Director I, Purification Development

AbbVie • Worcester, MA

2d • Onsite

About The Position

We are seeking a high-impact, innovative Director to join the Purification Development team within the Biologics Drug Substance Development organization at AbbVie’s Bioresearch Center in Worcester, MA. Our team drives end-to-end downstream process development, from first-in-human through commercialization, across diverse biologics modalities. We are responsible for late-stage optimization, scale-up, tech transfer, and process characterization, while advancing next-generation purification technologies that enable robust, cost-effective manufacturing and create differentiated intellectual property. The Director will lead the development and advancement of robust, scalable purification processes, while shaping innovative technologies and strategies that accelerate development timelines and enable commercialization success. This role requires a strong foundation in biologics purification, combined with the ability to lead teams, navigate complex programs, and influence cross-functional strategy. The ideal candidate brings both deep technical expertise and a passion for hands-on process development, alongside a demonstrated ability to drive innovation and deliver results in a fast-paced, matrixed environment.

Requirements

• Advanced degree in Chemical Engineering, Biochemistry, Chemistry, or related field
• PhD with ~12+ years, MS with ~16+ years, or BS with ~18+ years of relevant experience in biologics purification process development
• Proven expertise in downstream bioprocessing, including: Chromatography (affinity, CEX, AEX, HIC, mixed-mode; resin and membrane systems)
• Filtration (depth, viral, sterile, TFF)
• Demonstrated ability to: Design, execute, and interpret complex experiments independently
• Develop robust, scalable purification processes across development stages
• Drive technical innovation and platform advancement
• Strong working knowledge of analytical techniques (e.g., HPLC) and data interpretation
• Hands-on experience with chromatography systems (e.g., ÄKTA platforms or equivalent)
• Track record of: Scientific leadership and cross-functional influence
• Publications, regulatory submissions, and technical communications
• Leading teams and developing talent
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to influence at all levels of the organization
• Collaborative mindset with demonstrated success working in matrixed, cross-functional environments
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to influence at all levels of the organization
• Collaborative mindset with demonstrated success working in matrixed, cross-functional environments

Responsibilities

• Lead development, optimization, scale-up, and tech transfer of purification processes across early- and late-stage biologics programs
• Drive scientific innovation by identifying, developing, and implementing novel purification approaches and platform enhancements
• Solve complex technical challenges using first-principles understanding and data-driven decision making
• Anticipate emerging scientific, regulatory, and industry trends, translating insights into actionable strategies
• Represent Purification Development on cross-functional CMC teams, influencing integrated development strategies
• Lead tech transfer to pilot and GMP manufacturing sites, ensuring robust and scalable processes
• Partner across functions (Upstream, Analytical, Manufacturing, Regulatory) to deliver end-to-end development outcomes
• Navigate multiple, complex programs simultaneously, balancing priorities and timelines
• Lead, mentor, and develop a high-performing team of scientists, fostering a culture of accountability, innovation, and collaboration
• Provide technical coaching and strategic guidance across the organization
• Build team capability through talent development, performance management, and succession planning
• Generate and lead new scientific proposals and technology initiatives
• Drive intellectual property creation and contribute to AbbVie’s innovation pipeline
• Author technical reports, regulatory filings, and publications, and represent AbbVie at external scientific forums
• Maintain a strong connection to the laboratory, guiding experimental design and execution as needed
• Ensure delivery of high-quality data and documentation to support regulatory submissions and commercialization
• Communicate complex scientific concepts clearly to technical and non-technical stakeholders

Benefits

• paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick)
• medical/dental/vision insurance
• 401(k)
• short-term incentive programs

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Director
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree