AstraZeneca is looking for a highly motivated and experiencedSenior Scientist, Viral Vector Process Development (Upstream). The candidate will play a critical role in building and leading a high-performingteamthat accelerates AstraZeneca’s emerging Cell Therapy modalities portfolio. Youwill design, execute, andoptimizeupstream Lentiviral Vector (LVV) processes with a primary focus on suspensionbioreactor platforms at clinical and commercial scales. You will contribute hands-on to experimental design, process characterization, and scale-up/tech transfer activities from research throughINDenabling, partnering closely with Research, Analytical Development, CMC, Regulatory, Manufacturing, Quality, and external CDMOs.This position is based in Gaithersburg, MD.
Upstream Process Development: Plan and perform experiments to develop andoptimizeLVV upstream processes for suspensioncell culture (transient orstableproducer cell systems), targeting improvements intiter, quality, robustness, and cost.
Bioreactor Operations & Scale Translation: Execute unit operations across seed, production, and harvest interfaces; support scale-up strategies from bench to pilot and clinical scales; develop and use scale-down models for characterization and comparability.
Experimental Design & Data Analysis: Design DOE studies,identifyCPPs/CMAs, analyze data, and propose control strategies; document results in protocols and reports; maintainfit forpurposeknowledge records.
Process Characterization & Control: Contribute to definition of design space, in-process controls, and operating ranges; trend process performance and drive troubleshooting, root cause analysis, and corrective actions.
Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with Analytical Development on assay readiness andin processtesting; partner with Manufacturing, Supply, and Quality to ensure operational feasibility and compliance.
Operational Excellence: Apply Lean practices and digital tools for scheduling, data integrity, and reproducibility; track KPIs (titer, infectivity, impurity profiles, cycle time,right first time) and recommend improvements.
Education: PhD in Biology, Virology, Biotechnology, or related field with 2–5 years of relevant industry experience; or MS with 5–8 years; or BS with 8–10 years.Titlewill becommensuratewith qualifications and experience.
Technical Skills:Proficiencyin suspension cell culture, transfection/infection strategies, media/feed optimization,singleuse rocking-platform andstirred-tank bioreactors, and upstream–harvest interfaces; working knowledge of statistical DOE and data analytics tools.
At AstraZeneca, we are at the forefront of innovation with constant new products and launches. Our dynamic environment encourages collaboration and problem-solving as we strive to deliver life-changing medicines. We embrace challenges in rapidly changing markets by continuously seeking better ways to deliver medicines to patients. Our team is diverse and connected globally, working together to push the boundaries of supply chain excellence. With a focus on sustainability and a commitment to doing things the right way, we offer opportunities for growth and development in a supportive environment.
Join us in making a difference—apply today!
The annual base pay for this position ranges from $108,473.60 - $162,710.40. Hourly and salaried non-exempt employees will also be paid overtime pay when working qualifying overtime hours. Base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. In addition, our positions offer a short-term incentive bonus opportunity; eligibility to participate in our equity-based long-term incentive program (salaried roles), to receive a retirement contribution (hourly roles), and commission payment eligibility (sales roles). Benefits offered included a qualified retirement program [401(k) plan]; paid vacation and holidays; paid leaves; and, health benefits including medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans. Additional details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment. If hired, employee will be in an “at-will position” and the Company reserves the right to modify base pay (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.
Date Posted
11-Jan-2026
Closing Date
22-Jan-2026
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.