Research Fellow: Biopharma Economics & Sustainability Modelling

UCL - Biochemical Engineering / AstraZeneca

About us

The “Next-Gen Biopharma Manufacturing 5.0” Prosperity Partnership is a 5-year collaborative programme between UCL Biochemical Engineering and AstraZeneca, jointly funded by EPSRC and AstraZeneca. It aims to transform antibody manufacturing using AI, automation, digital twins and advanced analytics to improve production of therapies for cancer, obesity and autoimmune conditions. Delivered through the UCL–AstraZeneca Centre of Excellence, the programme will appoint six postdoctoral researchers to work across UCL and AstraZeneca sites, combining computational and experimental approaches. UCL Biochemical Engineering is a global leader in bioprocess engineering research and education, with a mission to develop innovative biomanufacturing solutions for health and a sustainable bioeconomy. The department combines world-class facilities, strong industrial links, and an interdisciplinary research culture. AstraZeneca is a global, science-led biopharmaceutical company with a focus on the discovery, development, and commercialisation of medicines in Oncology, Rare Diseases, and BioPharmaceuticals.

About the role

We are seeking a highly motivated postdoctoral researcher to join this ambitious Prosperity Partnership between UCL and AstraZeneca and work in a cross-disciplinary team across both sites (London and Cambridge). This role will contribute to evaluating the economic and environmental impact of next-generation biomanufacturing technologies, supporting more sustainable and cost-effective development pathways for advanced biologics though data-driven decision-making. The postholder will lead on the development of integrated techno-economic and life cycle assessment models, incorporating uncertainty analysis and multi-objective optimisation to evaluate and optimise the cost, carbon footprint and resource impacts of emerging bioprocess strategies. These decisional tools will be applied to real-world case studies in collaboration with AstraZeneca to generate insights that inform strategic choices and industrial implementation. This role is funded for 2 years in the first instance, with potential for extension.

About you

You will hold (or be near completion of) a PhD in a relevant discipline such as biochemical engineering, chemical engineering, industrial engineering, environmental sustainability, or a related field. You will bring expertise in techno-economic analysis and life cycle assessment, along with strong quantitative modelling and analytical skills. You will have an understanding of biopharmaceutical manufacturing, experience in interdisciplinary research and be motivated to deliver real-world impact in biopharma. You will bring excellent communication skills, a collaborative mindset, and the ability to work independently to deliver impact. Experience developing decision-support tools and familiarity with LCA software, optimisation and uncertainty analysis are desirable. A commitment to UCL’s values and to promoting equality, diversity and inclusion is essential.

What we offer

As well as exciting opportunities this role presents, we also offer some great benefits, visit https://www.ucl.ac.uk/work-at-ucl/rewards-and-benefits to find out more.

Our commitment to Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

As London’s Global University, we know diversity fosters creativity and innovation, and we want our community to represent the diversity of the world’s talent. We are committed to equality of opportunity, to being fair and inclusive, and to being a place where we all belong. We therefore particularly encourage applications from candidates who are likely to be underrepresented in UCL’s workforce. Our department holds an Athena Swan Gold award in recognition of our commitment and demonstrable impact in advancing gender equality. You can read more about our commitment to Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion here: https://www.ucl.ac.uk/equality-diversity-inclusion/

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