Scientist – Bioscience Oncology, Antibody Drug-Conjugates (lab-based)

Introduction to role:

Are you ready to turn deep cancer biology expertise into tangible progress for patients by advancing next-generation antibody drug-conjugates? In this lab-based role, you will design and deliver decisive in vitro data that guide how we select, refine, and accelerate ADC candidates toward the clinic.

Based at our Gaithersburg, MD campus, you will join a hands-on team working at pace to unravel mechanisms of action and resistance, directly influencing combination strategies and biomarker plans. How will your mastery of complex cell-based assays translate into confident decisions that shape our pipeline and ultimately change how cancer is treated?

Accountabilities:

• In Vitro Design and Execution: Develop, conduct, and analyze robust in vitro experiments to evaluate the function of ADC candidates across 2D and 3D models, delivering high-quality data that drive portfolio decisions.
• Mechanism of Action and Resistance: Dissect target engagement, internalization, trafficking, and downstream signaling to clarify payload effects and resistance mechanisms, generating actionable hypotheses for combinations and clinical translation.
• Data Analytics and Interpretation: Apply appropriate statistical methods, build clear data narratives, and create visualizations that turn complex results into confident, decision-ready insights for project teams.
• Assay Development and Optimization: Establish, optimize, and validate protein- and cell-based binding and bioassays to improve reproducibility, throughput, and fit-for-purpose controls across programs.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with antibody engineering, chemistry, and translational colleagues to align experiments with target biology and project strategy, presenting findings that influence candidate selection and IND-enabling activities.
• Operational Excellence and Integrity: Maintain meticulous records, uphold research integrity and safety standards, manage timelines effectively, and continuously improve lab workflows to deliver at pace.
• Scientific Communication and Influence: Author high-quality reports and present data to internal stakeholders, connecting lab outcomes to patient impact and informing clinical development plans.

Essential Skills/Experience:

• Bachelors with 3-5 years’ experience or a Master’s with 1+ years’ experience in cancer biology.
• Essential requirements include:
  • experience with a range of research-related skills;
  • 2-dimensional [2D] cell culture
  • 3-dimensional [3D] cell culture
  • cellular viability and proliferation assays
  • flow cytometry
  • cell signaling bioassays
  • internalization/trafficking assays
  • protein-based and cell-based binding assays
  • experience with data and statistical analyses;
  • abilities to work independently with minimal supervision;
  • strong interpersonal and collaborative skills;
  • strong problem solving and critical thinking capabilities;
  • excellent written and verbal communication skills;
  • excellent organization-associated and time-management skills.
• Candidates must also exhibit interest in and commitment to cancer research and awareness of and commitment to research integrity.

Desirable Skills/Experience:

• Familiarization with drug discovery processes and solid tumor models
• knowledge of drug resistance mechanisms
• experience with antibody-based treatments and or combined-treatment strategies

When we put unexpected teams in the same room, we unleash bold thinking with the power to inspire life-changing medicines. In-person working gives us the platform we need to connect, work at pace and challenge perceptions. That's why we work, on average, a minimum of three days per week from the office. But that doesn't mean we're not flexible. We balance the expectation of being in the office while respecting individual flexibility. Join us in our unique and ambitious world.

The annual base pay for this position ranges from $92,252.00 - $138,378.00 USD. 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.

Why AstraZeneca:

Join a science-led company where your lab discoveries directly shape a broad, ambitious oncology pipeline and bring new modalities to life. You will work with cutting-edge technologies, rich datasets, and multidisciplinary teams that move quickly, think boldly, and learn together—combining molecular insight with practical experimentation to create therapies that matter. We value kindness alongside ambition, empower courageous ideas, and provide the collaborative environment and support needed to turn rigorous data into real patient impact.

Call to Action:

If you’re ready to build decisive in vitro evidence that propels next-generation ADCs toward patients, take the next step and submit your application today.

Date Posted

Closing Date

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.