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About this Drug Discovery Research Scientist role at AstraZeneca

AstraZeneca · Onsite · US - Gaithersburg - MD

Brief Job Profile Description 

We are seeking a highly motivated and independent in vivo Scientist to join our growing Cell Therapy Team. In this hands-on role, you will use your expertise in in vivo research to design and perform studies that support the development of innovative Cell Therapies. Your work will include establishing and working with tumor models, administering cells and treatments, developing experimental methods, and analyzing and communicating scientific data. You will work closely with colleagues across disciplines in a collaborative environment to help advance promising Cell Therapy programs.


Typical Accountabilities 

  • Designing and conducting in vivo studies: Independently planning and performing hands-on studies supporting Cell Therapy programs, contributing to study design, experimental strategy, model selection, and endpoint definition. 
  • Performing in vivo procedures: Conducting animal handling, dosing of test articles and/ or effector cells, collecting samples (blood, tumor, and tissues), monitoring tumor burden (calipers and bioluminescent imaging), making clinical observations, and performing other study-related assessments in line with approved protocols and training. 
  • Generating and documenting high-quality data: Accurately collecting, recording, and quality-checking experimental data, observations, sample information, and study records. 
  • Interpreting and communicating results: Assessing, interpreting, and presenting data clearly and concisely while considering its implications within the context of Cell Therapy, in vivo pharmacology, and broader drug-discovery objectives. 
  • Managing experimental delivery: Organizing and prioritizing work to deliver agreed study activities and milestones within defined timelines and quality standards, communicating progress, risks, and findings. 
  • Collaborating and maintaining compliance: Working effectively across teams to support project delivery, while ensuring that their work is performed in compliance with appropriate Safety, Health & Environment (SHE), quality, and regulatory requirements, including laboratory standards (GLS).

Qualifications and Skills

  • Essential: 6+ years of rodent technical experience or Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline with 2+ years of rodent technical experience; demonstrated experience with in vivo pharmacology, Cell Therapy, Immunology, Immuno-Oncology, or a related discipline; extensive in vivo skillset including animal handling, the use of mouse tumor models, proficiency in standard dosing and engraftment techniques, and experience with tissue collection and processing; ability to design, execute, and troubleshoot in vivo experiments, and to review, analyze, interpret, and communicate experimental results; effective communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work independently and as part of a team while maintaining accurate records and working in accordance with approved protocols. 
  • Desirable: Advanced cell culture techniques; a well-developed understanding of molecular and cellular biology, immunological assays, and cell transfection/ transduction; experience with genome editing technologies (CRISPR/ Cas9, base-editing, transposons, etc.); experience with multicolor flow cytometry; in vitro and in vivo experience with murine T cells; basic experience developing cell therapies including CAR-T/ CAR-NK, TCR-T, and/ or TIL therapies; background in drug discovery and development in the pharmaceutical industry. 



The annual base pay (or hourly rate of compensation) for this position ranges from $92,252.00 to $138,378.00 . Our positions offer eligibility for various incentives—an opportunity to receive short-term incentive bonuses, equity-based awards for salaried roles and commissions for sales roles. Benefits offered include qualified retirement programs, paid time off (i.e., vacation, holiday, and leaves), as well as health, dental, and vision coverage in accordance with the terms of the applicable plans. 

Date Posted

20-Oct-2026

Closing Date

08-Nov-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.

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How this Research Scientist salary compares

This role pays $115,315/yr — below the typical range for Research Scientist roles.

$114,400 median $175,500 $288,580

Typical range $148,000–$212,000/yr, from 29 comparable Research Scientist listings on JobsRadar (pay annualized to USD). See Research Scientist salary insights →

About AstraZeneca

AstraZeneca is a global, science-led, patient-focused biopharmaceutical company. We focus on discovering, developing and commercialising prescription medicines for some of the world’s most serious diseases. But we are more than one of the world’s leading pharmaceutical companies. At AstraZeneca, we’re dedicated to being a Great Place to Work. Where you are empowered to push the boundaries of science, challenge convention and unleash your entrepreneurial spirit. To embrace differences and take bold actions to drive the change needed to meet global healthcare and sustainability challenges. There is no better place to make a difference in medicine, patients, and society. An inclusive culture wh

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