AstraZeneca has announced the launch of the 2023 R&D Postdoctoral Challenge, an initiative designed to accelerate ideas to transform the treatment of some of the world's most complex diseases.
The R&D Postdoctoral Challenge has been designed to drive R&D productivity, promote diversity of thought and stimulate research opportunities across the globe. Unlike standard postdoctoral positions, the Challenge encourages applicants from anywhere around the world to devise their own research projects and help advance the next wave of therapeutics for people who need them most. This follows the success of the inaugural 2022 programme in which six finalists were awarded fully funded research positions within the Company.
Submissions for the 2023 Challenge are open to final-year MD and/or PhD students and postdoctoral researchers until 30 June and successful candidates will compete to be awarded a fully funded postdoctoral research position and join the vibrant scientific community within AstraZeneca. Working alongside a leading university, researchers will also receive access to in-house expertise, compounds, novel tools and technologies and mentoring support to develop their ideas and innovate.
Prof. Sir Mene Pangalos, Executive Vice President, BioPharmaceuticals R&D, AstraZeneca, said: "Our ambition through the R&D Postdoctoral Challenge is to promote a rich tapestry of ideas and create a diverse, global community of researchers with access to AstraZeneca's cutting-edge facilities and world-leading expertise. Last year, we were able to support all six of our finalists, and I am looking forward to seeing this year's entries and helping even more early-career scientists translate their ideas into meaningful benefits for patients."
Shortlisted applicants will have the chance to pitch their research ideas to a panel consisting of AstraZeneca leaders and external life science leaders in September, with the selection of finalists decided later in the year. Proposals will be reviewed based on scientific merit, and their potential to create real impact for patients, society and healthcare systems.
