Thesis work: Stem Cell Science and Genome Engineering

Job description
Stem cell science and genome engineering

Thesis type: 60 credits
Project start: January 2023
Student location: On Site, Gothenburg Sweden

We are looking for Master students to our Applied Stem Cell Sciences team in AstraZeneca,Gothenburg! Would you be interested in this exciting opportunity to work side by side with experts in stem cell science, genome engineering and assay development and learn how to develop stem cell derived platforms to model disease or validate new potential drug targets? Do not hesitate to reach out to learn more!

The Applied Stem Cell Sciences Team in Discovery Sciences, AstraZeneca Gothenburg operates at the heart of drug discovery, providing primary- and stem cell models for target validation and modality testing. Working closely with our therapeutic functions, we develop, adapt and integrate appropriate cellular models, genome engineering strategies and assays, to deliver custom fit data packages that answer key project questions and progress drugs to patients.

Responsibilities
In our team, you will learn state of the art methodologies for stem cell maintenance and apply protocols for stem cell differentiation to selected cell types (cardiac, kidney, lung or neurons). You will apply CRISPR editing and learn how to assess editing efficiency and cell health. Downstream work would encompass applying a cellular differentiation protocol to validate the functional consequence of a specific genetic modification. In short, you will aquire key skillsets in the field of stem cell engineering, which can take you to your next position in academia or industry.

Qualifications
Essential Requirements 
Hands on experience in cell culture and sterile techniques
Hands on experience with molecular biology techniques such as DNA and RNA isolation from cells, qPCR and western blots
Theoretical knowledge of the concept of induced pluripotent stem cells and stem cell differentiation
Theoretical knowledge of modern technologies for in vitro genome engineering

Desirable Requirements 
Hands on experience with stem cell culture and differentiation


About the company
 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.