Technical Development Principal Scientist, Mass Spectrometry Characterization Lead

Roche • South San Francisco, CA

6d • $120,800 - $224,300

About The Position

Join Genentech’s global Analytical Development and Quality Control team to lead mass spectrometry characterization for biologic therapeutics from early development through commercialization. The role combines strategic leadership with hands-on laboratory expertise in a collaborative, multidisciplinary environment. The position drives analytical strategies, resolves complex analytical challenges, and guides cross-functional teams.

The role leads mass spectrometry characterization strategy and execution across development stages; designs, performs, and interprets complex LC-MS analyses; develops phase-appropriate methods and multi-attribute method strategies; and identifies, monitors, and quantifies critical quality attributes and post-translational modifications. It supports process development milestones including cell line selection, purification, formulation, stability, minor variant characterization, and structure-function elucidation.

The position also prepares filing-ready mass spectrometry characterization sections for global regulatory submissions, represents technical packages in regulatory interactions, collaborates with internal teams and external partners, and mentors scientific team members. Relocation benefits are available. The expected salary range for the South San Francisco, California primary location is $120,800–$224,300, with actual pay based on relevant factors. A discretionary annual bonus may be available. Benefits are referenced through a link in the posting.

Requirements

• Ph.D. with 4–6+ years of relevant experience, or M.S./B.S. with 6–10+ years of relevant experience.
• Degree in Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related field.
• Deep expertise in LC-MS applied to characterization of proteins or related therapeutic modalities.
• Strong working knowledge of CMC drug development and regulatory filing processes, including IND and BLA.
• Excellent collaboration, organizational, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently as a lead and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
• Problem-solving ability, scientific curiosity, and commitment to technical quality and delivering results in a fast-paced environment.

Responsibilities

• Lead mass spectrometry characterization strategy and execution across biologic therapeutic development, from early development through commercial launch.
• Design, execute, and interpret complex LC-MS analyses to establish structural understanding of protein modalities and resolve technical root causes.
• Develop and implement phase-appropriate mass spectrometry methods and advanced multi-attribute method strategies.
• Identify, monitor, and quantify critical quality attributes and post-translational modifications.
• Support process development milestones, including cell line selection, purification, formulation, stability, minor variant characterization, and structure-function elucidation.
• Author filing-ready mass spectrometry characterization sections for global IND, BLA, and MAA regulatory submissions.
• Represent technical packages in regulatory interactions.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams, analytical leads, and external research and manufacturing partners to meet project milestones.
• Mentor scientific team members in mass spectrometry data interpretation and promote modern analytical capabilities and best practices.

Benefits

• Relocation benefits are available.
• A discretionary annual bonus may be available based on individual and company performance.
• The position qualifies for company benefits detailed through a link in the posting.

What This Job Offers

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