Thesis work -Turbuhaler Material change

Job description
Inhalers are devices that are used to deliver medication to the lungs to treat respiratory diseases like asthma and COPD (sv. KOL). At AstraZeneca Sweden Operations several such inhaler products are produced. These inhalers are complex designs composed of both plastic and metal components. Recently we have identified a need for changing the material in one of the Turbuhaler device components to reduce AZ’s carbon footprint and facilitate improved manufacturability. However, the polymer material qualities that are accepted for use with pharmaceuticals and for medical devices are highly controlled and limited, resulting in extended timelines for finding alternative or replacement materials. 

Responsibilities
The aim of this project is to find an alternative material for the device component with similar mechanical properties. This include:
• identification of relevant material properties based on the device’s functional-, processing and assembly requirements
• identify alternative materials with improved environmental sustainability 
• collaboration with the component supplier, academia and/or external test institutes
• laboratory work, most likely focused on mechanical properties (short term and long term) and testing
• assessment of potential carbon footprint reduction

Qualifications
M. Sc. student in the area of polymer technology, chemistry, chemical engineering, mechanical engineering, material science or equivalent. Students with strong background and interest in polymeric materials are strongly encouraged to apply.

For us, it is important that all competence and skills in the labor market are utilized. We welcome all applicants and strive for diversity.

The work (30 or 60 credits) will be carried out at AstraZeneca or at a relevant academic institution. 

Starting date: Autumn 2020

Application
AstraZeneca is cooperating with Randstad Life Sciences in this recruitment process. We only accept applications through Randstad’s website.

Deadline for application: 2020-05-24, selection and interviews will be ongoing. The position may be filled before the last day of application, therefore, apply as soon as possible.

For more information: Cornelia Strandh cornelia.strandh@randstad.se 

About the company
AstraZeneca är ett globalt innovationsdrivet bioläkemedelsföretag som fokuserar på forskning, utveckling, tillverkning och kommersialisering av receptbelagda läkemedel inom viktiga hälsovårdsområden. Vi förvandlar goda idéer till effektiva läkemedel för att förbättra patienters hälsa och livskvalitet över hela världen. Vi är dessutom mer än ett av världens ledande läkemedelsföretag, på AstraZeneca är vi stolta över den företagskultur vi har som inspirerar till utveckling och samarbete. Vi strävar efter att vara ledande inom allt vi gör och vårt konkurrenskraftiga och flexibla belöningssystem är inget undantag.