Principal Scientist Metabolism Bioscience Research, CVRM

Job Title:

Principal Scientist (Director level),

Metabolism Bioscience Research Location:

Gaithersburg, MD (US) Are you an expert in the skeletal muscle biology? Would you like to apply your research expertise to accelerating innovative science and turn ideas into life changing medicines? Join us to discover future treatments of Cardiovascular, Renal and Metabolic (CVRM) diseases! We are seeking a passionate and accomplished Principal Scientist with expertise in skeletal muscle physiology, metabolism and drug discovery to join our vibrant research community in the Metabolism Bioscience Division within Early CVRM Research and Development. The Metabolism Bioscience Division is one of the three main therapeutic research areas within the Bioscience department that delivers candidate drugs into clinical development. The Early CVRM Bioscience department has a dynamic environment that fosters collaboration and innovation. We are a team of professionals who are passionate about advancing science to discover and develop novel therapeutics that will benefit patients with obesity, diabetes and their co-morbidities. Accountabilities This scientific leadership role offers an exciting opportunity to set strategic direction and shape the future of developing novel therapies for treating obesity, with a focus on mechanisms that will elicit healthy body weight loss and maintenance.

You will:

Apply your expertise in skeletal muscle physiology and metabolic diseases to drive scientific and technical innovation, identify and advance new therapeutic interventions. Lead multidisciplinary global project teams, as well as external collaborations, to deliver key experimental data and progress the drug project portfolio. Champion novel approaches to drug discovery in healthy body weight loss and body weight maintenance, facilitating scientific debate and innovation through leadership and mentorship within the CVRM Research community. Contribute to the evolution of research strategy within the Metabolism Bioscience division as a member of its leadership team. Play a lead role in the selection and validation of research targets, leading projects from discovery through to early clinical development, and serve as Bioscience lead on drug discovery projects. Raise the scientific profile of Early CVRM both internally and externally through high-impact publications, conference presentations, and leading collaborative initiatives. Essential Skills/Experience PhD in a relevant scientific discipline (e.g., metabolic diseases, musculoskeletal diseases, neuroscience, immunology etc.). 5+ years' drug discovery or relevant experience in academia, biotech, or pharmaceutical industry following postdoctoral research. Deep expertise in skeletal muscle biology and physiology, including in vitro, ex vivo and in vivo assay development. Extensive scientific knowledge of metabolic diseases and mechanisms of body weight regulation, alongside a strong track record of leading laboratory-based research. Experience in new model development, laboratory techniques, and enthusiasm for performing hands-on science. Demonstrated scientific leadership reflected by a robust publication track record in high impact journals, external presentations, and collaborations. Proven ability to manage multifaceted projects and establish research collaborations, leveraging a broad professional network. Track record as a project leader or bioscience lead, conducting, planning, and guiding complex scientific projects within multidisciplinary teams. Desirable Skills/Experience Significant experience with in vitro, in vivo, and ex vivo technologies to assess multiple target classes. Ability to manage multiple concurrent projects or tasks. Extensive network and collaboration experience within the metabolic diseases research field. AstraZeneca is committed to making a difference by fusing data and technology with scientific innovations to achieve breakthroughs. We empower our teams to explore the biology of complex diseases, making bold decisions without fear of failure. Our inclusive environment fosters collaboration across academia, biotechs, and industry, leveraging diverse global knowledge for swift impact on disease. With opportunities for continuous learning and career development, AstraZeneca is where curious minds thrive as we push the boundaries of science to deliver life-changing medicines. Ready to make an impact? Apply now to join our team! The annual base pay (or hourly rate of compensation) for this position ranges from $ 172,672.00 - $259,008.00 USD Annual. Our positions offer eligibility for various incentives—an opportunity to receive short-term incentive bonuses, equity-based awards for salaried roles and commissions for sales roles. Benefits offered include qualified retirement programs, paid time off (i.e., vacation, holiday, and leaves), as well as health, dental, and vision coverage in accordance with the terms of the applicable plans. Date Posted 24-Apr-2026 Closing Date 24-May-2026 Our mission is to build an inclusive environment where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants and employees. In furtherance of that mission, we welcome and consider applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of their protected characteristics. If you have a disability or special need that requires accommodation, please complete the corresponding section in the application form. AstraZeneca is a global, science-led, patient-focused biopharmaceutical company. We focus on discovering, developing and commercialising prescription medicines for some of the world's most serious diseases. But we are more than one of the world's leading pharmaceutical companies. At AstraZeneca, we're dedicated to being a Great Place to Work. Where you are empowered to push the boundaries of science, challenge convention and unleash your entrepreneurial spirit. To embrace differences and take bold actions to drive the change needed to meet global healthcare and sustainability challenges. There is no better place to make a difference in medicine, patients, and society. An inclusive culture where you will connect different thinking to generate new and valuable opportunities. Where you will find a commitment to lifelong learning, growth and development for all. Our Inclusion & Diversity (I&D) mission is to create an inclusive and equitable environment where people belong, using the power of our diversity to push the boundaries of science to deliver life-changing medicines to patients. Inclusion and diversity are fundamental to the success of our company, because innovation requires breakthrough ideas that only come from a diverse workforce empowered to challenge conventional thinking. We're curious about science and the advancement of knowledge. We find creative ways to approach new challenges. We're driven to make the right choices and be accountable for our actions. As an organisation centred around what makes us human, we put a big focus on people. Across our business, we want colleagues to wake up excited about their day at the office, in the field, or in the lab. Along with our purpose to bring life-changing medicines to people across the globe, we have a promise to you: to help you realise the full breadth of your potential. Here, you'll do work that has the potential to change your life and improve countless others. And, together with your team, you'll shape a culture that unites and inspires us every day. This is your life at AstraZeneca.