Scientist Job at AstraZeneca UK
Ready to take your career to the next level with a high-impact Scientist job in the UK? AstraZeneca is offering an exciting opportunity for professionals passionate about protein expression and purification. This role is a perfect job opportunity for life science graduates looking to work on cutting-edge biologics and contribute to life-changing therapies through AstraZeneca Careers.
About AstraZeneca
AstraZeneca is a leading global biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering, developing, and delivering innovative medicines. With a strong emphasis on R&D, AstraZeneca is at the forefront of biologics, oncology, and rare disease research. Through AstraZeneca Careers, the company provides exceptional opportunities for professionals, including this Scientist job, making it a top choice for those seeking a job in UK and a meaningful Job opportunity for life science graduates.
Job Details:
- Job Title: Scientist – Protein Expression & Large-Scale Purification
- Location: Cambridge, England, United Kingdom
- Company: AstraZeneca
- Job ID: R-248102
- Closing: 31 March 2026
Role Overview
This Scientist role at AstraZeneca sits at the intersection of bioprocess development and scale-up, focusing on translating recombinant protein production from lab scale to pilot-scale (50–500 L). Your work directly supports toxicology studies and clinical manufacturing readiness, making it a highly impactful role in the biologics pipeline.
Key Responsibilities
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Bioprocess & Purification
- Lead primary clarification of bioreactors using centrifugation and depth filtration
- Perform pilot-scale protein purification using systems like ÄKTA chromatography system
- Develop polishing steps to improve purity and remove impurities
-
Scale-Up & Manufacturing Support
- Execute scale-up processes prior to clinical manufacturing
- Generate data to support tech transfer and clinical readiness
- Contribute to toxicology supply production
-
Filtration & Downstream Processing
- Perform ultrafiltration/diafiltration (UF/DF)
- Optimize buffer exchange and protein concentration
-
Analytics & Characterization
- Use techniques such as:
- Size Exclusion Chromatography (SEC-HPLC)
- UV-Visible Spectroscopy
- Osmolarity testing
- Drive data-based process improvements
- Use techniques such as:
-
Innovation & Collaboration
- Contribute to new technology development projects
- Work cross-functionally with process development, analytical, and formulation teams
- Mentor junior scientists and students
-
Compliance & Safety
- Follow safety regulations including COSHH regulations and biological safety guidelines
- Maintain accurate documentation and data integrity
Required Qualifications
- Degree (BSc/MSc/PhD) in Life Sciences and Bioprocess Engineering
- Hands-on experience in protein purification at scale (50–500 L)
- Experience with:
- Centrifugation and filtration systems
- Pilot-scale chromatography (e.g., ÄKTA systems)
- UF/DF processes
- Analytical techniques like HPLC, UV-Vis
Desirable Skills
- Experience with mammalian cell culture and bioreactors
- Knowledge of large-scale tangential flow filtration (TFF)
- Batch record preparation and process documentation
- Exposure to data science / AI tools (e.g., JMP)
- Column packing and filter sizing
Why is this Scientist Job high-value?
This is a mid-to-advanced level role in biologics development with strong impact because you:
- Work on clinical-stage molecules
- Gain pilot-scale manufacturing experience (rare & highly valued)
- Bridge R&D → Manufacturing (critical industry skill)
- Build expertise in downstream processing, one of the most in-demand biotech skills.
