Mechanistic Pharmacology Senior Scientist

Job Description

Location: Cambridge Sciene ParkSalary: CompetitiveBecome a key player in the discovery of innovative medicinesAt AstraZeneca, we win through science, it’s at the heart of our every success. We continuously forge partnerships to expand our science to help pursue extraordinary medicines in new ways, combining our people’s outstanding skills with those of people from all over the globe. As a Senior Scientist, you’ll play a pivotal role in channelling our scientific capabilities to make a positive impact on changing patients’ lives.We are seeking a highly motivated and skilled PhD-level scientist with a strong background in molecular pharmacology and cell signalling to join the AstraZeneca Safety and Mechanistic Pharmacology team at our Cambridge, UK research hub. You will perform in vitro studies to assess the potential off-target activities of novel therapeutic modalities on normal tissue/cellular function, seeking a mechanistic understanding of unanticipated toxicities from projects developing novel medicines. You will work closely with a team of scientists to apply cutting edge technologies and push the boundaries of predictive safety science with our mission in mind: to discover safe innovative medicines for the patients that need them.The RoleYou will be an integral contributor to AstraZeneca’s early pipeline across all of our therapy areas, working to support drug discovery by:• Developing testable hypotheses and driving scientific learning by building an understanding of biology around novel targets and pathways, both experimentally and using a wide range of knowledge sources• Designing and executing molecular, biochemical, and/or cellular experiments to determine the effects of novel therapeutic modalities across a broad range of pharmacological targets• Leveraging multi-modal approaches and techniques (such as multi-omics, high throughput imaging, artificial intelligence) for the development of physiologically-relevant cellular assays to dissect biological responses at a mechanistic levelMinimum Requirements• A PhD in pharmacology, enzymology, molecular toxicology or similar discipline (or equivalent experience in the pharma industry) with at least 2 years of post-doctoral research• Well-developed understanding of pharmacological principles (e.g. partial and inverse agonism, allosteric modulation)• Experience exploring pharmacological features of test compounds on biological systems (functional readouts including reporter assays, second messenger signaling, protein trafficking, ‘omics methods)• A strong publication record demonstrating scientific excellence applying molecular techniques to advance understanding of cellular biology• Outstanding oral presentation and written communication skills• Highly motivated, innovative scientist with strong influencing skills and a collaborative, team-oriented mindset.At AstraZeneca, we place a strong emphasis on individual talent development. Join us and you will be able to develop your scientific leadership by working together with leaders in cell biology, advanced imaging, ‘omic technologies, microphysiological systems, drug discovery and predictive safety science.Apply now to be considered for this exciting opportunity.Closing date: 5th June 2020.AstraZeneca embraces diversity and equality of opportunity. We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse team representing all backgrounds, with as wide a range of perspectives as possible, and harnessing industry-leading skills. We believe that the more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. We welcome and consider applications to join our team from all qualified candidates, regardless of their characteristics. We comply with all applicable laws and regulations on non-discrimination in employment (and recruitment), as well as work authorisation and employment eligibility verification requirements.