Scientist II, Precision Medicine Pathology

AbbVie is currently offering a unique opportunity for a highly motivated individual to join our Precision Medicine Pathology team to play a key role in multi-disciplinary work, focused on developing new therapies and translational biomarkers for novel therapies.   As an integral member of the Precision Medicine Pathology team, the individual will interface with internal and external biology, genomics/proteomics, in vivo and toxicology teams to develop/drive tissue-based biomarker assays including immunohistochemistry (IHC) and/or in-situ hybridization (ISH) biomarker assay development to support the AbbVie pipeline and deliver novel clinical candidates. The role will investigate, identify, develop, and optimize novel methods and techniques for tissue-based biomarkers as well as act as a lead scientist in his/her area of expertise and critically evaluate relevant scientific advances, integrate this knowledge into research/discovery or clinical development programs.

Key Responsibilities Include:

• Lead IHC/ISH assay development for chromogenic and multiplex fluorescence platforms.
• Support target screening to identify biomarkers and indications for clinical development for multiple programs with internal and external collaborators.
• Integrate complex data sets including DNA, RNA, protein evaluations (various platforms such as microarray, ISH, IHC etc) from preclinical models, procured tissue and patient samples from exploratory clinical trials to support target validation and biomarker development efforts.
• Collaborate with a diverse set of scientists from histology/pathology, in vivo, molecular biology, cancer biology, biochemistry, protein biochemistry, biostatistics and clinical backgrounds to generate impactful hypotheses for biomarker development.
• May be involved in coordination of multiple collaborations (internal and external work requests, contracts, etc).
• Demonstrate the ability to support key project questions/needs by effectively utilizing available information, literature and technical expertise through lab-based activities.
• Understand and adhere to corporate standards regarding code of conduct, safety, appropriate handling of materials, controlled drug, GxP compliance, where applicable.

Grade level and title commensurate with experience

• Bachelors or equivalent education and 7+ years of experience, Master’s Degree or equivalent education and 5+ years of experience.
• Expertise in immunohistochemistry assay development is required.
• It is highly desired to have experience in assay development with automated IHC staining platforms.
• Proficiency in paraffin and cryo sectioning.
• Experience in chromogenic in-situ hybridization for both DNA and RNA, fluorescence IHC and multiplexing is highly preferred.  Familiarity with slide scanning and image analysis, in vitro and/or in vivo assays, genomic data and literature mining, disease/biological pathway analysis, and biomarker development is a plus.
• Experience in oncology, immuno-oncology, or immunology is desirable and a good grasp of drug discovery, clinical development, biochemistry, molecular biology, cancer biology and related subjects are a plus.
• Organizational, record-keeping, and strong computer skills are essential.
• Strong communication skills with preparation/presentation of data to people with diverse scientific backgrounds required.
• Excellent interpersonal skills, able to work in a team-oriented environment.  Research, scientific and program management experience a plus.
• ASCP-HT certification a plus

Key Leadership Competencies:

• Builds strong relationships with peers and cross functionally with partners to enable higher performance.
• Learns fast, grasps the "essence" and can change course quickly where indicated.
• Raises the bar and is never satisfied with the status quo.
• Creates a learning environment, open to suggestions and experimentation for improvement.
• Embraces the ideas of others, nurtures innovation and manages innovation to reality.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with demonstrated ability to work within a dynamic team environment.

AbbVie is an equal opportunity employer including disability/vets. It is AbbVie’s policy to employ qualified persons of the greatest ability without discrimination against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex (including pregnancy), physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, status as a disabled veteran, recently separated veteran, Armed Forces service medal veteran or active duty wartime or campaign badge veteran or a person’s relationship or association with a protected veteran, including spouses and other family members, or any other protected group status. We will take affirmative action to employ and advance in employment qualified minorities, women, individuals with a disability, disabled veterans, recently separated veterans, Armed Forces service medal veterans or active-duty wartime or campaign badge veterans. The Affirmative Action Plan is available for viewing in the Human Resources office during regular business hours.