Director/Associate Director - R&D Discovery Vector Engineering
About this role
By engineering immune cells directly within the patient’s body, we aim to eliminate the barriers of traditional cell therapies. We are building an integrated discovery-to-development engine that connects vector innovation with translational impact. Join us to shape platform strategy, deliver differentiated candidates, and help patients faster.
As a proud new member of the AstraZeneca group, Esobiotec continues to set new standards in pioneering biotechnological research. With a shared vision to transform the future of medicine, our partnership uses AstraZeneca’s global reach and rich heritage in scientific innovation, amplifying Esobiotec’s unique culture of creativity and breakthrough advances in cell-based therapies and immunology. At Esobiotec, now backed by the resources and expertise of one of the world’s leading biopharmaceutical companies, you’ll find a dynamic, collaborative environment where scientific passion drives real-world impact. Be part of a team where your work will contribute to shaping the next generation of life-changing treatments and help us push the boundaries of science to improve patients’ lives worldwide.
We are seeking a Director/Associate Director to lead discovery and engineering of novel lentiviral vectors (LVV) from concept through preclinical candidate selection. You will refine our discovery strategy, build scalable screening platforms, and integrate developability and CMC thinking from the start. This role is highly cross-functional and product-focused, partnering closely with biological engineering, CAR/TCR discovery, nonclinical, safety, clinical, process development, analytics, and computational teams. Title will be commensurate with experience and demonstrated scope.
Requirements
- : 8+ years (Associate Director) or 12+ years (Director) in gene therapy R&D focused on viral vector engineering, preferably LVV.
- Technical Track Record
- : Demonstrated success designing, building, and optimizing viral vectors; LVV expertise strongly preferred (AAV or related systems a plus).
- Product Approach
- : Clear history of linking vector design to therapeutic product needs, clinical requirements, and manufacturability.
- CMC Collaboration
- : Proven partnership with process development/CMC across upstream/downstream production, release testing, and scalability.
- Leadership
- : Experience leading small-to-medium discovery teams and matrixed initiatives to timely, high-quality outcomes.
- Innovation & IP
- : Evidence of innovation via publications, patents, or internal inventions; facility with
- FTO
- analyses and IP strategy.
- Data Fluency
- : Proficiency with statistical design and analysis, data visualization, and collaboration with computational teams, including
- DoE
- and high-throughput screening.
- Attributes
- :
- Product-focused, decisive, rigorous
- ; thrives in ambiguity while maintaining quality, compliance, and speed.
- AstraZeneca offers an environment where learning from diverse teams is encouraged. We blend academia with industry expertise to foster growth and build meaningful careers. Our commitment to science-driven approaches ensures we remain at the forefront of medical advancements. With a focus on collaboration and resilience, we work together towards transformative solutions for patients.
- So, what is next:
- Ready to make an impact? Apply now to join our mission-driven team !
- Welcome with your application in English. Please apply as soon as possible since we are continously reviewing candidates.
- To find out more:
- Esobiotech:
- https://www.esobiotec.com/
- AstraZeneca:
- https://www.astrazeneca.com/
- Follow us on LinkedIn:
- Esobiotec
- and
- AstraZeneca
- Inclusion & Diversity:
- https://careers.astrazeneca.com/inclusion-diversity
- Career site:
- https://careers.astrazeneca.com/
- Date Posted
- 28-apr.-2026
- Closing Date
- 23-maj-2026
- 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.