Thesis work: Curating data to predict recombinant protein express

Job description
Curating data for machine learning approaches to predict recombinant protein expression

Thesis project: 30 credits
Student location: AstraZeneca, Gothenburg, Sweden
Start: January 2024


Are you a master student with a hunger for science and eager to be involved in a project where we push the boundaries of science? Are you a student with a diverse background in biotechnology and bioinformatics/multivariate data analysis/machine learning. Do you like to combine wetlab work in protein production expression screening with data curation and analysis to generate models to predict protein expression. Are you looking for an inspiring master thesis project starting in the spring 2024? Then this project at the Discovery Biology Department at AstraZeneca could be interesting to You!


A fundamental step in drug discovery and biomedical research is the generation of large quantities of high-quality proteins, which are used for multiple applications including assay development, bioassay screening, and structural biology. However, producing and delivering such proteins during the early phases of drug discovery is often a rate-limiting step. The current processes to design protein constructs are labour-intensive, requiring multiple rounds of optimization via trial and error, making the overall process time-consuming and costly.


The project aims to support ongoing efforts within the department and in collaboration with the Data Science and Quantitative Biology department to develop methodologies to predict protein expression.


At AstraZeneca, all of our employees make a difference to patients’ lives every day. We operate in more than 100 countries around the world and are one of Sweden’s most important export companies.


With more than 2,400 employees from 50 countries, the vibrant Gothenburg site helps to support the entire life-cycle of AstraZeneca medicines, from drug discovery and clinical trials, to global commercialisation and product maintenance. Gothenburg is one of AstraZeneca’s three strategic, global R&D centres, alongside Cambridge and Gaithersburg, and plays a central role in our mission to deliver life-changing medicines to patients.


Application


Randstad Life Sciences is collaborating with AstraZeneca in this recruitment process. Please send your application in English and we only accept applications through Randstad’s website.


Deadline for application: 2023-10-15, selection and interviews will be ongoing. The position may be filled before the last day of application, therefore, apply as soon as possible.


All chosen candidates need to pass a background check and an alcohol and drug test before starting the project.



Responsibilities
Curating external recombinant protein expression datasets. Calibrating external datasets together with internal datasets. Work with a data science postdoc to further develop the model. Use the current and improved models to predict protein construct design and perform proof-of-concept wetlab work. The wetlab work will involve E. coli protein expression, small scale purification and analysis.



Qualifications


Understanding of recombinant protein expression.
Understanding of biological sequence modelling with a focus on protein sequence analysis and protein construct design
Proficiency in programming (Python and/or R) 
 Highly motivated, having a scientific mindset and can easily comprehend and apply ideas from the literature
Ability to watch & learn, and then perform experiments on your own, with some guidance
 Excellent attention to detail and good organizational skills
 Written and oral communication skills in English.


About the company
If you’re inspired by the possibilities of science to make a difference and ready to discover what you can do – join us! 


At AstraZeneca we are guided in our work by a strong set of values, and we’re resetting expectations of what a bio-pharmaceutical company can be. By truly following the science, we pioneer new methods, new thinking and bring unexpected teams together. From scientists to sales, lab techs to legal, we’re on a mission to turn ideas into life-changing medicines that transform lives. We need great people who share our passion for science and have the drive and determination to meet the unmet needs of patients around the world. If you’re swift to action, confident to lead, willing to collaborate, and curious about what science can do, then you’re our kind of person.


 AstraZeneca is an equal opportunity employer. AstraZeneca will consider all qualified applicants for employment without discrimination on grounds of disability, sex or sexual orientation, pregnancy or maternity leave status, race or national or ethnic origin, age, religion or belief, gender identity or re-assignment, marital or civil partnership status, protected veteran status (if applicable) or any other characteristic protected by law. AstraZeneca only employs individuals with the right to work in the country/ies where the role is advertised.