Protein Sciences Senior Research Scientist

Job Description

General/Position Summary

The Protein Sciences Senior Research Scientist is an expert in purifying (mg to grams scale) and characterizing therapeutic proteins and reagents for early-stage and late-stage discovery research programs. The Senior Research Scientist is a subject matter expert in protein purification and protein analytics for cross-functional project teams. The Senior Research Scientist is seeking opportunities to improve upon existing platform processes by bringing in new technologies in automation and instrumentation along with their deep knowledge in protein purification and characterization.

Key Duties & Responsibilities

• Operate the AKTA Avant and AKTA Explorer systems (Unicorn software) to purify antibodies, Fc fusions, and histidine-tagged protein reagents suitable for both in-vitro and in-vivo testing
• Design a purification strategy utilizing various techniques including ProA, IMAC, Ion Exchange, HIC, and Preparative SEC, based on a fit-for-purpose approach
• Generate analytical characterization data using UV-Vis Spectroscopy, analytical SEC (UPLC-HPLC through Empower software), endotoxin tests, SDS-PAGE, and western blotting, etc.
• Engage in collaborations across cross-functional teams and with vendors for mass spectroscopy analysis
• Optimize BLI assays to determine kinetics of therapeutic proteins for protein-protein interaction (KD, koff, kon)
• Deliver verbal and presentation updates on purification and analytics to the Protein Science Team, Project Teams, and a broader Research Team
• Ensure that a detailed record of protein lots is maintained in both the protein database and electronic lab notebooks in a timely manner

Required Knowledge/Skills

• Proven expertise in utilizing Unicorn software and AKTA systems for protein purification, along with a solid understanding of related instrumentation
• Extensive hands-on experience in various protein capture and polishing techniques using resins like MabSelect SuRE, MabSelect PrismA, Capto L, Capto DEAE, Capto Q, and Capto S
• Proficient in using Empower software to execute SEC, HIC, and reversed phase methods with Waters HPLC and UPLC systems, along with familiarity with the required instrumentation
• Experience in running SDS-PAGE and developing protocols for Western blot analysis
• Experience in running kinetics or quantitative assays using BLI systems such as Gator Bio or Octet
• Experience in ranking variants based on protein stability and manufacturability
• Familiarity with Mass Spectrometry for identification, thermal melt analysis for protein stability
• Experience in working in a highly collaborative laboratory which is timeline-driven and result orientated team is a must
• Experience in working on early-discovery protein therapeutic candidates that matured into clinical development is a plus
• Knowledge of running cIEF assays using PA-800 (Sciex) system to analyze charged variants is a plus
• Experience in mammalian cell culture work to transiently express recombinant proteins is plus

Required Education Level

• Ph.D. (or equivalent degree) in cellular biology, biochemistry, biophysics, or bio/chemical engineering and 3 + years of relevant industry experience, or
• Master's Degree (or equivalent degree) in cellular biology, biochemistry, biophysics, or bio/chemical engineering and 5+ years of relevant industry experience, or
• Bachelor's Degree (or equivalent degree) in cellular biology, biochemistry, biophysics, or bio/chemical engineering and 8 + years of relevant industry experience

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Pay Range:

$116,000 - $174,000

Disclosure Statement:

The range provided is based on what we believe is a reasonable estimate for the base salary pay range for this job at the time of posting. This role is eligible for an annual bonus and annual equity awards. Some roles may also be eligible for overtime pay, in accordance with federal and state requirements. Actual base salary pay will be based on a number of factors, including skills, competencies, experience, and other job-related factors permitted by law.

At Vertex, our Total Rewards offerings also include inclusive market-leading benefits to meet our employees wherever they are in their career, financial, family and wellbeing journey while providing flexibility and resources to support their growth and aspirations. From medical, dental and vision benefits to generous paid time off (including a week-long company shutdown in the Summer and the Winter), educational assistance programs including student loan repayment, a generous commuting subsidy, matching charitable donations, 401(k) and so much more.

Flex Designation:

On-Site Designated

Flex Eligibility Status:

In this On-Site designated role, you will work five days per week on-site with ad hoc flexibility.

Note: The Flex status for this position is subject to Vertex's Policy on Flex @ Vertex Program and may be changed at any time.

Company Information

Vertex is a global biotechnology company that invests in scientific innovation.

Vertex is committed to equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination for all employees and qualified applicants without regard to a person's race, color, sex, gender identity or expression, age, religion, national origin, ancestry, ethnicity, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, marital status, or any characteristic protected under applicable law. Vertex is an E-Verify Employer in the United States. Vertex will make reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals with known disabilities, in accordance with applicable law.

Any applicant requiring an accommodation in connection with the hiring process and/or to perform the essential functions of the position for which the applicant has applied should make a request to the recruiter or hiring manager, or contact Talent Acquisition at ...