Senior Associate, Quality Control Microbiology

At AstraZeneca's Oncology R&D division, we follow the science to explore and innovate. We are working towards treating, preventing, modifying, and even curing some of the world's most complex diseases.

Here we have the potential to grow our pipeline and positively impact the lives of billions of patients around the world.

We are committed to making a difference and have built our business around our passion for science. Now we are fusing data and technology with the latest scientific innovations to achieve the next wave of breakthroughs.

Increase your chances of an interview by reading the following overview of this role before making an application.

Position Summary

We are seeking an individual with a cell therapy quality control background to join our Quality team. You will contribute to the advancement of our product pipeline by performing environmental monitoring, lot release testing, and other assigned tasks.

You will also be expected to independently organize, analyze results, and present conclusions. You will ensure that the QC Microbiology Laboratory is operating as expected.

Responsibilities

• Conduct routine and non-routine microbiological tests, including but not limited to environmental monitoring, sterility testing by BACT and compendial, bioburden testing, endotoxin testing, and microbial identification, routine environmental monitoring (EM) in GMP manufacturing areas, Aseptic gowning, growth promotion tests, and Mycoplasma Testing (qPCR method MycoSEQ).
• Participate in the development, validation, and implementation of new microbiological methods, Environmental Monitoring Performance Qualification (EMPQ).
• Ensure the QC microbiology laboratory is well-maintained, including equipment calibration, validation, and maintenance.

Manage laboratory supplies and inventory.

Analyze microbiological data, ensuring accuracy and compliance with established standards. Maintain detailed and accurate records of all testing and results.

Initiate and participate in EM excursion and out of specification (OOS) investigations.

• Author or review QC Micro test results and Standard Operating Procedures (SOP).
• Conduct investigations into microbiological out-of-specification results, deviations, and other quality issues. Develop and implement corrective and preventive actions (CAPAs).
• Work with cross-functional teams, including Manufacturing, Quality Assurance, and R&D, to support ongoing projects and ensure quality standards are met.
• Perform other duties as requested by supervisor / manager to support the quality team.

Education and Experience

• 5+ Years with High School; 2+ Years with BS / BA; 1+ Years with MS / MA specific to microbial contamination and controls.
• Demonstrated knowledge of regulatory guidance and industry best practices.
• Strong knowledge in several of the following areas of competency : aseptic processing, clean room and contamination control, environmental monitoring microbiological methods, and cleaning validation.
• Knowledge of Microbiology principles, theories, concepts, and laboratory methodologies.
• Must demonstrate effective organizational skills and ability to manage multiple projects.
• Must have demonstrated experience analyzing technical results and summarizing these results in technical reports.
• Knowledge of aseptic manufacturing and EM processes.

The anticipated salary range for candidates who will work in Santa Monica, CA is $70,000 - $82,000. The final salary offered to a successful candidate will be dependent on several factors that may include but are not limited to the type and length of experience within the job type and length of experience within the industry, education, etc.

Benefits

• Short-term incentive bonus opportunity.
• Equity-based long-term incentive program.
• 401(k) plan.
• Paid vacation and holidays; paid leaves.
• Health benefits including medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage.

DE&I Statement

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.

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