Senior Scientist

Sanofi•Cambridge, MA

1d•Hybrid

About The Position

At Sanofi, we are committed to being a world-class biologics research organization, dedicated to bringing next-generation, transformative therapies to patients. Our global Large Molecule Research (LMR) organization focuses on antibodies and NANOBODY molecules as therapeutic modalities. Our platform enables and partners closely with other research platforms and Sanofi’s therapeutic areas (Immunology & Inflammation, Immuno-Oncology, Rare & Neurologic Diseases) in the discovery and ultimate delivery of new candidate molecules. We are seeking an exceptional and highly motivated Senior Scientist to join our innovative team in the Molecular, Expression and Screening Technologies (MEST) Group within Sanofi's North America R&D LMR organization. The successful candidate will serve as a scientific leader and expert in ultra-high-throughput protein and antibody expression, driving the development and optimization of next-generation production platforms that support therapeutic candidates designed by state-of-the-art AI/ML models and structural biology. In addition to overseeing day-to-day operations of cutting-edge automated systems, the candidate will play a pivotal role in shaping the strategic direction of the high-throughput expression platform, identifying opportunities for innovation, and championing cross-functional scientific initiatives across MEST and LMR (Antibody Discovery, Protein Production, and Protein Engineering). The candidate will be expected to independently lead complex projects, mentor junior scientists, and contribute to the broader scientific community through publications, patents, and conference presentations. The demand for production of complex protein variants continues to grow significantly year on year, and this role will be instrumental in designing scalable, forward-looking solutions to meet and anticipate those needs. The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in mammalian expression systems, automation technologies, and data-driven approaches to protein production, combined with the scientific vision and leadership skills to drive platform evolution. Join the engine of Sanofi’s mission — where deep immunoscience meets bold, AI-powered research. In R&D, you’ll drive breakthroughs that could turn the impossible into possible for millions.

Requirements

Master’s degree with minimum 2 years of experience in a research laboratory or a biopharma/biotech company OR Bachelor’s degree in biology or related field with minimum 4 years of experience in a research laboratory or a biopharma/biotech company.
Extensive experience designing, optimizing, and leading high-throughput automation workflows using advanced liquid handling platforms (Tecan/Hamilton) and integrated robotic systems.
Deep expertise in transient mammalian protein and antibody expression, including troubleshooting complex expression challenges, optimization of transfection strategies using recombinant DNA and developing novel solutions.
Strong experience with biological registration and data management systems (e.g., Genedata Biologics, Spotfire, Pipeline Pilot) and the ability to drive improvements in data integrity and workflow efficiency.
Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel and the broader Microsoft Office suite.
Exceptional organizational, time management, and communication skills, with the ability to influence and align diverse scientific and cross-functional stakeholders.
Proven ability to independently lead and manage multiple complex projects simultaneously, with a track record of delivering results in a fast-paced, matrixed environment.
Demonstrated experience presenting complex scientific findings to senior leadership, external partners, and broad scientific audiences in a clear, compelling, and strategic manner.
Experience contributing to or leading platform development initiatives, technology transfers, or process improvement programs within a pharmaceutical or biotechnology R&D environment.

Responsibilities

Lead the design, optimization, and implementation of ultra-high-throughput protein and antibody expression platforms supporting therapeutic discovery
Oversee day-to-day operations of cutting-edge automated systems (Tecan/Hamilton) and integrated robotic platforms, ensuring optimal performance
Drive innovation and scalability of the high-throughput expression platform to meet growing demand for complex protein variant production
Independently manage multiple complex projects simultaneously in a fast-paced, matrixed R&D environment
Partner with cross-functional teams (Antibody Discovery, Protein Production, Protein Engineering) to advance LMR initiatives and align on platform strategies
Develop and implement data-driven approaches to protein production using biological registration and data management systems (Genedata Biologics, Spotfire, Pipeline Pilot)
Mentor junior scientists and foster a culture of scientific excellence within the team
Present complex scientific findings to senior leadership and external partners; contribute through publications, patents, and conference presentations
Identify and evaluate emerging technologies and methodologies to maintain competitive advantage in large molecule research