RA II, Biophysical Characterization

The candidate will be a highly motivated, self-driven individual ready to work in Analytical Sciences department as part of a highly collaborative and multidisciplinary environment. The position will focus on analytical development and biophysical characterization activities of gene therapy, protein and peptide based therapeutics, emphasizing biochemical and biophysical characterization of these molecules and their degradation products. Including understanding structure function relationships, solubility profiles, thermodynamics/kinetics, and interactions with other molecules. 

RESPONSIBILITIES

The research assistant position will be part of the Biophysical Characterization group within Analytical Sciences. The scope of the work includes but is not limited to biophysical characterization of different molecules in support of early candidate and process selection, DS/DP characterization testing to support agency filings. The individual will be responsible for providing lab support for the development and implementation of novel biophysical and biochemical methodologies for characterization of different gene therapy and protein biologics molecules in pre-clinical and clinical phase. The ideal candidate will have hands-on experience analyzing and characterizing different biologic modalities using a myriad of analytical tools for spectroscopic, calorimetric, and physicochemical solution analysis. The candidate should be an effective communicator of ideas, project goals, and results to team members in collaborating departments. The ability to proactively identify issues and develop solutions in a collaborative multidisciplinary environment is essential. 

Responsibilities include but are not limited to the following:

• Be a hands-on presence in the laboratory, supporting development, optimization, and implementation of biophysical characterization assays within Analytical Sciences for various gene therapy and protein biologic programs. 
• Collaborate with partner teams both within the department and outside like Upstream and Downstream Process Development, Formulations, and Research & Early Development, to provide analytical support for ongoing studies. 
• Document experimental results routinely in electronic lab notebooks to maintain data robustness and integrity. 
• Prepare presentations and write technical reports, summarizing the results of studies.
• Good communication skills to allow communicating data, results and recommended next steps to project and group leaders clearly and effectively.
• Work on multiple projects simultaneously while meeting aggressive timelines.

EDUCATION

A B.S. or M.S. degree in Biochemistry, Biophysics, Analytical Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Biomedical Engineering or a related field. A strong background in viral vector gene therapy, protein chemistry or related fields is preferred. 

EXPERIENCE

Experience should include 2+ years of relevant academic or industry experience in the development of viral vector or protein-based therapeutics. 

*  Hands-on experience in the biotechnology industry or academic setting with a broad range of techniques focused on protein, DNA, or virus purification and characterization is required.

*  Experience with some biophysical and biochemical characterization methods is required:

• Biochemical and molecular biology assays (alkaline gel electrophoresis, western blot/Wes, ELISA, ddPCR)
• Analytical chromatography methods (SEC/RP/HILIC/IEX-HPLC)
• Spectroscopic methods (UV, CD, fluorescence, FRET, FRAP)
• Thermodynamic methods (DSC and ITC)
• Light scattering methods (MALS, DLS)

*  Experience with chromatographic purification methods (HPLC, FPLC, AKTA) or mass spectrometry is preferred.

*  Strong analytical troubleshooting and experimental design skills are required.

*  Excellent project management, verbal/written communication, and interpersonal skills are required.

WORK ENVIRONMENT / PHYSICAL DEMANDS

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job. Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is occasionally exposed to work near moving mechanical parts; fumes or airborne particles; toxic or caustic chemicals; risk of electrical shock and vibration. The noise level in the work environment is usually moderate.

The employee may frequently be required to sit and talk or hear. The employee is occasionally required to stand; walk; use hands to finger, handle, or feel; reach with hands and arms; climb or balance; stoop, kneel, crouch, or crawl and taste or smell. The employee must occasionally lift and/or move up to 25 pounds. Specific vision abilities by this job include close vision, depth perception and ability to adjust focus.

EQUIPMENT

Analytical laboratory equipment.

CONTACTS

Other scientists within Purification Process Development, Cell Culture Process Development, Analytical Chemistry, Quality Control, and Formulation; project managers, and laboratory associates.

PLEASE NOTE: Absent a Medical or Religious reason that prohibits vaccinations, all our incoming employees must be vaccinated for COVID-19.

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