Thesis work: Evaluating the targeting properties of a peptide

Job description
Thesis work: Evaluating the targeting properties of a peptide identified from in vitro phage display biopanning

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

Thesis type: 30 credits
Project start: January 2023
Student location: On Site, Gothenburg Sweden

Targeted conjugating of therapeutic modality with a peptide ligand is an attractive strategy for targeted drug delivery, particularly when the peptide is selected to help overcome tissue and cellular barriers, thus improving therapeutic efficacy. Cell targeting, endosomal escape and nuclear targeting may be improved through the development of novel peptides identified by phage display combined with subcellular fractionation. Potent novel targeting peptides incorporated into nucleic acid therapeutic molecules or delivery modalities have the potential to improve therapy efficacy. We have identified one such peptide which can target bacteriophage to the nucleus of kidney cells. The next step, which is the basis of the studentship, is to introduce a fluorescently labelled version of the peptide into kidney cells in culture to confirm it’s nuclear localizing properties and subsequently to conjugate the peptide to an antisense oligonucleotide for functional analysis of the peptide. We will in addition attempt to identify the binding partner of the peptide in biochemical assays.

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.



Responsibilities
The basis of the studentship is to introduce a fluorescently labelled version of the peptide into kidney cells in culture to confirm it’s nuclear localizing properties and subsequently to conjugate the peptide to an antisense oligonucleotide for functional analysis of the peptide. We will in addition attempt to identify the binding partner of the peptide in biochemical assays.

Qualifications
Ongoing education  in the field of cell biology, molecular biology or biotechnology
Experience of molecular and cell biology
Hands-on experience with cell culturing


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.