Scientist II / Mass Spectrometry Automation Engineer

Job Description

Discovery Biotherapeutics and Genetic Medicine (BGM) within a market leading pharmaceutical company is seeking a highly motivated scientist to join the Biotherapeutics group at their Bay Area (ABA) site in South San Francisco.

This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to various Discovery Research Therapeutic Areas (TAs) and projects by providing production and analytical characterization of biologics and biopharmaceutical products, such as monoclonal antibodies, multi-specifics, and other antibody-like formats. As part of our team, your work will drive the discovery and development of next generation biologics through production and interrogation of protein attributes.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct mass spectrometry analyses for comprehensive characterization of biologics and biotherapeutics, including intact, reduced, and subunit approaches.
• Ensure the optimal functioning of LC/MS equipment through routine maintenance and effective troubleshooting.
• Design and execute production of biotherapeutic proteins to external CRO vendors, provide guidance on desired product quality attributes, then deliver the results of the production to our therapeutic partners.
• Contribute to team discussions, share valuable insights, and present experimental findings and progress updates to colleagues and stakeholders.
• Collaborates with MS experts across our Research & Development Division to assess and implement new bioanalytical technology.
• Independently and autonomously perform laboratory research and method development with minimal supervision, demonstrating high productivity and scientific initiative.

Qualifications

• BS, MS, or PhD in chemistry, biochemistry, or related discipline with typically 7+ (BS), 5+ (MS), or 0+ (PhD) years of relevant experience.
• Demonstrated hands-on expertise with various mass spectrometry platforms, including Waters Xevo G2-XS QToF, along with proficiency in MS workflows for protein characterization and the use of MS software for analyzing both routine and complex datasets.
• Proficiency in data processing and bioinformatic and statistical workflows (e.g., Protein Metrics, Biosphere, Waters Connect, UNIFI)
• Proven experience in the application of LC/MS analyses for interrogation of monoclonal antibodies, multispecific biologics, and protein therapeutics to provide sequence verification, post-translational modification, desired/expected chain pairing, and identity of DLP profile.
• Experience with coding/programming (e.g., Python, R, or relevant scripting languages) and in developing automated data workflows or solutions.
• Experience with chromatography and purification systems (protein A/G, AEX, SEC, mixed-mode with AKTA systems), and analytical instruments (Agilent HPLC, Waters UPLC and LC/MS, CE-SDS, SDS-PAGE) is a plus
• Goal-oriented team player with excellent verbal and written communication skills, a strong positive attitude, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary environment.