Associate Principal Scientist (Associate Director)

AstraZeneca

US - Waltham - MAPosted 26 days agoDiscoveredMatch locked

Full time

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Waltham, MA

The Rare Cancer Unit is a dedicated group within AstraZeneca Oncology R&D focused on discovering and advancing

transformative therapies for patients with rare and underserved cancers

—including

neuro-oncology , and other rare malignancies

of high unmet needs, where standard-of-care options are limited or nonexistent. The Unit works across modalities including  small molecules, biologics, bioconjugates, targeted protein degraders (PROTACs), gene therapy (AAV/lentivirus), RNA/mRNA therapeutics, and cancer vaccines , and partners closely with translational medicine, clinical development, and external academic collaborators to accelerate first-in-class programs into the clinic.

Position Summary

The Associate Principal Scientist /Associate Director will provide

scientific leadership and hands-on experimental expertise

to rare cancer discovery programs, with a primary focus on  neuro-oncology indications such as glioblastoma and pediatric brain tumors . The successful candidate will design and execute complex biology experiments across advanced in vitro and orthotopic in vivo models, interpret data to guide program direction, and serve as a key scientific voice across cross-functional teams spanning oncology, immuno-oncology, viral vector engineering, and targeted protein degradation. Key Responsibilities •

Lead and contribute to discovery programs

aimed at identifying novel therapeutic strategies for rare CNS cancers, including

glioblastoma and pediatric brain tumors

, encompassing target validation, mechanism-of-action (MOA) studies, and translational research. •

Design and execute complex in vitro and in vivo experiments

, including  2D/3D glioma models, patient-derived and cell line–derived xenografts, syngeneic mouse models, orthotopic intracranial implantation, and in vivo bioluminescence imaging . •

Engineer tumor models

via  lentiviral transduction, AAV delivery, CRISPR/Cas9 editing, and si /shRNA knockdown  to overexpress or ablate targets of interest. •

Advance targeted protein degradation strategies (PROTACs)

for oncoprotein degradation in brain and other rare tumors, building on established programs in BRD4 and related targets. •

Evaluate novel immunotherapy approaches

, targeting TAA and beyond and immune cell engagers, in relevant preclinical models.

Assess the impact of standard of the care (chemo/ radiation, TTF , and combination therapies )  on target expression, tumor behavior, and tumor microenvironment dynamics specific to neurooncology .

•

Analyze and interpret experimental data

to evaluate therapeutic hypotheses, assess efficacy, potency, and safety signals, and inform go/no-go program decisions. •

Serve as scientific liaison across functions

, including Neuroscience, Immuno-Oncology, Translational Medicine, and Clinical Development, to advance integrated therapeutic strategies for rare CNS cancers. •

Present scientific findings

to internal leadership, governance committees, and external partners; contribute to publications, patents, and regulatory documents. •

Provide scientific mentorship

to junior scientists, associates, and postdoctoral fellows, and ensure technical rigor across the team. •

Contribute to portfolio strategy

by shaping experimental roadmaps, identifying novel targets, and evaluating external opportunities including academic collaborations and in-licensing.

Minimum Qualifications

•

PhD

in Cell Biology, Cancer Biology, Molecular Biology, or a closely related discipline. •

5+ years

of postdoctoral and/or industry experience in

oncology drug discovery or translational research

, with demonstrated productivity in

neuro-oncology

Demonstrated expertise in

glioblastoma and pediatric brain tumor (DIPG) biology

, advanced cellular models, and

orthotopic intracranial in vivo models

Hands-on experience with

AAV and lentivirus production

, CRISPR/Cas9 engineering, and viral vector–based therapeutics.

Experience with

targeted protein degradation (PROTACs)

and small-molecule mechanism-of-action characterization.

Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals in oncology, neuro-oncology, and molecular biology.

Proven ability to work in

cross-functional, matrixed environments

Preferred Qualifications

Dual training or experience spanning

cancer biology, neuro-oncology, and immuno-oncology

Experience with

immune cell engagers, immune checkpoint modulation (

, and combination immunotherapy strategies.

Experience with

high-throughput drug screening

(96/384-well formats) and DNA damage response biology.

Familiarity with

rare disease drug development

, regulatory pathways, and orphan drug designation.

Experience co-directing or managing

core facilities

and leading laboratory operations.

Track record of

peer review and scientific service

in oncology and molecular biology journals.

Experience mentoring scientists and leading small project teams.

Multi-lingual communication skills to support global collaborations.

Key Competencies

Scientific leadership and independent judgment

Cross-disciplinary communication across oncology, neuroscience, and immunology

Data-driven decision-making

Collaboration and stakeholder management

Innovation and strategic thinking

Operational excellence in laboratory and vector core management

The annual base pay (or hourly rate of compensation) for this position ranges from $131,201 to $196,802 . 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.

As AstraZeneca continues to put patients at the forefront of our mission, we are excited for our move to Kendall Square/Cambridge in 2026. Find out more information here : Kendall Square Press Release

AstraZeneca is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion and providing a workplace that is free from discrimination. AstraZeneca is committed to accommodating persons with disabilities. Such accommodation is available on request in respect of all aspects of the recruitment, assessment and selection process and may be requested by emailing AZCHumanResources@astrazeneca.com .

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Date Posted

27-Aug-2026

Closing Date

03-Sept-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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