Sr. Scientist, Mass Spectrometry & Biologics Characterization

Neurocrine Biosciences • San Diego, CA

1d • $130,800 - $179,000

About The Position

Our dynamic team is seeking a motivated, collaborative, and experienced Senior Scientist to support biologics characterization for analytical development team. The qualified individual will work closely with team members to design, develop, and execute assays to deliver robust and high-quality data to drive decision-making. The position requires a dedicated mass spectrometry expertise supporting modality-agnostic characterization, developability assessment, and advanced method development from preclinical research through early development. Along with that, the position requires excellent scientific, technical and laboratory skills, strong organizational and communications skills, and enthusiasm for contributing to a fast-paced organization focused on discoveries of novel and differentiated therapeutic candidates.

Requirements

• BS/BA degree in chemistry or closely related field and 12+ years of pharmaceutical industry experience, focusing on separation method development OR MS/MA degree in chemistry or closely related field preferred and 10+ years of pharmaceutical industry experience noted above OR PhD in chemistry or closely related field and 4+ years of applicable experience
• Expert knowledge and understanding in protein analytical method development for identification and quantitation, including physicochemical and MS-based methods
• Expert knowledge and understanding in native MS, top-down MS, and other MS-based methods including but not limited to intact and subunit MS, glycan profiling, and bottom-up MS
• Good knowledge and demonstrated ability working with large molecule separation methods including reversed-phased HPLC, analytical SEC, and CE-SDS
• Solid understanding of mass spectrometry operating principles, including ionization, ion transfer, gas-phase fragmentation, and mass analyzers
• Hands-on experience on high-resolution TOF and/or orbitrap mass analyzers, including routine maintenance and troubleshooting
• Working knowledge of protein chemistry, amino acid composition, primary structure, post-translational modifications, higher-order structure and protein-protein interactions
• Knowledge of cross-functional understanding related to drug development
• Excellent laboratory and productivity skills
• Excellent interpersonal skills with strong oral and written communication abilities
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Excellent problem solving and critical thinking skills
• Collaborative and highly motivated
• Detail oriented
• Ability to meet deadlines
• Good project management skills

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement advanced mass spectrometry methods applicable across modalities and development stages, with particular emphasis on native MS, top-down MS, and advanced structural characterization
• Lead, develop, and perform large molecule analytical and characterization assays, including identity testing by intact mass and/or subunit analysis, glycan profiling, primary structure and PTM analysis by peptide mapping, and other mass spectrometric techniques necessary to provide critical data for decision-making processes
• Provide fit-for-purpose characterizations for various discovery-stage programs such as pre-engineering and active engineering efforts
• Support Lead Optimization production activities through high-throughput intact mass analysis of stable pools and clones, providing molecular identity and early semi-quantitative N-glycan profiling as additional data for cell-line selection.
• Perform manual and automated sample injections acquire LC-MS data, analyze data, draft report and document experiment in ELN, support stakeholders including discovery biology, protein engineering and lead optimization
• Perform routine maintenance of HPLC and MS systems, prepare mobile phases, execute calibration and cleaning procedures, coordinate regular preventative maintenance troubleshooting under the supervision of team leaders
• Execute sample preparation workflows, such as buffer exchange, immunoprecipitation, reduction and alkylation, enzymatic digestion
• Manage sample receiving, testing and storage, maintain and track consumables including columns, buffer solutions, enzymes and chemicals
• Track and document assay performance
• Provides recommendations to improve process efficiency and research quality
• Present key research findings to cross-functional team members to guide project strategy
• Leverage literature, ICH/Regulatory guidance, and practical experience to perform this work and collaborate on CMC analytical development strategies
• Other duties as assigned

Benefits

• retirement savings plan (with company match)
• paid vacation, holiday and personal days
• paid caregiver/parental and medical leave
• health benefits to include medical, prescription drug, dental and vision coverage

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior