Senior Scientist, Flow Cytometry Specialist – Discovery Integrated Bioanalysis Full-time NEW

Senior Scientist, Flow Cytometry Specialist – Discovery Integrated Bioanalysis

We are seeking a highly skilled lab-based Flow Cytometry expert to develop, execute, and troubleshoot high complexity assays across AstraZeneca's vast preclinical and clinical drug pipeline. The ideal candidate brings deep technical proficiency, extensive hands-on laboratory experience, and a commitment to lifelong learning—particularly the use of AI and computational tools to elevate scientific output. This role requires independence, scientific rigor, and the ability to mentor others within a matrix team environment without direct line management responsibilities.

As a key member of the Discovery Integrated Bioanalysis (iBA) Global Team, you will deliver high-quality Flow Cytometry endpoints for preclinical and clinical studies. Your focus will include target engagement, cellular kinetics, and pharmacodynamic biomarkers. Approximately 70% of your time will be spent in the laboratory, developing, validating, and interpreting advanced flow cytometry based bioanalytical methods, both internally and in collaboration with CRO partners.

You will collaborate across iBA and therapeutic area teams to advance emerging bioanalytical technologies, contribute to data driven project decisions, and help shape strategy for programs. You will be expected to challenge the status quo and innovate by taking advantage of AZ's commitment to AI. You'll also have opportunities to engage in biodistribution, immunogenicity, and other platform areas as part of our agile, multidisciplinary environment.

What You'll Do

• Perform hands-on execution of high complexity flow cytometry assays, including method development, optimization, and transfer to CRO partners.
• Review, interpret, and troubleshoot assay data to ensure fitness for purpose.
• Serve as a subject matter expert in assay design, analytic performance, and technical operations.
• Partner closely with bioanalytical strategy leads to ensure robust assay alignment with intended use.
• Contribute scientific insight to project teams and represent iBA through internal/external presentations or publications.
• Foster strong collaborations across AstraZeneca and with external partners to ensure smooth method transfer and scientific alignment.
• Apply and continuously expand proficiency in AI supported analysis, coding tools (R, Python), and computational workflows to enhance data quality and efficiency.
• Maintain high-quality documentation supporting regulatory filings.
• Manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast paced, highly collaborative environment.

Required Education & Experience

• Ph.D. with 0+ years of experience OR a BS/MS with 5+ years of experience with demonstrable deep laboratory expertise.
• Extensive hands-on laboratory experience with flow cytometry assay development and execution.
• Proven ability to work independently and mentor junior scientists.

Preferred Qualifications

• PhD in immunology, molecular biology, or a closely related discipline with 2+ years of relevant experience is preferred.
• Demonstrated expertise in developing, qualifying, and validating flow cytometry assays for preclinical and/or clinical applications.
• Experience with spectral flow cytometry and high dimensional analysis (e.g., PCA, dimensionality reduction).
• Proficiency with data analysis platforms such as OMIQ and coding/AI tools (e.g., R, Python, GitHub, etc) applicable to bioanalytical workflows.
• Strong track record of troubleshooting, experimental design, and data interpretation.
• Experience collaborating with CROs/research organizations on assay validation, sample testing, and data review.
• Experience working in or in association with a regulated environment (GxP or clinical) preferred but not required.
• Familiarity with bioanalytical needs across multiple therapeutic modalities.
• Experience with robotic automation for efficiency in operations.
• Excellent communication skills, scientific writing capability, and evidence of publication or presentation.

Work Environment

We value in person collaboration to drive innovation and maintain a standard of scientific excellence. Team members typically work a minimum of four days per week on site at our Gaithersburg research hub.

Ready to make a difference? Apply now and join us in our mission to improve the lives of patients through life-changing medicines!