(Senior) Scientist, Biochemical Sciences

Molecular Templates is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the discovery and development of differentiated, targeted, biologic therapeutics. Our proprietary biologic drug platform technology, known as engineered toxin bodies, or ETBs, leverages the resident biology of a genetically engineered form of Shiga-like Toxin A subunit to create novel therapies with potent and differentiated mechanisms of action for cancer and other serious diseases.  MTEM currently has multiple clinical-stage ETB candidates in development including MT-5111, MT-0169, and MT-6402.  Additional preclinical compounds derived from our ETB platform technology are being advanced toward clinical development. Additional information about Molecular Templates can be obtained at www.mtem.com.  

 

Position Overview:   

 

 

Molecular Templates is seeking an experienced and dynamic professional to join the Biochemical Sciences team within Product Attribute Sciences. This role requires knowledge and experience in biochemical characterization of protein therapeutics to elucidate structure, assess modifications, determine size, and charge variants, and define critical quality attributes (CQAs). The (Senior) Scientist, Biochemical Sciences will be a key member of high performing scientists responsible for development of liquid chromatographic, mass spectrometric, and a wide range of other biochemical methods. This role will be responsible for tracking and curating data to understand method and process performance. The ideal candidate is an innovative and creative scientist who will evaluate new and/or novel technology, and establish it as needed as part of Biochemical Sciences.

This role works closely with internal groups such as Biopharmaceutical Process and Product Development, Formulation Development, Quality, Manufacturing, Supply Chain, and Regulatory Affairs. You will work together developing and executing phase-appropriate DS, DP, and Reference Material release, stability, characterization, and comparability plans using a combination of internal and external resources. This leadership role will extend to outside groups, such as contract development organizations and contract testing laboratories, overseeing services pertaining to analytical characterization studies. Also, collaborate closely with colleagues in Upstream and Downstream Process Development, Biofunctional and Biophysical Sciences, Formulation and Drug Product Development, Quality Control, and Manufacturing to ensure that methods are robust and fit for purpose to help drive our molecules in development. This position requires excellent technical skills, the ability to thrive in a challenging environment, and the ability to follow procedures to enable the timely completion of tasks with high quality execution.

 

Job Responsibilities:

 

 

•  Key contributor of the Biochemical Sciences’ team where you will develop robust, efficient, and scalable analytical methods such as, but not limited to, U/HPLC, mass spectrometry, capillary methods (cIEF or CE-SDS), and other biochemistry-based analytical methods. This is a lab-based role; the (Senior) Scientist is expected to contribute primarily to, and in the lab. 
• Perform routine analysis of pipeline molecules using separation methods to support release, product and method characterization, process development, and stability.
• Maintain detailed experimental records. Complete required documentation in an accurate and timely manner, adhering to written procedures and regulatory requirements.
• In collaboration with team, work to solve problems of diverse scope where analysis of data requires evaluation of identifiable factors.
• Contribute to and author technical reports and process descriptions for internal review.
• Review and revise established protocols and SOPs related to CMC development.
• Support technology transfer of process internally and externally.
• Collaborate with colleagues to grow and develop internal and external capabilities.
• Interface with appropriate groups within Research and CMC Development organization to build understanding of the structure-function relationships of ETBs for establishing and confirming CQAs.
• Collaborate with various departments and serve as internal Subject Matter Expert, as appropriate and needed.
• Comfortable interacting with external CRO or Vendors to deliver on project goals when applicable.
• Embody our cultural values, and mission of approaching our work, and colleagues with: Passion, Respect, Purpose, Inclusion, and Integrity.

 

Qualifications:

 

 

• Degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or related field, required
• Preferred Experience: Two (2) years (Ph.D.), four (4) years for Master's or six (6) years with Bachelor's degree and relevant experience in pharmaceutical, biotechnology, or a related industry focused on drug development
• Experience in (Required) developing and (preferred) qualifying chromatographic methods for the testing of biologics
• Experience with biological process development, analytical, formulation and drug product development preferred
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, rapid-growth environment while managing competing priorities and timelines
• Demonstrated experience with large molecules (i.e., complex proteins)
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including excellent skills with Microsoft Office tools
• Excellent analytical skills and problem-solving skills
• Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams and contractors to drive results and meet company objectives
• Ability to function independently and exercise good judgement, as well as in a team-based environment
• Demonstrate ownership of tasks and be responsible to multiple stakeholders.
• Minimal travel required

 

Reporting Structure:

 

This position currently has no supervisory responsibilities. This position reports to Principal Scientist, Biochemical Sciences.

 

 

Molecular Templates celebrates and supports our differences and is proud to be an Equal Employment Opportunity employer.  We do not discriminate based upon race, religion, color, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions), sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, age, veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected characteristic.  

MTEM is committed to providing reasonable accommodations for qualified individuals.  If you need assistance with your application due to a disability, you may contact us at: careers@mtem.com.

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