Senior Scientist – Protein Science Full-time

Senior Scientist Position

We are seeking a Senior Scientist to join the Protein Sciences, Structure and Biophysics department within Discovery Sciences. In this role, your expertise in Protein Sciences will play a key role in accelerating drug discovery. The position is based at our vibrant AstraZeneca R&D site in Gothenburg, Sweden.

In this lab-based role, we rely on you to produce and characterize diverse types of target proteins for different applications to enable drug discovery. We specifically want you to take ownership of our semi-automated streamlined protein supply workflows using different types of equipment.

What you'll do?

You will regularly work across functional boundaries to define what is needed for discovery projects and lead protein work to deliver to that. With your knowledge in a range of procedures relating to construct design, protein expression and purification, you will plan and conduct laboratory projects and experimental strategies, develop methods and technologies, generate, interpret and report scientific data autonomously.

To be successful in this role you also need to enjoy collaboration and teamwork – and have the skill to interact and communicate efficiently across interfaces of global functions and fields in a multi-cultural setting. This goes hand in hand with your problem-solving and critical thinking skills, and strong delivery focus.

Your structured mindset, passion for delivering F.A.I.R. data, good communication and team-working skills will help solve scientific challenges and advance projects. We offer a dynamic, learning-rich environment that encourages creative thinking, bold decision-making, and a culture where we learn fast without fear of failure.

Typical accountabilities will include:

• Designing constructs for recombinant protein production for different expression systems
• Expression of proteins using different E. coli strains. Labelling of proteins for NMR.
• Ownership of our automated protein supply workflows
• Good understanding of how to operate protein chromatography systems and how to setup bespoke purification methods
• Registration of generated data and a keen interest in how data flows between the different management systems
• Good understanding of the different quality needs for downstream applications such as structure, biophysics and assay
• Process improvement: Identify bottlenecks, optimize protocols, and introduce continuous improvement practices and documentation
• Troubleshooting: Diagnose and resolve technical issues independently; ensure timely data delivery aligned to project milestones
• Cross-functional collaboration: Work closely with laboratory scientists and project teams in Discovery Sciences, Cardiovascular, Renal & Metabolism (CVRM) and Respiratory & Immunology (R&I) in Gothenburg and globally, supporting drug discovery programs

Essential requirements for the role:

• PhD in biochemistry, or an MSc degree with significant relevant experience from pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry
• Expertise and proven knowledge of a wide range of methods and technologies applied to the expression, purification and characterization of a diverse set of target proteins. E.g. construct design and protein engineering, bacterial expression, protein labelling protocols, liquid chromatography, SDS-PAGE, mass spectrometry and biophysical techniques
• Expert in protein purifications using liquid based chromatography including use of software
• Excellent communication skills and an ability to operate effectively in multi-disciplinary research environments
• Independent troubleshooting and decision making to diagnose and resolve technical issues

Desirable requirements for the role:

• Expertise in AI-based tools to perform construct design
• Use of AI-based tools to optimize workflows
• Experience in lab automation or related engineering roles within R&D, biotech, or pharma

Why AstraZeneca?

At AstraZeneca, we follow the science to explore and innovate. We are committed to treating, preventing, modifying and even curing some of the world's most complex diseases. Our team is driven by our desire to understand and reveal new insights. We are always learning from those living with diseases and harnessing digital, data science & AI to fast-forward our research. Join us as we push the boundaries of science to deliver life-changing medicines.

What's next? If this sounds like the place and role for you – apply today! We look forward to getting to know you better! Welcome with your application no later than May 5, 2026. For more information about the position, please contact hiring manager Lovisa Holmberg Schiavone; Lovisa.holmberg.schiavone@astrazeneca.com