Scientist 2-Protein Chemistry

 Xencor is an innovative, clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company located in Pasadena, California. We use our pioneering XmAb® technology to discover and develop better biotherapeutics, antibodies and cytokines with improved function, with the goal of improving patient outcomes and quality of life. We have an excellent opportunity for a Scientist 2 to join our Protein Chemistry team focusing on protein purification and characterization.

Summary:

We are seeking a PhD level scientist to join our Protein Chemistry team within the Protein Science and Technology department. This department is a significant contributor in research and innovation and supports the development of our antibody and cytokine therapies. This open position is an exciting opportunity to impact the next wave of drug development candidates to enter our pipeline. The ideal candidate has expertise and extensive hands-on experience in protein production from various mammalian expression systems using affinity and traditional chromatography, as well as technical expertise in multiple analytical tools to characterize the molecules. The ideal candidate is highly motivated, able to work in a fast-paced matrixed environment. She/he will collaborate closely with the Protein Engineering, Antibody Discovery, Molecular Biology and Bioanalytical and Biophysical Characterization teams to advance therapeutic molecules in research and development portfolios. Candidates should have a demonstrated record of technical proficiency, scientific creativity, and ability to work effectively with other talented scientists.

Job Responsibilities:

• Support Xencor’s pipeline by contributing as a subject matter expert in production and characterization of antibodies and recombinant proteins.
• Develop and conduct experiments to characterize the physical properties of recombinant proteins across multiple platforms and technologies (e.g., MS, FPLC, HPLC, CE-SDS, cIEF).
• Provides oversight and direction to direct and indirect reports, as applicable, in accordance with the Xencor’s policies and procedures.

Qualifications:

• PhD in related field (Biochemistry, Biophysics, Chemistry, Chemical Biology, Molecular biology) with 3 or more years of industry experience.
• Extensive hands-on experience with the design, development, and optimization in recombinant protein purification/characterization techniques across multiple platforms and technologies is a must (e.g., MS, FPLC, HPLC, CE-SDS, cIEF). Technical experience with the AKTA purification platform is a plus.
• Preference given to candidates with strong research experience in protein chemistry, automation, structural biology, protein formulation, stability assessments, mass spectroscopy, protein labelling and conjugation techniques.
• Prior experience in collaborating on project teams matrixed across functions including contract laboratories and strong research study experience is a plus.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills are a must.
• Excellent organizational skills, passionate about adaptive learning, critical thinking, and the ability to work well in a team.
• Ability to follow the established Environmental Health & Safety rules, procedures, and/or BioSafety Guidelines
• Ability to read and understand Safety Data Sheets (SDSs).
• Knowledge of biosafety techniques and aseptic/gowning practices.
• Experience with laboratory safety standards and procedures, including chemical and biohazard handling and disposal techniques, and the ability to ensure laboratory compliance with required safety regulations.
• Thorough knowledge of the operation and maintenance of various lab equipment such as microscopes, centrifuges, spectrophotometers, balances, pH meters, and electrophoresis equipment, freezers, and incubators.

Additional Job Qualifications

• Designs, performs, analyzes, and interprets experimental data.
• Maintains detailed records and participates to project team meetings by communicating experimental results and advising on the best methods to generate protein molecules for downstream applications.
• May contribute to authoring of scientific documents as needed.
• Mentors direct reports, developing their expertise in experimental design and execution as well as guiding their professional development. The responsibilities may include, but are not limited to recruiting, training, communicating job expectations, appraising, and managing job performance, delivering feedback, and coaching and providing career development planning and opportunities.
• Passionate about learning/implementing new technologies that enhance the discovery process.
• Follows all laboratory safety guidelines, practices, and protocols.
• Adheres to all department and company-wide policies regarding conduct, performance, and procedures.
• Performs other duties such as assigned.

Occasional travel may be required, including travel between Xencor’s Monrovia and San Diego offices. Work for this position is generally performed at Xencor’s worksite and requires full-time commitment.

Expected Base Salary Range:  $110,000.00 - $130,000.00

The actual salary will be based on the selected candidate’s qualifications, including skills, competencies, education and experience. Xencor offers a competitive total rewards package including 401k match, healthcare coverage, ESPP and a broad range of other benefits.  In addition, this position will be eligible for an annual bonus and equity grant. For more information, please see https://xencor.com/careers/.

As a condition of employment, Xencor requires all employees to have received a CDC authorized COVID-19 vaccine regimen and at least one booster dose.   New employees will be required to provide proof that at least two weeks have passed since their booster dose as of their start date unless an exemption or accommodation has been requested and approved. 

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Statement

The Company will provide reasonable accommodations (such as a qualified sign language interpreter or other personal assistance) with the application process upon your request as required to comply with applicable laws. If you have a disability and require assistance in this application process, please contact HR@xencor.com.

To perform this job successfully, an individual must be able to perform each essential duty satisfactorily. Reasonable Accommodations may be made to enable qualified individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

Equal Employment Opportunity (EEO) Statement

The Company is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender or gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law.

Xencor does not accept profiles or resumes from recruiting vendors without a binding written agreement. Any unsolicited submission of services and or resumes in no way creates an obligation or duty by Xencor, implied or otherwise.