Protein Science Research Internship

About AstraZeneca

AstraZeneca is a global, science-led biopharmaceutical business and its innovative medicines are used by millions of patients worldwide! AstraZeneca has long been an advocate of student work placement training. These placements immerse students in the pharmaceutical industry, allowing the opportunity to contribute to our diverse pipeline of medicines whether in the lab or outside of it. You will feel trusted and empowered to take on new challenges, but with all the help and guidance you need to succeed. At AstraZeneca, you will engage in meaningful work within a pioneering research and development organization. This placement will help you develop essential skills, expand your knowledge, and build a network that will set you up for future success. You will be surrounded by curious, passionate, and open-minded professionals eager to learn and follow the science, fostering your growth in a truly collaborative and global team.

Introduction to role

Are you a passionate undergraduate student looking to gain hands-on experience in a cutting-edge drug discovery environment? Join AstraZeneca's Protein Science team, where innovation meets impactful science.

At AstraZeneca, we are at the forefront of modern drug discovery, leveraging advanced techniques to uncover novel therapeutics that improve lives. As part of our Protein Science group, you will contribute to projects that are central to understanding and optimizing protein expression and purification, a critical step in the drug discovery pipeline. This internship offers you the opportunity to work alongside expert scientists, develop technical skills, and gain insights into the dynamic world of pharmaceutical research.

Accountabilities

As a Protein Science Intern, you will:

• Assist in the design and execution of experiments to analyze protein expression levels under varying conditions.
• Handle and culture E. coli, with opportunities to work with eukaryotic cell culture.
• Perform small-scale protein purifications, expression level assessment and conduct quality control analysis.
• Collaborate with team members to optimize experimental protocols and troubleshoot technical challenges.
• Maintain accurate and organized records of experimental data and results.
• Present findings and progress to the team during project meetings.
• Adhere to AstraZeneca’s high standards of laboratory safety and compliance.

This role will provide you with the opportunity to contribute to impactful research while developing technical and analytical skills in a supportive and innovative environment.

Essential Skills/Experience

Required:

• Currently enrolled in a Year 2 or above undergraduate programme in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, or a related field.
• A solid understanding of E. coli handling and culturing techniques.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to maintain detailed experimental records.
• A proactive attitude with a willingness to learn and adapt.
• Excellent communication skills for effective collaboration within a multidisciplinary team.

Desirable:

• Experience with insect cell culture or other mammalian cell lines.
• Familiarity with protein purification techniques and quality control methods such as SDS-PAGE, Western blotting, or spectroscopic analysis.
• A basic understanding of experimental design and troubleshooting in a research setting.

Applications will be open until 28/02/2025. This placement will start 09/06/2025 - 29/08/2025 and you can expect to hear from us by the end of March 2025

Make a real impact and gain invaluable experience in pharmaceutical research. Apply today to kick-start your scientific career!

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, colour, national origin, sex, gender, gender expression, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment.

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.