Thesis Work, 60 Credits - Biochemical and biophysical affinity screening workflow development for intractable targets

Are you eager to advance the future of drug discovery through the latest biophysical and biochemical technologies? Join our collaborative research teams and gain hands-on experience with cutting-edge in-solution affinity assays, including Structural Dynamics Response (SDR) and Spectral Shift (SpS), to tackle challenging drug targets. This master’s thesis offers a unique opportunity to develop innovative experimental approaches, learn state-of-the-art techniques, and contribute to real-world breakthroughs in screening and characterizing disease-relevant targets.  About AstraZeneca:  AstraZeneca is a global, science-led, patient-centered biopharmaceutical company focusing on discovering, developing, and commercializing prescription medicines for some of the world’s most serious diseases. But we’re more than a global leading pharmaceutical company. At AstraZeneca, we're dedicated to being a Great Place to Work and empowering employees to push the boundaries of science and fuel their entrepreneurial spirit.  About the Opportunity:  As a Thesis Worker at AstraZeneca, you’ll find an environment that’s full of unique opportunities and exciting challenges. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to pursue your areas of interest whilst equally developing a broad skillset and knowledge base to get the best out of your experience. You’ll be working on meaningful projects to make an impact and deliver real value for our patients and our business.  Thesis Work Description:  Biochemical and biophysical assays play a vital role throughout drug discovery, including high-throughput screening (HTS), lead optimization, structure-activity-relationship (SAR) analysis, and determining mode-of-action (MoA). As the biological functions of many disease-relevant drug targets become increasingly complex or poorly understood, affinity-based assays are essential in place of traditional activity assays to identify binders.  In this project, you will work with in-solution affinity technologies such as Structural Dynamics Response (SDR) and Spectral Shift (SpS) to investigate challenging targets. This thesis will provide hands-on experience in experimental design, cell culture, high-throughput assay development, assay validation, and scientific thesis writing at the interface of biophysics and biochemistry. You will be part of two collaborative research teams, participating in laboratory work, data analysis, and the presentation of results in scientific meetings. Active contribution to project development is expected.      Objectives:  Develop and benchmark SDR versus SpS as in-solution affinity measurement techniques for both precedented and challenging targets  Characterize effects of different MoAs in each technology and establish best practices  Identify which modalities are amenable to screening using these technologies  Placement:    This is an on-site position at AstraZeneca Gothenburg.  AstraZeneca does not support accommodation for this role.  Structure:  · Duration: Fall term 2026  · Credits: 60  Essential requirements:  Enrolled in a Swedish University  Enrolled in a master’s program in life sciences or biotechnology with a strong cell biology, biophysical or biochemical focus  Excellent organizational and interpersonal skills, with an ability to work collaboratively across teams  Excellent communication skills in English (speaking, presenting and writing)  Practical biochemical laboratory experience, including pipetting, handling of solid and liquid chemicals, handling of biomolecules  Good understanding of biochemical assays and ligand binding kinetics  Desirable Requirements:  Practical experience with cell culture techniques   Capable of working effectively within cross-functional teams  So, what is next?  Apply today and take the chance to be part of making a difference, making connections, and gaining the tools and experience to open doors and fulfil your potential. We can't wait to hear from you!  We welcome your application as soon as possible, but ahead of the scheduled closing date April 10, 2026. If we identify suitable candidates ahead of the scheduled closing date, we reserve the right to withdraw the vacancy earlier than published.  Date Posted 20-Mar-2026 Closing Date 10-Apr-2026 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.