Thesis work: SHED cells as a novel source of human tissue

Job description
Exploring urinary shed cells as a potential source of human kidney tissue in clinical studies

Thesis project: 30 credits
Student location: AstraZeneca, Gothenburg, Sweden
Start: January 2023

Do you have an interest in human biological samples and how these can be explored in human target validation and for understanding the effect of a drug in clinical studies? Are you looking for an inspiring thesis project starting in the spring 2023? Then, this project in the early CVRM Translational Science & Experimental Medicine department at AstraZeneca may be of interest to you!

The Early CVRM (Cardiovascular, Renal and Metabolism) Translational Science and Experimental Medicine department has the remit to bridge early and late drug development by providing target validation in humans, building of biomarkers, and precision medicine strategies for clinical studies and novel target identification. A key in successful drug development is to translate results from pre-clinical work based on cell models and in-vivo studies to the clinical setting, by testing mechanistic biological hypotheses in human tissue/samples. Access to patient tissue such as biopsies, is very limited, and less invasive sources of patient material would be a highly desirable tool in drug development.
 
In this project you will explore if viable cells shed into urine could be used as a novel source of human kidney tissue. 

Responsibilities
The primary focus of the project is to explore the feasibility of using urinary shed cells for biomarker identification and experimental medicine studies. The role will mainly be lab based, focusing on isolation of urinary shed cells and testing the cells in functional assays. There will be many opportunities for exploring different techniques as the project progress, e.g. automated western blot, imaging and qPCR. 

Qualifications
Essential Requirements
A strong interest in science and the use of human biological samples in drug development. 
Experience in cell culture and standard lab techniques, such as sterility work and pipetting.
Written and oral communication skills in English.
A quick and independent learning style, curiosity and creativity will help bring success in this project.


Application
Dealine 2022-11-11

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.