Senior Scientist – In Vivo Pharmacology, Oncology R&D

Senior Scientist – In Vivo Pharmacology, Oncology R&D

Location: Gaithersburg, MD 

About this Opportunity 

Are you ready to make a difference in the world of Oncology? We are seeking a pharmacology Senior Scientist within the Oncology Targeted Delivery (OTD) group to serve as an in vivo lead supporting both preclinical and clinical ADC (antibody drug conjugate) programs. This role will work with colleagues to generate robust datasets directly impacting oncology ADC drug discovery and pipeline development.  

Key Duties and Responsibilities 

Working within the Early Oncology In Vivo Pharmacology Team, you will design, run and analyze in vivo experiments to assess the function of our candidate oncology drugs and dissect the mechanism of action of novel cancer therapeutics. You will be expected to collaborate with cross-functional teams including representatives from biosciences, bioanalysis, pharmacokinetics, translational medicine, clinical, and safety to help understand the translatability of in vivo research to the clinic. You will work collaboratively with project leaders to ensure the timely generation, and dissemination of critical program data, and contribute to scientific publication goals. As a highly organized, self-motivated individual with a strong background in laboratory science you will stay up to date with relevant technical and intellectual scientific expertise in tumor biology, pharmacology and cancer modeling and have a genuine passion for this field of research. 

Essential Skills/Experience: 

• PhD with 2+ years or a BS/MS with 5+ years of relevant research experience in biology, pharmacology, or a related scientific discipline is required. 

• Significant hands-on experience developing and working with complex in vivo models, such as syngeneic, cell line derived xenograft, patient derived xenograft (PDX), and orthotopic/humanized mouse models.

• Excellent at executing in vivo pharmacology studies in mouse tumor models, including dose-finding tolerability studies, PK/PD and efficacy studies. 

• Excellent at various routes of dosing administration, including intravenous (IV), subcutaneous (SC), intraperitoneal (IP), and oral gavage (PO) 

• Experience with a range of in vitro skills, e.g. cell culture (adherent cells and suspension cells), molecular biology, immunoblotting, flow cytometry and ELISA. 

• Ability to work independently, critically analyze and report data, and interpret experimental findings within the broader landscape of drug discovery. 

• Highly developed problem solving and risk management skills, and attention to detail. 

• Strong interpersonal, collaborative and team building skills. 

• In-depth knowledge of ADCs and/or oncology disease area biology.

• Experience in preparing and communicating project data packages for internal milestone transitions and IND filings which exemplify a clear communication style. 

• Ability to act as an external ambassador and to influence external organizations to enhance the image and reputation of AstraZeneca. 

About AstraZeneca 

At AstraZeneca, we are on a mission to eliminate cancer as a cause of death. We are a science-based, leading and decisive Oncology enterprise united in our vision. With one of the broadest and deepest Oncology pipelines in the industry, there are many opportunities to work with new and novel drugs and help discover what's next. We foster a mindset of courage, where everyone is empowered to step up, innovate and work at pace. We lead through true collaboration, building collective wisdom by giving everyone a chance to input. Our pipeline is a testament to our growth, both now and in the future. 

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 follow all applicable laws and regulations on non-discrimination in employment (and recruitment), as well as work authorization and employment eligibility verification requirements. 

About Our Gaithersburg Oncology Hub 

Our Gaithersburg, Maryland facility creates life-changing medicines for people around the world. This campus employs approximately 5000 experts in our field and is only a short drive from Washington, DC. This modern and vibrant scientific campus is an Oncology R&D hub in the US. Here, we play host to some of the most cutting-edge technology and lab spaces, all designed to inspire collaboration and cross-functional science. We believe employees benefit from being challenged and inspired at work. We are dedicated to creating a culture of inclusion and collaboration. 

The Gaithersburg site offers a variety of amenities to help boost productivity and help keep our employees happy and healthy. This includes a fitness center, employee healthcare clinic, electric vehicle charging stations, dry cleaning, full-service cafeteria and copy center. This is where you’ll find newly designed, activity-based workspaces to suit a variety of working styles while increasing collaboration between teams. 

Ready to make a meaningful difference? Apply now and join us in our mission to eliminate cancer as a cause of death! 

The annual base pay for this position ranges from $116,284 to $174,426. 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.

Date Posted

09-Mar-2026

Closing Date

29-Mar-2026Our 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.