic understanding of oligonucleotide-mediated RNA degradation. Through these studies you will unravel and subsequently utilize the mechanisms of RNA-binding protein functions that impact oligonucleotide efficacy.
* Develop, implement and continuously improve methods focusing on the biophysical 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 to support project initiation, lead generation activities, medicinal chemistry design and candidate drug selection. Drive innovation, scientific excellence and external visibility of the Biophysics capability.

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.

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 protein-ligand interactions. In-depth knowledge of the characterization of RNA and oligonucleotides by biophysical methods including a strong practical knowledge in technologies like thermal unfolding/stability, surface plasmon resonance (BIAcore), single molecule microscopy and/or electrically switchable nanolevers (Switchsense).
* Proven expertise in performing assay development, validation and execution, 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
* Proven reputation gained through an excellent track record of publications and/or conference presentations

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!

Does this sound like your next challenge and place to work? We look forward to your application no later than 12th June, 2020.

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.