NGS Lab Scientist Full-time NEW

Data Scientist

In AstraZeneca's Cell Therapy division, we follow the science to explore and innovate. We are working towards treating, preventing, modifying, and even curing some of the world's most complex diseases. We have the potential to grow our pipeline and positively impact the lives of patients around the world. We are committed to making a difference and have built our business around our passion for science. Now we are fusing data and technology with the latest scientific innovations to achieve the next wave of breakthroughs. This role is part of the Operations team tasked with supporting clinical and commercial production across multiple sites.

AstraZeneca is looking for a Data Scientist to join CPSS Cell Therapy group. You will lead bioinformatic research efforts with multi-omic data sets from clinical trials. This position is based in Santa Monica, CA and reports to an Associate Director.

You Will:

• Prepare tissues and primary cells for single-cell suspension
• Generate single-cell immunoprofiling libraries using 10x Genomics workflows, including gene expression and TCR libraries
• Utilize laboratory automation platforms to support and streamline library preparation workflows
• Perform next-generation sequencing using Illumina NovaSeq X Plus platforms
• Optimize and troubleshoot assays to improve performance, including dead-cell removal and T-cell enrichment strategies
• Design, execute, and support NGS-based assays, working both independently and in cross-functional teams
• Contribute to data management and tracking using electronic laboratory notebooks (ELN)
• Manage multiple priorities to meet project timelines while maintaining accurate experimental records and clear communication of results
• Present findings and progress updates in internal and cross-functional forums
• Support additional activities as needed to advance broader team and organizational objectives

You Have:

• Five (5) years with BS/BA, or two (2) years with MS/MA in immunology, cellular or molecular biology or in a relevant discipline with related lab or industry experience
• Background in genomics and molecular biology
• Hands-on experience with NGS library preparation
• Proficiency with single-cell NGS platforms (10X Genomics platform)
• Experience with using Illumina sequencers (NovaSeq X Plus)
• Experience with laboratory automation platforms for library preparation (10X Chromium Connect and/or Beckman Biomek i7)
• Experience with preparation of primary cells for single-cell suspension
• Well-versed in cell culture aseptic techniques
• Organizational and record-keeping abilities
• Team-oriented attitude with the capability to work independently and in collaboration
• Open to taking on temporary responsibilities beyond the initial job description

Essential Qualifications, Skills and Experience

• Bachelor's degree (BS/BA) with at least five years, or Master's degree (MS/MA) with at least two years of relevant laboratory or industry experience in immunology, cellular or molecular biology, or a related discipline.
• Demonstrated hands-on experience with next-generation sequencing (NGS) library preparation and single-cell NGS platforms (e.g., 10x Genomics).
• Proficiency in using Illumina sequencers (NovaSeq X Plus) and laboratory automation platforms (such as 10X Chromium Connect and/or Beckman Biomek i7).
• Strong organizational and record-keeping skills, including experience with electronic laboratory notebooks (ELN).
• Ability to manage multiple priorities, meet project timelines, and maintain accurate experimental records.
• Effective communicator, able to present findings and progress updates in internal and cross-functional forums.
• Team-oriented attitude with the capability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Flexibility to take on temporary responsibilities beyond the initial job description.

Technical & Scientific Expertise

• Preparation of tissues and primary cells for single-cell suspension.
• Generation of single-cell immunoprofiling libraries using 10x Genomics workflows, including gene expression and TCR libraries.
• Optimization and troubleshooting of assays to improve performance, including dead cell removal and T-cell enrichment strategies.
• Execution and support of NGS-based assays, both independently and as part of cross-functional teams.
• Experience with cell culture aseptic techniques and preparation of primary cells for single-cell analysis.
• Familiarity with laboratory automation platforms to streamline library preparation workflows.
• Data management and tracking using ELN systems.

Domain Experience

• Background in genomics and molecular biology, with practical experience in clinical and commercial production environments.
• Experience working with multi-omic data sets from clinical trials, supporting bioinformatic research efforts.
• Exposure to cell therapy and immunoprofiling applications, particularly within a clinical or translational research setting.
• Understanding of operational workflows in a regulated laboratory environment, including compliance with quality standards.

Our mission is to build an inclusive environment where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and employees. In furtherance of that mission, we welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their protected characteristics. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please complete the corresponding section in the application form.