Post Doc Position Available: Exploiting the full potential of Next Generation Sequencing: novel biomarker and target selection from long non-coding RNA

Reference Number – POSTDOC038

AstraZeneca is committed to pushing new boundaries in the research and development of Oncology therapy and delivering pharmaceuticals to broaden the therapeutic options available to cancer patients, making a meaningful difference in the lives of patients. We have spearheaded many scientific breakthroughs to build a solid portfolio of cancer drugs, including IRESSA™, a forerunner in the field of targeted therapies, and Caprelsa™, a targeted therapy for medullary thyroid cancer. With a world-leading set of capabilities and expertise, and a network of oncology R&D sites that spans the globe, we are in a strong position to identify and develop new approaches based on our in-depth understanding of tumour biology.

A key component in advancing the culture of AstraZeneca Oncology is our collaboration with academia, governments, scientific institutions, patient organisations, and pioneering alliances with other pharmaceutical companies. For example, we recognise the importance of flexible, transparent interactions and open engagement in relation to early data and clinical trial design. Our growing global network of strategic alliances continues to drive important advances in Oncology R&D, with regular cross-alliance symposia and science days supporting the sharing of knowledge and innovation.At AstraZeneca, we know just how fast-paced the evolving Oncology area is. By embracing cutting-edge pharmaceutical science and taking a dynamic approach to oncology drug research and development, we are making exciting progress and overcoming intellectual and technical challenges to deliver the cancer drugs of tomorrow. We have shifted our focus from purely target-based drug discovery to an integrated patient-based approach, informed by pathway biology together with strategic investments in critical capabilities., This new focus is driving us to discover new oncology medicines that will make a meaningful difference

Position title:
Exploiting the full potential of Next Generation Sequencing: novel biomarker and target selection from long non-coding RNA

Location:
Oncology iMED, Alderley Park, Cheshire, UK.
Candidate Focus & Challenge:
• Generate novel and testable lncRNA biomarker hypotheses across selected drug candidates in the AZ oncology portfolio through development and application of innovative bioinforrnatics approaches
• Functionally characterise and test candidate biomarkers using bioinformatics and lab-based validation techniques.
• Challenge and influence current personalised healthcare strategies across the AZ oncology portfolio
• Interface with scientists from across many disciplines while at the same time being able to work independently.
• Communicate results both within AstraZeneca via global working groups and externally at meetings and through publications in high impact journals
• Work collaboratively with other experts internally within Bioinformatics and Molecular profiling groups

Candidate Knowledge, Skills & Experience:
• We are seeking a post-doc with primarily bioinformatics expertise, who also has a keen interest in applying lab-based approaches to generate and test novel lncRNA cancer biomarker hypotheses
• Essential
o PhD level in a computational biology, bioinformatics or equivalent biology subject
o Experience of applying bioinformatics approaches to cancer datasets.
o Familiarity with Unix/Linux operating systems.
o Highly competent in one or more of Perl, Python, Ruby, Java, C/C++, R programming languages.
o Expertise in the application, analysis and interpretation of Next Generation Sequencing data particularly RNA-Seq.
o Strong interpersonal, organizational and communication skills.
o Proven ability to independently design and execute incisive experiments and interpret results.
o Good track record of publishing scientific research.

• Desirable
o Relevant cell biology skills in siRNA transfection and GOF/LOF systems to elucidate functional properties of newly identifed lncRNA.
o Experience of gene expression platforms (rt-qPCR) and in situ hybridisation.
o Disease area and/or domain knowledge in Biological Sciences or similar
o Interdisciplinary background in bioinformatics/computational biology and cancer genomics .
o Experience in applying systems biology approaches to large data sets.
Additional• Strong passion and commitment to drug discovery and delivering therapies for patients.
• Evidence of innovative approach to working and driving ideas through publication.
• A strong scientific track record, as evidenced by published or accepted papers in well recognized peer-reviewed journals, oral and/or poster presentations at scientific meetings.
• Ability to work well within a group/team environment.
A PhD in one or more of the following areas:
• Cell Biologist with experience working with primary cells and tumour cell cultures
• Experience in 3D cell culture and fluorescence imaging is desirable.
• Oncology knowledge with understanding of cellular signalling and tumour biology.
• Strong interpersonal, organizational and communication skills.
• Proven ability to independently design and execute incisive experiments and interpret results.
This position is initially a 2 year fixed term contract.

Due to the high volume of Post Doctoral positions being advertised globally within AZ, we require you to state on your covering letter any other positions within the business globally which you have recently applied for quoting the appropriate reference number.

This posting will close on Monday 26th August.