Scientist, Research Histologist, Early Oncology In Vivo Biosciences

Scientist, Research Histologist, Early Oncology In vivo Biosciences

Location: Waltham, MA

Do you have expertise in, and passion for oncology research? Would you like to apply your expertise to impact drug development in a company that follows the science and turns ideas into life changing medicines? Then employment at AstraZeneca might be the right choice for you!

The Opportunity

We are seeking a highly motivated Scientist in Targeted Tumor Delivery with strong scientific and technical expertise in oncology research with a track record of scientific excellence to join our team in Waltham, MA USA. As a Scientist in our Oncology R&D department you will be a key member of a team focused on supporting oncology projects through the drug discovery and development process. You will bring your theoretical and practical expertise in cancer biology to establish assay systems and deliver datasets that will have direct impact on targeted therapeutics.

What you'll do

• Work collaboratively with in vivo scientists to provide study-aligned histology endpoints as follows:
  • Characterize new mouse tumor models, including disseminated models of hematologic cancers, surgical models that include the relevant tumor microenvironment, and patient-derived models of cancer, including models developed from drug resistant patients.
  • Use IHC- based endpoints with established markers to support PK/PD and efficacy studies in mouse tumor models following therapeutic drug testing.
  • Develop new IHC markers for cell type and biomarker assessments in tumors and normal tissues.
• Use IHC- based endpoints with established markers to support PK/PD and efficacy studies in mouse tumor models following therapeutic drug testing.
• As a member of the histology core, provide general histology support on tumor and normal tissues from mouse xenograft studies, including tissue trimming, processing, embedding, microtomy, routine histochemical and immunohistochemical stains using automated staining platforms and archival of FFPE blocks.
• Develop new IHC markers for cell type and biomarker assessments in tumors and normal tissues.
• Characterize new mouse tumor models, including disseminated models of hematologic cancers, surgical models that include the relevant tumor microenvironment, and patient-derived models of cancer, including models developed from drug resistant patients.

• Generate validation reports when new IHC markers are developed.
• Digitally archive slides using the Aperio platform; prepare power point summaries for review with project team members.
• Experimental data capture in study reports using our electronic notebook platform.
• Data documentation and reports:
  • Digitally archive slides using the Aperio platform; prepare power point summaries for review with project team members.
  • Experimental data capture in study reports using our electronic notebook platform.
  • Generate validation reports when new IHC markers are developed.

Basic Qualifications

• Works equally well independently and in collaboration to execute assigned in a manner consistent with project goals. Reports data in a clear and concise manner, with a comprehensive understanding of its implications within the overall context of drug discovery.
• Track record of delivering innovative solutions to complex problems, including optimizing protocols to improve signal amplification.
• Strong interpersonal and collaboration skills together with evidence of having used these to support problem solving and delivery in a collaborative environment.
• Experience using image analysis platforms such as HALO for quantitative analysis of IHC endpoints a plus.
• Experience and competency in performing routine histology procedures, including trimming, embedding, sectioning and staining tissues.
• BS in Biology or related subject area, with 1+ year relevant experience, including experience in Biopharma.
• Proficiency in delivering IHC staining for large studies using automated staining platforms.

Preferred Qualifications

• Knowledge of the drug discovery process and publications in credible scientific journals
• Prior experience in the biopharmaceutical industry preferable but not required.
• MS Degree in Biology or related subject area
• Familiarity with antibody drug conjugates or other targeted delivery modalities

Site Description

Our Waltham, MA facility builds life-changing medicines for people around the world. The modern, vibrant scientific campus employs more than 800 experts in our field, and it is only a short drive from Boston, MA. It is filled with innovative technology. Our work areas were built to facilitate teamwork, interaction and cross functional science. We believe employees benefit from being challenged and inspired at work.

The Boston R&D site, located in Waltham, MA, is situated within a biopharma cluster of academic research institutions, medical centers, pharmaceutical companies and biotech startups. The Boston region is consistently ranked #1 globally for biotech research, investment, talent recruitment and lab space. Site amenities include:

• Vibrant site community with activities, clubs, sports & games
• Modern 64-acre campus nestled in 200+ acres of nature conservation land & hiking trails
• Onsite outdoor activities (e.g. frisbee golf, garden club, volleyball, etc.)
• Onsite business & meeting center, office, AV & catering support
• Flexible, agile lab design with co-located write-up space

It is a great place to work in the heart of one of the world’s most vibrant research cities.

So, what’s next?

• Are you already imagining yourself joining our team? Good, because we can’t wait to hear from you!

Where can I find out more?

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