Scientist, Protein Sciences & Analytics, Biologics Engineering -High throughput Developability ...

Scientist, Protein Sciences & Analytics, Biologics Engineering - High throughput Developability assays

Location: Cambridge, UK

Salary: Competitive with excellent benefits

Introduction to the Role

Early-stage biologics developability is essential for identifying molecular liabilities before candidates enter intensive downstream development. By applying high-throughput biophysical assays and in silico approaches, developability scientists generate rich datasets that reveal how sequence and structural features influence molecular behaviour. These experimentally grounded insights not only guide engineering decisions but also serve as high-quality training data for generative machine learning models, enabling the predictive design of more stable, manufacturable biologic therapeutics from the beginning.

Biologics Engineering Function in the UK is based at our new state-of-the-art Discovery Centre (DISC) located on the Cambridge Biomedical Campus. Biologics Engineering is responsible for the discovery and optimisation of biological candidate drugs to support all therapy area drug discovery pipelines and for the development of in-house biologics discovery platforms and novel drug modalities to support future drug discovery efforts.

About the Role

We are seeking a highly skilled and motivated Scientist to support our biologics discovery pipeline by generating and interpreting high-quality developability data. The role involves providing experimental support to the high-throughput developability platforms to characterise on a diverse biologic modalities. Techniques include BLI (BioLayerInterferometry), ELISAs (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assays), DSF (Differential Scanning Fluorimetry), DLS (Dynamic Light Scattering), and automation workflows.

The successful candidate will join the Analytics and Developability Team in Cambridge and will be responsible for executing experiments; developing and validating assays; implementing automation solutions; and performing complex correlative data analyses to generate actionable insights. This primarily lab based role requires close collaboration within a multidisciplinary team focused on biologics production and characterization, working closely with partners across therapy areas and Data Science & Artificial Intelligence.

Key Responsibilities

• Execute experiments using BLI (Octet) and ELISAs to evaluate/screen biologics for non-specific binding and self-association.
• Execute experiments for stability and particle characterization of biologics using the Prometheus Panta (DSF and DLS) or similar instruments.
• Ability to work with different automation solutions to streamline experimental workflows and increase efficiency.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data, including performing complex correlative analyses linking biophysical parameters to PK properties across diverse biologic modalities, and present findings to cross-functional teams.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to support drug discovery projects by providing expertise in protein-protein interactions.
• Stay abreast of the latest scientific and technological advancements in the field of developability and contribute to the implementation of new techniques and methodologies.

Essential Requirements

• BSc/MSc degree and/or with equivalent lab-based experience.
• Hands-on experience with Octet and high-throughput ELISA assays to evaluate/screen biologics for non-specific binding and self-association.
• Hands-on experience designing and determining stability measurements by DSF/DLS platforms (preferably with hands-on experience on the Prometheus Panta or equivalent instrument).
• Demonstrated hand-on experience developing and operating automation workflows, including the integration of biochemical/biophysical assay formats into high-throughput platforms.
• Experience performing statistical analyses.
• Excellent understanding of different Post-translational modifications (PTMs) and impact on biologics developability.
• Ability to provide solutions to a variety of complex problems e.g., ability to dissect complex biophysical properties.
• Ability to optimise protocols, troubleshoot, interpret experimental results/data, and maintain accurate, high quality and up-to-date experimental records.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary team environment and with an ability to quickly learn and embrace new technologies.

Desirable Requirements

• Experience with in silico protein structure analysis tools (AlphaFold, RoseTTAFold, etc.).
• Experience with other biophysical characterisation techniques, such as SPR and mass spectrometry.
• Experience with molecular biology, protein purification and cell culture techniques.
• Experience working in a high-throughput environment, as well as using high-throughput automation and liquid-handling systems e.g., Hamilton Robotics liquid handlers.
• A background in biologics drug discovery and development in the pharmaceutical industry.
• Experience with Signals ELN and Genedata Biologics platforms.

Why AstraZeneca

AstraZeneca is a science-led, global biopharmaceutical company, with a focused portfolio in core therapies. At AstraZeneca we turn ideas into life-changing medicines. We are committed to improving the health and lives of people across the globe, through our research and development platform, and a growing late-stage pipeline. Working in over 100 countries, we have strength in emerging markets, and our medicines are used by millions of patients and clinicians worldwide. Working here means being results-oriented and working together to make the impossible a reality.

Here you will apply cutting-edge biophysics, automation, and AI-enabled analytics to help transform the future of cancer treatment. We unite decisive, science-driven teams who act fast on smart risks, speak up, and challenge convention-always guided by evidence. With a deep pipeline and unparalleled data, you will collaborate with diverse experts, learn across disciplines, and see your work directly influence how new medicines move forward. We value kindness alongside ambition, and we bring unexpected teams together to unleash bold thinking that turns complex problems into meaningful progress for patients.

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If you're ready to turn high-throughput developability data into better biologics with real patient impact, step into this Cambridge role and show us how you will elevate our science and speed our decisions!