AstraZeneca·Gaithersburg, Maryland
The role involves designing and executing research experiments to develop novel cancer vaccines and immunotherapeutics. Key duties include establishing cell-based assays, performing analytical characterization of targets, and interpreting complex datasets to guide drug discovery.
We are seeking a highly motivated scientist with extensive expertise in cancer immunology/immunotherapy.
The successful candidate will have substantial experience in studying Immunopeptidome, T cells and myeloid cells both in vivo and in vitro, with a specific interest in cancer vaccines.
You will independently design and execute projects/experiments, troubleshoot and optimize methods, generate, interpret, and report scientific data clearly and concisely.
A PhD in Immunology or a related field and a proven postdoctoral record with strong publications are required.
Strong expertise working with human tissues is required and knowledge of mouse tumor models is desirable.
As a Senior Scientist, you will be a key member of a team focused on designing novel Immunotherapeutics with an emphasis on cancer vaccines, supporting projects through the drug discovery and development process.
You will bring your theoretical and practical expertise in immunology to establish assay systems and deliver datasets that will have a direct impact on immune-oncology therapeutics.
Accountabilities Set up and conduct mechanistic cancer immunology and drug discovery research experiments using techniques in immunology, molecular, and cellular biology.
Maintain a well-developed understanding of approaches to investigate the vaccines, function of T cells, myeloid cells, and aspects of drug discovery.
Cell-based assay development: Establish, optimize, and perform cell-based assays using both cell lines and primary cells to evaluate vaccine function, expression, and immunological readouts.
Analytical characterization: Apply immunopeptidomics, flow cytometry, fluorescent imaging of cells, and measurement of protein expression to validate target and characterize vaccine performance and mechanism of action.
Data Analytics and Interpretation: Make detailed observations, analyze complex datasets, and independently interpret results to guide next decisions.
Assess and report data with little guidance in a clear and concise manner with a strong understanding of its implications within the overall context of drug discovery.
Documentation and Quality: Prepare clear protocols, quantitative analyses, and detailed technical summaries; maintain accurate, audit-ready documentation across studies.
Scientific Communication: Present findings with clarity to internal teams and external audiences; publish high-quality work in peer-reviewed journals to shape the scientific field.
Actively liaise between programs/departments, sharing scientific knowledge and feedback on others’ experiments to ensure efficient relay of information and translation of data.
Essential Skills/Experience A PhD, or equivalent experience, in immunology with minimum of 2 years of postdoctoral experience.
Extensive experience in studying T cells and myeloid cells.
Experience with the analysis of immunopeptidome.
Hands-on experience with cell-based assays for cancer immunotherapy programs.
Strong hands-on skills in basic biochemical and immunological methods including multi-color flow cytometry (FACS), ELISA/multiplex assays, ELISPOT, cell killing assays, and high content imaging Excellent organizational and communication skills.
Ability to work in a collaborative, fast-paced environment while planning and meeting timelines.
Proven track record of success in your research, and experience preparing written scientific reports (e.g., manuscripts) and oral presentations to broad and diverse audiences.
Desirable Skills/Experience Experience working with RNA is a plus 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 four 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.
At AstraZeneca, we follow the science and pioneer new frontiers.
Join our Infectious Disease team dedicated to extending our unique ideas and technologies with an ambition to eliminate cancer as a cause of death.
With multiple indications and high-quality molecules at all stages of our innovative pipeline, we keep pushing forward fusing cutting-edge science with the latest technology to achieve breakthroughs.
Our environment is built on courage, curiosity, and collaboration.
We make bold decisions driven by patient outcomes.
Empowered to lead at every level, scientists are free to ask questions and take smart risks that write the next chapter for our pipeline.
Pioneers of collaborative research, we have built an unrivalled scientific community both internally and externally.
Working seamlessly together, we expedite research in some of the hardest-to-treat diseases.
Have the opportunity to build a rewarding career as part of the team committed to improving the lives of millions with cancer.
Ready to make a difference?
Apply today!
The annual base salary for this position ranges from $116,284.00 to $174,426.00.
However, 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 (salaried roles) or to receive a retirement contribution (hourly roles).
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 salary (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 24-Jul-2026
30-Aug-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.
A PhD in Immunology or a related field with at least 2 years of postdoctoral experience is required. Candidates must have extensive expertise in immunopeptidomics, T cells, myeloid cells, and multi-color flow cytometry.
Market context
In Maryland, senior scientist roles in immunopeptidomics are typically concentrated in research-heavy biotech, pharma, and academic settings, so demand is strongest for candidates who can bridge discovery science with translational work. This role is competitive because it requires a PhD, postdoctoral experience, and deep hands-on expertise in immunopeptidomics, T cells, myeloid cells, and multi-color flow cytometry. Review the AI-summarized requirements and benefits here to save time, then tailor your application to show direct platform and assay experience.