Job Title: Senior Scientist– Translational Genomics,Translational Medicine
Location: Cambridge, UK
Introduction to the role:
We are seeking aSenior Scientistto join ourTranslational Genomicsteam(Cambridge, U.K.)on afixed termbasis.The successful candidate would be joininga world classcentrefordiscoveryand development of innovative cancer medicines. Based at the heart of the Cambridge UK biomedical research community you will play a keyrole in thedelivery of datautilizingcutting edgegenomics techniques.You will deliver high qualitybiomarkerdata from human clinical samples andhave the opportunity toimpactanexciting andindustry-leading portfolio of programs frominceptionthrough tolife cycle management.
About the role:
TheTranslationalMedicineGenomics Labfocuses on theexploratoryanalysis of clinical samples using the best available solutions to maximize value for oncology projects.Our work includes the analysis of fixed and frozen tissues, liquid biopsymaterial, and single cell and spatial genomics.We provide support via a mix of in-house lab analyses, external providers, and collaborators. We generate data to help understand key cancer pathway alterations, guide drug combinations, provide disease linkage data to guideindicationselection and targeted patient populations andunderstandthe dynamics of responseandresistance to therapies.
This role willhavea strong focus on hands-on laboratory work.You willbe responsible fortheplanning, design,and execution ofhigh-quality experimental workanddocumenting, interpreting,and communicating results toappropriate stakeholdersand partners. You willbe able towork independently butalso asakey member ofour globalteamof genomics anddata scienceexperts.
Major Responsibilities and Accountabilities:
Work with UK and Global genomics colleagues, Project Managers andTranslationalMedicine Leads (TMLs)to understand thegenomic biomarker needsof clinical studiesPlan, prioritise,and execute work to deliver tobiomarkerplansexploiting the mostappropriate technologies/assaysto deliver high quality data on time and to budgetWork with Translational, Clinical,Biosamplescolleagues, and CRO partners, to access the right samples at the right timeLead from the bench to generate data in a modern genomics lab utilising Automation, DNA/RNA extraction,library preparation,NGS,single cell,and other platformsUtilise a sample management system and other software and communication tools to track samples,monitorprogress, and record dataWorkwith team members and aligned production informatics and bioinformatics experts to support data analysis/QC,interpretationand communication back toTML,project team and other stakeholdersContribute to maintenance and development ofour internal genomics capabilitiesand development & implementation of new genomic/epigenomic assays or related technologiesSupport colleagues to train in existing and new SOPsAs required - conceptualize, develop, and execute evaluations ofmethods,platforms, and emerging technologieswhich mayaddressareas of unmet need forprogrammesProvide technical advice and genomic biomarker consultation to internal and external partnersRecord and communicate your data accurately,clearlyand conciselyMaintainappropriate documentation, be compliant with all internal and external policies and legal requirementsaround use of clinical samples, consent, and privacyEssential skills and experience:
Advanced degreein a relevant discipline(preferablyPhDor equivalent)andat least4 years post-doctoral experience (or equivalent)utilising advanced molecular biology techniques (academic or industrial setting); Recent/current experiencegreatlypreferred
Experience of cancer genomics and analysis ofoncologyclinical specimens
Strongcurrentlaboratory and analytical skills
Evidence of effective problem-solving, methoddevelopmentand optimisation
Ability to understand and work to detailed SOPsand to authorand troubleshootnew SOPs
Excellentoral and written communication skills, able to document work clearly, concisely, and understand and describe its importance to others
Good organisational and planning skills, ability to manage a portfolio of work, prioritize,and deliver to agreed time and quality
Good interpersonal skills – able to work effectively with colleagues/collaborators from diverse backgrounds, levels of seniority,and territories
Meticulous attention to detail, ability to document results to a high standard
Desirable skills and experience:
Although training will be given whererequired, experience in the following areas would be a distinct advantage:
Peer-reviewed publications in thecancer biology/cancergenomicsfield
Working in a commercial/industrial environment
Working withDNA/RNA fromhuman clinical materials such as formalin fixed paraffin-embedded tissues, frozen tissues, plasma(circulatingcell-free DNA/cfDNA).
Hands-on laboratory experience preparingDNA/RNAlibraries, targeted NGS,and running NGSplatforms
Work in single cellgenomics and/or spatial genomics (e.g.10x, Parse,GeoMxDSP)
Tissue culture, handling and purification of cells from clinical samples, e.g. PBMCs
Tissue dissociation for downstream single cell work
Developing and running assays(e.g.mutation/copy number)using digital PCR
Conductingworkto Good Clinical Practice (GCP)within aregulatory/qualityframework (e.g. ISO15189-, CAP-, CLIA-accredited lab environment).
Assaydevelopment for NGS platforms
Working with laboratory automation(particularlyBiomekliquid handling systems), method development/optimisation
Analysis and interpretationof NGS datafrom clinical specimens
Experience in the biotech/pharmaceutical industry and of the drug development process
When we put unexpected teams in the same room, we unleash ambitious thinking with the power to encourage life‑changing medicines. In‑person working helps us connect, work at pace and challenge perceptions. We work, on average, a minimum of three days per week from the office, while balancing individual flexibility.
Why AstraZeneca?
We are committed to making a difference and have built our business around our passion for science. Were fusing data and technology with the latest scientific innovations to achieve the next wave of breakthroughs. Our curiosity and courage drive us to do things that havent been done before—empowered to step up, make bold decisions, and learn from successes and failures.
Ready to make a significant impact? Apply now and join us on this exciting journey!
Date Posted
22-Jan-2026Closing Date
04-Feb-2026Our mission is to build an inclusive and equitable environment. We want people to feel they belong at AstraZeneca and Alexion, starting with our recruitment process. We welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of characteristics. We offer reasonable adjustments/accommodations to help all candidates to perform at their best. If you have a need for any adjustments/accommodations, please complete the section in the application form.