In Vivo Science Lead

In Vivo Science Lead – Shape the Future of Science at AstraZeneca, Cambridge

Are you ready to accelerate your impact in the world of biomedical research? Step into a pivotal role within the Animal Sciences & Technologies (AST) Department at AstraZeneca in Cambridge—a vibrant centre where ground-breaking discovery thrives, and innovation is at the very heart of everything we do!

As an In Vivo Science Lead, you will be instrumental in advancing our mission: supporting groundbreaking science that propels new medicines from concept to clinic. Join a collaborative community of dedicated scientists who work at the forefront of efficacy and safety evaluation, delivering expert guidance to our BioPharmaceuticals and Oncology R&D Units.

We are searching for an experienced and visionary In Vivo Science Lead, recognised as an authority in their field and leading scientific strategy and resource planning to enable high-quality, timely in vivo delivery for Therapy area (TA) pipelines. You will drive optimisation of In Vivo model and study designs, collaborating with internal and external partners to ensure scientific excellence. You will provide strategic advice to TA and AST Leaders, influencing cross-site resource models, and acting as a mentor to staff to develop scientific capability across the organisation. This role offers the opportunity to ensure that our world-class in vivo work in the UK sets the standard for excellence, compassion, and scientific leadership.

Seize this chance to become part of a team where your expertise is valued, your passion is fuelled, and your career can soar to new heights. Embark on a journey where your leadership shapes the future of research—if you are inspired by the possibilities, read on to discover what this role involves.

About AstraZeneca

AstraZeneca is a global, science-led, patient-focused biopharmaceutical company that focuses on the discovery, development and commercialisation of prescription medicines for some of the world’s most serious diseases. But we’re more than one of the world’s leading pharmaceutical companies. We are on a journey to bring life-saving medicines to patients. Our role in contributing to decreasing mortality rates globally is clear – shaping the future by spotting a scientifically-led commercial opportunity and acting now to operationalise and scale it.

Typical Accountabilities:

• 1st point of contact for in vivo study commissioning across a range of study types including efficacy, safety and/or platform development
• Partners with Head of AST and TA Leads to develop strategic resourcing approaches that support pipeline delivery.
• Leads forecasting of resource demand needs (FTE, skills, delivery of models) across TA portfolio, ensuring effective planning in the Demand, Use, Risk (DUR) process for their business partners.
• Advises AST UK Leadership Team on optimised resource planning across the for mid to long term, informing needs for financial cycles
• Supports acceleration of strategic pipeline deliverables through external partnerships and internal coordination.
• Provides expert input into in vivo model design and scientific study planning across AST and TA teams.
• Attend and represent as scientific subject matter expert to present to senior leaders across internal groups for forum/reviews for scientific debate, or in response to emerging methods or industry policies
• Represents AST in scientific forums internally and externally, building scientific credibility and sharing exemplary practice.
• Collaborates with peers in AST, across other departments and across geographies to ensure continuous improvement in scientific quality and capability.
• Ability to support welfare and compliance activities for external partnerships e.g. review external study protocols for input to methodology development or delivery, ensuring keeping up to date with current leading practice.
• Mentors and develops scientific staff, fostering expertise in study design and model selection.
• Contributes to AST UK scorecard and organisation-wide scientific initiatives.

Essential Criteria:

• Advanced degree or equivalent experience (e.g. MSc, PhD, or equivalent) in a relevant biological or biomedical science subject area.
• Proven track record in matrix and cross-functional leadership
• Significant experience in in vivo model design, application, and scientific delivery.
• Demonstrated critical thinking in scientific planning and resourcing.
• Proven ability to influence senior partners and lead cross-functional initiatives.
• Strong understanding of resource modelling and delivery optimisation in a scientific environment.
• Effective mentoring and coaching experience with scientific staff.
• In depth knowledge of ASPA and in vivo regulatory standards.
• Track record of recent contribution to publications, presentations, or scientific networks, including leadership or active member eg working groups.

Desirable Criteria:

• Experience in leading collaborations or partnerships.
• Holder of UK Home Office Personal Licence (PIL) and Project Licence (PPL).
• Familiarity with digital platforms for resource forecasting and scientific planning.
• Experience contributing to or leading strategy development in a multi-disciplinary R&D setting.

When we put unexpected teams in the same room, we ignite 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.

At AstraZeneca, you'll be part of a dedicated team that powers our rapidly growing enterprise. We leverage exciting new technology and digital innovations to accelerate our evolution. With an entrepreneurial spirit, we apply creativity to every task, taking smart risks to turn ideas into reality. Our dynamic environment fosters collaboration among bright minds who support each other while pushing boundaries. Here, you'll find countless opportunities to build an unrivalled reputation as you take your career to new heights.

Ready to make a difference? Apply now and be part of our journey to transform lives through science!

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.

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 authorisation and employment eligibility verification requirements.