Associate Principal Scientist, Vector Design

AstraZeneca is looking for a highly motivated, experienced and strategic Associate Principal Scientist, Vector Design to join our Viral Vector New Modality group within AstraZeneca’s Process Science and Technology (PSAT), Cell Therapy Development and Operation (CTDO) organization. The successful candidate will bring a combination of technical expertise in process development and project management skills. He/she is responsible for leading viral vector process development projects to ensure they meet quality, regulatory, and business goals on time. He/she will coordinate cross-functional teams, manages project timelines and resources, and communicates progress to stakeholders. This role will operate strategically in a highly collaborative environment. This role can be based in either Santa Monica, CA or Gaithersburg, MD.

Responsibilities

• Viral vector process design: Leading, supporting the design and development of scalable, cost-effective, GMP compliance LVV manufacturing processes to support a variety of ex vivo and in vivo cell therapy programs
• Project planning and execution: Initiating, planning, and overseeing the entire viral vector process development project lifecycle, from initial concept, lab build to manufacturing tech transfer
• Cross-functional team leadership: Managing and aligning diverse teams, including scientists and engineers, to ensure project goals are met
• Technical oversight: Partnering with technical leads to define deliverables, troubleshoot issues, and ensure the scientific and technical aspects of process development are sound
• Timeline and budget management: Developing and managing project timelines, adjusting as needed, and ensuring the project stays within budget
• Regulatory compliance: Ensuring all project activities adhere to relevant regulations, such as GMP and ICH guidelines
• Stakeholder communication: Serving as the main point of contact, providing updates to clients and internal stakeholders, and managing project communications
• Supply and lab management: managing vendors/suppliers/service providers to ensure smooth viral vector lab operations as needed
  
  

Education And Experience

• PhD in relevant Engineering or Science majors and 5 years of related industry experience or MS with 8 years of related industry experience, cell and gene therapy experience preferred
• Title will be commensurate with qualification and experience
  
  

Preferred Qualifications

• Previous experience in viral vector or CAR-T process development and project management
• Experience managing scale-up, tech-transfer, and implementation of manufacturing processes at internal and external manufacturing partners
• Knowledge of cGMP and Quality systems requirements, FDA guidance relevant to gene and cell therapy
• Proven ability to manage matrixed projects and tasks to completion, anticipating and elevating risks and obstacles, and adjusting to effective contingency plans
• Strong organization and record-keeping skills, including ability to manage multiple responsibilities in parallel
• A highly collaborative working style, track record of successful performance in a matrixed team environment
• Strong soft skills including communication, leadership, adaptability, and problem-solving skills
  
  

The annual base pay for this position ranges from $134,892.80 - $202,339.20. 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. 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

10-Nov-2025

Closing Date

27-Nov-2025

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.