Sr. Scientist, Protein Therapeutics

Position Overview

Leads in the purification and analytical characterization of proprietary polymer-protein or polymer-peptide conjugates.

Leads in the planning and execution of scientific experimentation to support the protein therapeutic pipeline for the company. Applies knowledge of protein chemistry, mass spectrometry, and protein-protein interaction techniques, to design and develop appropriate data sets that support company initiatives. Develops analytical methods for Research and to support tech transfer for manufacturing. Manages workflow among a complex set of projects, collaborators and sites. This position contributes to and supports the company's research and development efforts to create high value therapeutics to address unmet medical needs. Works on complex problems in which analysis of situations or data requires an in-depth evaluation of various factors. Exercises judgment within broadly defined practices and policies in selecting methods, techniques and evaluation criteria for obtaining results. May determine methods and procedures on new assignments. Serves as an in-house consultant. May act as spokesperson on corporate research/technology/development and advise senior management. Leads in the use of professional and scientific concepts to contribute to the development of company concepts and principles to achieve objectives in creative and effective ways.Synthesizes multiple data sources and draws general, non-obvious conclusions. Defines complex problems, develops approaches and develops experiments with sound judgment. Key contributor in the development of IP. Interfaces with various departments, customers and partners. Puts work practices in context with larger team and participates in the implementation of change when required. Plans and coordinates activities with other team members. Writes and/or approves complex reports and protocols. Identifies needs for additional resources. Designs protein or peptide conjugation strategies and independently synthesizes and analyzes conjugates to support the protein therapeutic pipeline. Develops and optimizes conditions for chemical conjugation, purification and analysis of polymer-protein or polymer-peptide conjugates. Works on multiple projects simultaneously, where coordination of efforts among various sites and attention to critical timelines is essential to success. Critically analyzes complex data and interprets experimental results. Works directly with biology and pharmacology teams to characterize the in vivo and in vitro activity of various polymer-polypeptide conjugates. Interfaces, works with and supports various departments at multiple locations. Plans and coordinates activities with other scientists, team members and the patent department. Develops analytical methods for characterization, lot release and technology transfer. Identifies and coordinates access to additional resources. Writes complex reports and protocols. Ensures thorough documentation of laboratory activities; technical reports detailing development efforts, analytical development reports, batch records, or technology transfer reports. Contribute to patent applications and IND filings as needed. Will be responsible for performing technology transfer to clients or internal Process Development/Manufacturing. May be expected to mentor and train individuals. Oral presentations will be periodically required. Travels to client site or other company functions as needed.

A PhD in Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, Chemistry or related field required. Exceptional non-PhDs with demonstrated capabilities or relevant industrial/biotechnology experience may be considered. A minimum of 5 years work experience in a research and/or development environment is required. Post-doctoral work may serve as experience. Demonstrated knowledge of protein characterization, HPLC method development, analytical method development and downstream process methodology is expected. Experience with mass spectrometry and peptide mapping is required. Must have hands-on experience in protein chemistry and protein-protein interaction analysis and be thoroughly familiar with basic protein chemistry tools such as SDS-PAGE, IEF and western blotting. Experience in polymer chemistry or small molecule chemistry is a plus. Experience with affinity chromatography, IEX, RP, SEC, or other methods, both for purification and for analytical development, is required.Methods may also be developed for MALDI-MS, LCMS, CE, Biacore, Fluorescence Polarization, and DLS. Thorough knowledge of HPLC and FPLC (e.g. AKTA) method development is required. Experience in protein/peptide stability testing or formulations development is highly desirable. Must be able to clearly communicate scientific information. Must have good interpersonal skills and be willing to work as part of a team. Must have the ability to effectively work with all levels of scientists and management, including foreign collaborators. Excellent scientific writing, communication, presentation, documentation, and computer skills required. Ability to work internationally and across multiple corporate sites.Must be a team player and mentor and work closely with both research efforts and process development. Must be able to exert influence effectively. Must be able to demonstrate sound judgment and problem solving capabilities.Strong organizational skills are required. Experience working in an FDA regulated environment and knowledge of current GMPs as they apply to laboratory practices are highly desired. Must be able to demonstrate broad success in technical proficiency, scientific creativity, collaboration with others and independent thought. Must represent the leading edge in field, while able to demonstrate expert knowledge in scientific principles and concepts both internally and externally with sustained performance and significant accomplishment on at least one area. Must be proficient in common office computer applications.Performance of tasks essential to the job function may require the employee to work directly with, handle, or otherwise come into contact with chemicals or pharmaceutical agents. Employees may be required to enroll in a medical surveillance program based on the potential exposure to certain health hazards encountered as a result of their job function. Must be able to lift small pieces of laboratory equipment and carry 4L solvent bottles when needed. Occasional work in a cold room (refrigerator temperature) may be required.

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and do not discriminate against applicants due to race, ethnicity, gender, veteran status, or on the basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class. Nektar Therapeutics will consider for employment qualified applicants with criminal histories in the manner proscribed by the San Francisco Fair Chance Ordinance.