Associate Scientist, Process Development

Position Overview

Nektar has an exciting opportunity for an Associate Scientist, Process Development to join their External Manufacturing Team.

Participates in developing processes for the production, purification, and testing of PEGylated proteins. Performs day-today hands on operations for development, optimization, and characterization of PEGylated protein processes using a variety of techniques i.e. column chromatography, ultrafiltration/diafiltration. Analyzes and characterizes PEGylated proteins using HPLC, SDS-PAGE, IEF, etc. Involved in new product scale-up, purification, process optimization, technology transfer and process validation activities. Maintains substantial knowledge of state-of-the-art principles and theories. Uses professional concepts and company policies and procedures to solve a wide range of difficult problems in imaginative and practical ways. This position contributes to and supports the company's research and development efforts to create high value therapeutics to address unmet medical needs.

Responsibilities:

Works on problems of moderate scope in which analysis of situation or data requires a review of identifiable factors. Exercises judgment within defined procedures and practices to determine appropriate action. Normally receives general instructions on routine work, detailed instructions on new assignments. Participates in the development of patent applications. Interfaces with various departments, customers and partners. Uses professional concepts and scientific knowledge to contribute to the development of company concepts and principles to achieve objectives in creative and effective ways. Defines problems, develops approaches and develops experiments with sound judgment and some supervision. Puts work practices in context with larger team. Writes reports and protocols. Develops PEGylated protein conjugation processes using a variety of different chemistries, column purification techniques, and ultrafiltration/diafiltration techniques. May act as a principal investigator in conducting own experiments. May assist with implementing organizational systems, identifying capital equipment, and projecting near-term resource requirements. May provide guidance to junior scientific staff, providing training as needed, and ensures adherence to company policies and quality requirements.

Requirements:

A PhD in a scientific discipline is required. Equivalent experience may be accepted. A minimum of 1 year work experience in a research and/or development environment is preferred. Post-doctoral work may serve as experience. Exceptional non-PhDs with demonstrated capabilities and/or significant experience may also be considered. Must be able to demonstrate hands-on technical proficiency, scientific creativity, collaboration with others and independent thought. Must be able to clearly communicate scientific information both written and oral with minimal assistance. Must be able to compose sound written work with minimal assistance. Must possess good oral and written communication skills. Must be able to demonstrate sound judgment. Must be able to demonstrate problem solving capabilities. Strong organizational skills are required. Good computer skills are required. Working knowledge of MS word, Excel, Power point and Unicorn is a plus. Experience working in an FDA regulated environment and knowledge of current GMPs as they apply to laboratory practices are a plus. Must be willing to work as part of a team. Must be able to demonstrate good interpersonal skills.

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. Huntsville, AL only: Employee must be able to pass drug screening for employment consideration.

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.