Director – Purification Process Sciences

At AstraZeneca, we win through the science, it is at the heart of our every success. Every decision is rooted in the limitless possibilities of what science can do. We push the boundaries of science to deliver life-changing medicines. This purpose underpins everything we do. It gives us a reason to come to work every day. It reminds us why we exist as a company. It helps us deliver benefits to patients and build new value for shareholders. It also sets the context for our employees’ activities and the roles of our teams, partners, and other collaborators. AstraZeneca has a dynamic environment that fosters collaboration and innovation. We attract top minds, and we nurture and build top talent

Introduction to role:

Are you ready to lead a team that pushes the boundaries of science? Join us as Director, Purification Process Sciences in Gaithersburg, MD, where your scientific expertise can transform patients' lives. At AstraZeneca, we are passionate about discovery and innovation, with a robust pipeline to prove it. As a group leader, you'll provide scientific, operational, and strategic leadership within the Purification Process Sciences (PPS) group at AstraZeneca's Biopharmaceutical Development organization. We foster collaboration and attract top talent, nurturing their growth in a dynamic environment.

Accountabilities:

In this pivotal role, you'll set direction and objectives for a team of scientists focused on purification process development. You'll design, optimize, and characterize downstream processes for manufacturing protein therapeutics across all development stages. Innovate clinical and commercial manufacturing approaches for biopharmaceuticals and drive continuous platform improvements. Represent BPD in regulatory communications and AZ senior leadership meetings, while leading purification development for diverse drug candidates from clinical development through registration. Coordinate with cross-functional teams to meet project timelines and company goals. Prepare regulatory documents and address health authority queries with a strong understanding of GMP and Quality issues. Supervise downstream development activities for multiple projects, ensuring delivery within a matrixed organization. Author and review key documents for process development strategies. Advance AZ’s scientific approaches through industry participation and publications. Mentor team members, equipping them with skills to contribute to AZ's mission.

Essential Skills/Experience:

• Ph.D. or equivalent in chemistry/biochemistry, chemical/biochemical engineering, or related discipline, with 11+ years of relevant experience with PhD (15+ years with BS/MS).

• Established expertise in a biopharmaceutical company in purification process development and tech transfer for biological products.

• Excellent oral and written communication skills.

• Proven ability to work effectively in cross-functional matrix organization, demonstrating a positive attitude and strong influencing skills.

• Prior supervisory experience is required (line management and/or matrix management). Experience as an effective leader and coach for a diverse team of staff members.

• Demonstrated experience progressing biopharmaceutical products to licensure.

• Good working knowledge of drug development, including protein chemistry, protein purification, process design, with demonstrated independence and problem-solving capability.

• Deep understanding of all downstream unit operations, with a proven track record of innovation and technical excellence.

Desirable Skills/Experience:

• Recognized as a scientific thought leader in developing purification processes for complex, non-mAb molecules and new modalities.

• Demonstrated organizational and strategic leadership in establishing technical guidelines and business processes, as well as steering cross-organizational alignment within and outside of biologics CMC development.

• Experience in developing late-stage strategies, with good understanding of Regulatory guidance and Quality systems.

• Fundamental understanding of bioprocess design and mechanistic modeling for chromatographic and/or membrane processes.

• Experience in downstream process intensification, high-throughput and automation technologies, database and digitalization tools.

When we put unexpected teams in the same room, we unleash bold thinking with the power to inspire life-changing medicines. In-person working gives us the platform we need to connect, work at pace and challenge perceptions. That's why we work, on average, a minimum of three days per week from the office. But that doesn't mean we're not flexible. We balance the expectation of being in the office while respecting individual flexibility. Join us in our unique and ambitious world.

The annual base pay (or hourly rate of compensation) for this position ranges from $171,426 to $257,140. Hourly and salaried non-exempt employees will also be paid overtime pay when working qualifying overtime hours. Base pay offered may vary depending on multiple individualized factors, including market location, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. In addition, our positions offer a short-term incentive bonus opportunity; eligibility to participate in our equity-based long-term incentive program (salaried roles), to receive a retirement contribution (hourly roles), and commission payment eligibility (sales roles). Benefits offered included a qualified retirement program [401(k) plan]; paid vacation and holidays; paid leaves; and, health benefits including medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision coverage in accordance with the terms and conditions of the applicable plans. Additional details of participation in these benefit plans will be provided if an employee receives an offer of employment. If hired, employee will be in an “at-will position” and the Company reserves the right to modify base pay (as well as any other discretionary payment or compensation program) at any time, including for reasons related to individual performance, Company or individual department/team performance, and market factors.  

At AstraZeneca, we are driven by curiosity and courage to explore the unknown. Our commitment to science empowers us to tackle some of the world's most complex diseases. By fusing data and technology with scientific innovation, we aim to achieve breakthroughs that redefine healthcare. Our inclusive environment encourages collaboration across academia, biotechs, and industry to create swift impacts on disease. With opportunities for lifelong learning and career development, we are dedicated to improving patient access to healthcare globally.

Ready to make a difference? Apply now to join our team!

Date Posted

12-May-2025

Closing Date

Our 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.