Director, Vector Engineering and Immunogenicity Genomic Medicine

This is what you will do:

As the Associate Director of Vector Engineering at Alexion, AstraZeneca Rare Disease, Genomic Medicine Department, you will lead AAV vector research and development foucsing on therapeutic transgene plasmid design. The successful candidate will contribute to developing and steering the company's genomic medicine platform and advancing preclinical programs in a number of therapeutic areas.

This role offers an exciting opportunity to lead platform development efforts and shape the future of genomic medicine at Alexion Genomic Medicines. The successful candidate will drive innovation, foster scientific excellence, and advance the company's mission to develop transformative therapies for patients with high unmet medical needs.

You will be responsible for:

• Provide strategic vision and leadership in the research and development of optimal transgene expression cassettes to support the development of recombinant AAV vectors for gene therapy.
• Establish an industrialized plasmid engineering team that leverages both internal and external resources to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of AAV-based genomic medicines.
• Lead the implementation of digital infrastructure to maintain batch-record, track and inventory plasmid stock and bacterial cell bank.
• Work closely with therapeutic and vector engineering leads to optimize transgene cassette for high efficiency and plasmid backbone for stability in host organisms
• Oversee the construction, cloning, scale-up and validation of plasmid using state-of-the-art molecular biology techniques.
• Foster a culture of innovation, collaboration, and scientific excellence within the platform development groups.
• Mentor junior scientists and contribute to their professional development, providing guidance, support, and mentorship to ensure successful project execution and professional development.

You will need to have:

• MS/PhD in a relevant scientific field (e.g., Molecular Biology, Genomics, Biotechnology). 4+ years (for PhD) or 8+ years (for MS) of experience in plasmid design and its application in genomic medicines.
• Extensive hands-on experience with molecular cloning techniques, plasmid design and vector optimization.
• Strong knowledge of genetic regulatory elements for viral vector-mediated transgene expression, plasmid replication and stability in host organisms.
• Proficiency in bioinformatics tools and software for plasmid design and sequence analysis.
• Demonstrated success in leading and managing scientific teams in a matrixed organization, with a track record of driving platform development initiatives and effectively integrating immunogenicity assessments into therapeutic programs.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, ability to collaborate effectively with internal and external stakeholders and represent the company in scientific forums and regulatory interactions.

We would prefer for you to have:

• Extensive experience in developing genomic medicines, particularly in the context of rAAV-based genetic medicines. Preference may be given to candidates with an established track record of contributing to successful genomic medicine programs.
• Previous experience in a leadership role within the biopharmaceutical industry, with a demonstrated ability to drive platform development initiatives in a fast-paced, innovative environment.
• Established relationships within the scientific and academic community, as well as experience in fostering collaborations with external partners to advance plasmid and vector platform development.

AstraZeneca embraces diversity and equality of opportunity. We are committed to building an inclusive and diverse team representing all backgrounds, with as wide a range of perspectives as possible, and harnessing industry-leading skills. We believe that the more inclusive we are, the better our work will be. We welcome and consider applications to join our team from all qualified candidates, regardless of their characteristics. We comply with all applicable laws and regulations on non-discrimination in employment (and recruitment), as well as work authorization and employment eligibility verification requirements.