Thesis work: Evaluation of new therapeutic targets for IPF

Job description
Do you want to learn about early drug discovery and be part of evaluating a novel target with life changing potential?

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: August 2023
Student location: On Site, Gothenburg Sweden



Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a progressive lung disease characterized by irreversible loss of lung function due to the formation of lung fibrosis. During the progression of IPF, lung parenchyma and architecture is destroyed, and fibrotic scar tissue is produced. This results in loss of lung compliance and compromised gas exchange which usually leads to respiratory failure and death within 3–5 years of diagnosis. There is a huge unmet need for new medicines in order to increase the life expectancy, alleviate symptoms, and improve the well-being in IPF patients.


AstraZeneca is a major international healthcare business and offer a unique workplace culture that inspires innovation and collaboration. We have a great opportunity for a thesis project in one of our Bioscience department at our vibrant R&D site in Gothenburg.

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.


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: 2023-04-16, selection and interviews will be ongoing. The position may be filled before the last day of application, therefore, apply as soon as possible.


For us, it is important that all competence and skills in the labor market are utilized. We welcome all applicants and strive for diversity.




Responsibilities
In this placement, you will be part of a cross-functional team within Research and Early Development, Respiratory and Immunology (R&I), building scientific knowledge around disease-causing molecular mechanisms and identification of novel targets for treatment. Specifically, you will be investigating the role of a novel target in IPF using different 2D and 3D in vitro models.
 
Objectives and goals:
Contribute scientifically to evaluating a novel target to prevent lung fibrosis and stop disease progression in IPF by using a range of different 2D and 3D in vitro models with primary lung cells.
Acquire extensive training in fundamental molecular and cell biology techniques, including qPCR, cell imaging, Western blot and other cellular/protein assays as well as an ex vivo human lung explant model. 
Get insight in preclinical project work and drug discovery. 


Qualifications
Essential Requirements 
Good networking skills and interpersonal skills.
Interest and curiosity in molecular biology and the experimental work behind drug discovery.
Ability to work independently.
Written and oral communication skills in English.

 
Desirable Requirements 
Experience in cell culture.
Experience in molecular cell biology techniques eg. qPCR and Western blot.
Skilled in problem solving.


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.