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Engineer II, Upstream Viral Vector Product Development

Job Title: Engineer II, Upstream Viral Vector Product Development

Introduction to role

Are you ready to make a difference in gene therapy? As an Engineer II in the Upstream Process Development team, you will play a crucial role in developing adeno-associated virus (AAV) production processes. Collaborate with a multidisciplinary team to design, optimize, scale up, and transfer upstream processes for viral vector production. Your work will directly impact the advancement of gene therapy applications.

Accountabilities

• Support Upstream Development including the design and execution of laboratory experiments to develop and optimize upstream processes for AAV production, including cell culture, transfection, production, and harvest/lysis.
• Troubleshoot process-related challenges and implement corrective actions to optimize production yields and maintain product quality.
• Perform routine Upstream laboratory tasks such as shake flask and bioreactor sampling and cell maintenance.
• Manage and maintain lab equipment and supplies, ensuring a safe and efficient work environment. This includes regular lab cleaning, equipment maintenance, and supply procurement.
• Analyze and interpret experimental data, utilizing statistical tools to drive scientific decision-making and process improvements.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams including Downstream, Process Analytics, and Research.
• Support the transfer of upstream processes to cGMP manufacturing.
• Document experiments and results clearly and accurately in production files and electronic laboratory notebooks; Summarize and present results to the broader team.
• Support the drafting of process development reports, process descriptions, and tech transfer documents.

Essential Skills/Experience

• BS or MS degree in Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology, or a related field
• Minimum of 2+ years of relevant experience in the biotech industry
• Hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture and aseptic technique
• High level of proficiency in MS Office software
• The duties of this role are generally conducted in a lab environment. As is typical of a lab-based role, employees must be able, with or without an accommodation to: lift/carry 15/30 pounds unassisted/assisted; work comfortably in a controlled environment with and around biological, infectious, and hazardous materials; gown/degown PPE; use a computer; engage in communications via phone, video, and electronic messaging; engage in problem solving and non-linear thought, analysis, and dialogue; collaborate with others; maintain general availability during standard business hours.

Desirable Skills/Experience

• Experience with bioreactor set up and operation
• Experience with AAV or other viral vectors and transient transfection
• Experience with statistical analysis and design of experiment (DOE)

At AstraZeneca, we thrive on tackling the unknowns. Our dynamic environment is filled with opportunities to learn and grow. We embrace change and take calculated risks to bring new medicines to patients. Our collaborative approach ensures that every challenge is met with resilience and innovation. Here, your work will be valued and visible across all therapy areas.

Ready to join us on this exciting journey? Apply now!

The annual base salary for this position ranges from $86,000 to $129,000. 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

02-Apr-2025

Closing Date

01-Jun-2025Alexion is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity and Affirmative Action employer. We are committed to fostering a culture of belonging where every single person can belong because of their uniqueness. The Company will not make decisions about employment, training, compensation, promotion, and other terms and conditions of employment based on race, color, religion, creed or lack thereof, sex, sexual orientation, age, ancestry, national origin, ethnicity, citizenship status, marital status, pregnancy, (including childbirth, breastfeeding, or related medical conditions), parental status (including adoption or surrogacy), military status, protected veteran status, disability, medical condition, gender identity or expression, genetic information, mental illness or other characteristics protected by law. Alexion provides reasonable accommodations to meet the needs of candidates and employees. To begin an interactive dialogue with Alexion regarding an accommodation, please contact accommodations@Alexion.com. Alexion participates in E-Verify.
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Average salary estimate

$107500 / YEARLY (est.)
min
max
$86000K
$129000K

If an employer mentions a salary or salary range on their job, we display it as an "Employer Estimate". If a job has no salary data, Rise displays an estimate if available.

What You Should Know About Engineer II, Upstream Viral Vector Product Development, AstraZeneca

At AstraZeneca, we are on a mission to revolutionize gene therapy, and we're seeking an enthusiastic Engineer II for our Upstream Viral Vector Product Development team in Cambridge, MA. In this role, you will be at the forefront of developing cutting-edge adeno-associated virus (AAV) production processes that will bring transformative therapies to patients. Your day-to-day will involve designing and executing laboratory experiments, optimizing processes for viral vector production, and collaborating closely with a fantastic multidisciplinary team. You'll engage in troubleshooting challenges to enhance production yields while ensuring the highest quality standards are met. Regular laboratory tasks like shake flask sampling and bioreactor operation will be part of your adventure, so hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture and aseptic techniques is essential. Moreover, you'll play a key role in maintaining lab equipment and supplies, ensuring a safe, efficient working environment. With your analytical skills, you’ll dive deep into experimental data to drive process improvement and support the seamless transfer of upstream processes to cGMP manufacturing. At AstraZeneca, every day brings new challenges that you'll meet with creativity and resilience. If you have a passion for biotechnology and a drive to make a significant impact, we want to hear from you. Get ready to join us in this exciting journey toward advancing gene therapy applications!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Engineer II, Upstream Viral Vector Product Development Role at AstraZeneca
What responsibilities does the Engineer II, Upstream Viral Vector Product Development at AstraZeneca have?

The Engineer II in Upstream Viral Vector Product Development at AstraZeneca is responsible for supporting the design and execution of laboratory experiments aimed at optimizing upstream processes for AAV production. This includes troubleshooting processing challenges, performing routine lab tasks, and collaborating with cross-functional teams to ensure efficient transfer of processes to cGMP manufacturing.

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What qualifications are required for the Engineer II position at AstraZeneca?

Applicants for the Engineer II, Upstream Viral Vector Product Development role at AstraZeneca should have a BS or MS degree in Biomedical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Biotechnology, or a related field, along with a minimum of 2+ years of relevant experience in the biotech industry. Hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture and aseptic techniques is essential.

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What skills are desirable for the Engineer II role at AstraZeneca?

Desired skills for the Engineer II in Upstream Viral Vector Product Development at AstraZeneca include experience with bioreactor setup and operation, working with AAV or other viral vectors, and proficiency in statistical analysis and design of experiments (DOE). These skills help in optimizing production processes and enhancing productivity.

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What kind of team will the Engineer II work with at AstraZeneca?

The Engineer II, Upstream Viral Vector Product Development at AstraZeneca will collaborate with a multidisciplinary team that includes members from Downstream, Process Analytics, and Research teams. This collaborative approach is vital for efficiently advancing the development of gene therapies.

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How does AstraZeneca support the growth of its employees in roles like Engineer II?

AstraZeneca encourages professional growth by providing a dynamic environment filled with learning opportunities. As an Engineer II, you'll have access to ongoing training, chances to learn from industry-leading professionals, and the ability to contribute to groundbreaking projects that can influence the future of medicine.

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Common Interview Questions for Engineer II, Upstream Viral Vector Product Development
Can you describe your experience with mammalian cell culture?

When answering this question, provide specific examples of your hands-on experience with mammalian cell culture, including the types of cells you've worked with, techniques you've employed, and any challenges you've faced. Highlight how your experience directly applies to the Engineer II role at AstraZeneca.

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How do you approach troubleshooting process-related challenges in the lab?

Detail a systematic approach when discussing troubleshooting; mention observation, data analysis, and hypothesis testing. Provide an example from your past experience where your problem-solving skills led to successful resolution of a lab issue. Emphasize its relevance to the responsibilities of an Engineer II at AstraZeneca.

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What experience do you have with statistical analysis in experimental design?

Discuss your proficiency with statistical tools and methodologies you have applied in previous roles. Highlight any specific experiments where you applied design of experiments (DOE) techniques and how that led to successful outcomes. Connect this to the analysis aspect of the Engineer II role.

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Describe a time when you collaborated with cross-functional teams.

Share a specific instance that showcases your collaborative skills, focusing on how you communicated effectively with different departments. Explain the outcome of the collaboration and what you learned, which demonstrates teamwork's importance in the Engineer II position at AstraZeneca.

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How do you prioritize safety in a laboratory environment?

Explain your understanding of lab safety protocols and provide examples of how you've adhered to and promoted safety measures. Discuss the importance of safety in maintaining an efficient lab environment, tying it back to AstraZeneca's commitment to a safe workplace.

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What is your experience with AAV production processes?

Share any experiences specifically related to AAV production, detailing the processes you've worked on. Highlight any role you played in optimizing these processes or key learnings you gained from these experiences, especially in the context of the Engineer II responsibilities at AstraZeneca.

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How do you handle data documentation and reporting?

Discuss your approach to documenting and reporting experimental data. Mention your familiarity with electronic laboratory notebooks and the importance of accurate record-keeping, describing how these practices relate to the Engineer II position.

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Can you give an example of a successful project you've led or contributed to?

Describe a specific project where you played a crucial role. Focus on your contributions and the positive impact it had on the project’s outcome. Highlighting your success will demonstrate your capability as an Engineer II at AstraZeneca.

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How do you stay updated with developments in biotechnology?

Talk about the resources you utilize, such as webinars, industry journals, and professional associations. Emphasize your proactive approach to continuous learning, and explain how this knowledge would benefit your role as an Engineer II in upstream product development.

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Why do you want to work as an Engineer II at AstraZeneca?

Express your enthusiasm for the company’s mission and values, particularly related to gene therapy. Discuss how your skills and aspirations align with AstraZeneca’s goals, emphasizing your commitment to contributing positively as an Engineer II.

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