Description Position Details School of Computer Science Location: University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham UK Full time starting salary is normally in the range £36,130 to £45,413 with potential progression once in post to £48,149 Grade: 7 Full Time, Fixed Term contract up to April 2026 Closing date: 30th April 2025 Background The University of Birmingham is inviting applications for a Research Fellow in Biochemistry, Biophysics or related areas. The research fellow will be based in Analytical Sciences, Physicochemical Development team at AstraZeneca, Cambridge, as a part of a collaboration between the University of Birmingham and AstraZeneca on the characterization of biopharmaceuticals to support the development of mathematical models of degradation pathways and shelf-life prediction. The aim of project is the safe integration of machine learning methods within the biopharmaceutical development process. This project offers an opportunity to be at the forefront of interdisciplinary research, making a significant contribution to the fundamental principles of how AI technologies are verified and safeguarded, with the potential to shape future regulatory standards for the application of AI in the biopharmaceutical manufacturing sector. Role Summary The Analytical Sciences – Physicochemical Development team enables the advancement of AstraZeneca’s biologics and new modalities portfolio using industry-leading analytical technologies. The team establishes platform methodologies and analytical strategies capable of supporting the pharmaceutical development of diversified modalities, that will become life-changing medicines. The candidate will be responsible for supporting the development of mathematical models for biopharmaceuticals as part of the Safeguarded AI programme funded by ARIA (Advanced Research and Invention Agency). The scope of the project is at the intersection of biochemistry and AI and is a collaboration between the School of Computer Science, University of Birmingham, and AstraZeneca, Cambridge. In this role, the candidate will characterise an array of biologics to generate accurate models for predicting protein degradation to support shelf-life assessment. This will support the development of mathematical models and algorithms for the analysis of biopharmaceutical manufacturing processes with a focus on assuring safety and alignment of machine learning models with the expected outcomes of the development process. Main Duties We are seeking a skilled and highly motivated Post-Doctoral Scientist to join us until April 2026 to be based in Analytical Sciences at AstraZeneca, Cambridge – Physicochemical Development team. The Research Fellow will be responsible for characterizing an array of biologics to generate accurate models for predicting protein degradation to support shelf-life assessment. In this role you will: Be responsible for the generation of new analytical data, characterizing the degradation pathways of a range of biopharmaceutical modalities. Be responsible for interpretation of the quality attribute and degradation data, providing both biochemical and biophysical context for input into the mathematical models, aiding further interpretation. Generate, analyse and interpret and report data independently, in a clear and concise manner, with an understanding of its implications within the overall context of the project. Apply knowledge in a way which develops new intellectual understanding. Present and discuss the findings of experiments at meetings, or appropriate forums, and will incorporate constructive feedback. Disseminate research findings at conferences and seminars and contribute to academic publications. Contribute to writing bids for research funding. Supervise students on research-related work and provide guidance to PhD students where appropriate to the discipline. Contribute to developing new models, techniques and methods. Undertake management/administration arising from research. Contribute to Departmental/School research-related activities and research-related administration. Contribute to enterprise, business development and/or public engagement activities of manifest benefit to the College and the University, often under supervision of a project leader. Deal with problems that may affect the achievement of research objectives and deadlines. Promotes equality and values diversity acting as a role model and fostering an inclusive working culture. This position is ideal for candidates eager to pursue a career in advanced industrial research or academia, and who are encouraged to contribute their own independent research ideas to the project. The post has the possibility to be extended subject to a successful delivery of the research and continuation towards a subsequent phase of the project. Person Specification First degree in area of specialism and normally, a higher degree in a relevant field such as Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Biophysics or other relevant scientific field, with proven relevant experience in the Life Science industry or equivalent qualifications/experience. Practical experience across a range of analytical techniques, related to protein-based therapeutics, including but not limited to: electrophoresis, liquid chromatography, mass spectrometry. Experience characterizing protein biochemical and biophysical degradation pathways, including interpretation of data and relationship back to the specific mechanism behind the degradation. Highly motivated, proactive individual with strong scientific curiosity and interest in continued learning. Team player with confidence to work with independently. Detail orientated with excellent problem-solving and communication skills whom consistently meets agreed timelines. Familiarity with the mathematical language commonly used in biophysics and/or bioinformatics. Knowledge of the machine learning models, and how to use them. Evidence of driving innovative science, including publication in high quality scientific journals. Knowledge of programming tools/languages, such as R/Python. Solid understanding of CMC development processes, including drug substance and drug product manufacturing, analytical development, and quality assurance. Ability to assess resource requirements and use resources effectively. Understanding of and ability to contribute to broader management/administration processes. Contribute to the planning and organising of the research programme and/or specific research project. Coordinate own work with others to avoid conflict or duplication of effort. Knowledge of the protected characteristics of the Equality Act 2010, and how to actively ensure in day-to-day activity in own area that those with protected characteristics are treated equally and fairly. Experience presenting research findings at seminars and conferences and ability to communicate complex information clearly. Informal enquiries to contact Dr. Mirco Giacobbe, email: m.giacobbebham.ac.uk, Dr. Leonardo Stella, email: l.stellabham.ac.uk, Dr. Jared Delmar, email: jared.delmarastrazeneca.com, or Dr. Paul Devine, email: paul.devineastrazeneca.com. We believe there is no such thing as a 'typical' member of University of Birmingham staff and that diversity in its many forms is a strength that underpins the exchange of ideas, innovation and debate at the heart of University life. We are committed to proactively addressing the barriers experienced by some groups in our community and are proud to hold Athena SWAN, Race Equality Charter and Disability Confident accreditations. We have an Equality Diversity and Inclusion Centre that focuses on continuously improving the University as a fair and inclusive place to work where everyone has the opportunity to succeed. We are also committed to sustainability, which is a key part of our strategy. You can find out more about our work to create a fairer university for everyone on our website .