Senior Scientist, Molecular Interactions, Discovery Biologics

MSD • Boston, MA

7d • Onsite

About The Position

Discovery Biologics in Boston, Massachusetts, is seeking a Senior Scientist to join its Molecular Interactions group. The group develops fit-for-purpose binding assays and characterizes a diverse portfolio of biologics, including monoclonal antibodies, bi- and multispecifics, Fc-fusion proteins, and other novel protein therapeutics. Discovery Biologics applies machine learning, advanced automation, ultra-high-throughput in vitro and in vivo technologies, and advanced characterization techniques to discover and engineer biologics.

The Senior Scientist will contribute to the invention of novel biologics and analyze molecular interactions of therapeutic candidates using technologies such as surface plasmon resonance (SPR), biolayer interferometry (BLI), and kinetic-exclusion assay (KinExA). The role applies expertise in molecular-interaction method development, high-throughput execution, and new technologies to enable biologics discovery and engineering. As a member of project teams, the scientist will collaborate across groups on problems in disease biology and drug discovery, present research, contribute to publications, and help shape group strategy.

The role involves collaborating respectfully within a multidisciplinary team and supporting a collaborative, inclusive environment. The position is based at the Boston laboratory. The posting lists regular employee status, no travel required, no visa sponsorship, domestic relocation, and standard lab reagents as hazardous materials. Flexible work arrangements are not applicable; shift is not indicated.

Requirements

• PhD in Biochemistry, Biomedical Sciences, Bioengineering, Molecular Biology, Biophysics, or a related STEM discipline, with 0–3 years of relevant industry experience; or an MS degree with more than 5 years of relevant industry experience.
• Candidates completing their PhD within three months may be considered.
• Broad experience in molecular-interaction and biophysical-characterization techniques.
• Expertise in molecular-interaction and analytical-method development, high-throughput execution, and application of new technologies.
• Deep expertise designing and characterizing biotherapeutic protein-protein interactions using relevant technologies such as SPR, BLI, and KinExA to assess binding kinetics, affinity, specificity, and epitope profiles.
• Hands-on experience with Carterra LSA and analysis of large datasets for kinetic/affinity and epitope-binning analyses.
• Experience delivering comprehensive characterization analyses that integrate molecular-interaction, analytical, and functional/cellular assay data to guide selection and progression of therapeutic leads.
• Demonstrated ability to work collaboratively in a multidisciplinary team environment.
• Excellent communication and organizational skills.

Nice To Haves

• Experience with on-cell affinity analysis using techniques such as KinExA, Mesoscale ELISA assays, and flow cytometry (FACS).
• Experience with analytical techniques such as ELISA, isothermal calorimetry (ITC), microscale thermophoresis (MST), light scattering (SEC-MALS or DLS), thermal stability (DSF or DSC), and mass photometry.
• Experience integrating laboratory automation for instrument setup and characterization workflows, using Tecan, Biomek, Hamilton, or similar systems.
• Hands-on experience with protein-conjugation techniques.
• Experience developing microfluidics, lab-on-a-chip, or flow-based research.
• Fluency in a modern programming language such as C++ or Python.

Responsibilities

• Deliver detailed molecular-interaction characterization data and analysis for therapeutic candidates using optimized methods and technologies including SPR (Carterra LSA and Biacore), BLI (Octet), and KinExA.
• Present research findings at group meetings, project meetings, and external meetings.
• Contribute to program strategy as the characterization representative on project teams.
• Collaborate with team members to expand characterization and developability workflows for analyzing and optimizing lead biologic molecules.
• Develop talent and strategically build teams with complementary skills, experiences, and perspectives.
• Foster a high-performance culture of collaboration, engagement, self-accountability, and inclusion.
• Contribute to and lead the authoring of patents and external publications.
• Collaborate across groups to address complex problems in disease biology and drug discovery.
• Attend scientific conferences and help set group strategy.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, vision, healthcare, and other insurance benefits for employees and their families.
• Retirement benefits, including a 401(k).
• Paid holidays, vacation, compassionate days, and sick days.
• Eligible for an annual bonus and long-term incentive, if applicable.

What This Job Offers

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