The Biotherapeutics and Genetics Medicine department within Discovery Research is seeking a highly motivated research scientist to join in the newly formed Genetic Medicine (GM) group at AbbVie Bioresearch Center (ABC). The ABC site, based in Worcester, MA, offers a unique setting where GM, Biologics drug discovery, development and manufacturing coexist in one location. Our team interacts with multidisciplinary groups across AbbVie focused on developing therapies for Virology, Immunology, Neurology, Ophthalmology and Oncology diseases.
As an integral member of the GM team this individual will be critical in activities related to mRNA-LNP development, optimization, and characterization, including LNP formulation, size, and surface potential measurement. The successful candidate is expected to have hands-on experience to evaluate newly designed LNP-mRNA modalities in different biological systems, with the aim of optimizing novel LNP formulation. As one of the key team members this individual will work with the manager and scientists across different functional groups to discover and develop next generation non-viral genetic medicine. You will be relied on as a technical contributor to assess the assigned tasks that involve direct application of your knowledge. The candidate will need to have excellent verbal and written skills and the ability to clearly present scientific concepts and results.
Key Responsibilities:
Help in developing, producing, and characterizing lipid based nucleic acid formulations with targeting moieties for innovative drug products to support multiple internal programs.
The incumbent should be familiar with analytical techniques including but not limited to DLS, zeta potential, SDS-PAGE, ELISA, SEC and Ribogreen assay.
Perform cell-based assays to evaluate mRNA-LNP based non-viral drug modalities.
Work closely with manager and cross-functional team members on multiple projects simultaneously to collect and analyze data on a per project basis.
Under manager’s supervision interpret and summarize experimental data. Present experimental results at meetings as needed.
Assist in ordering supplies from internal inventory and prepare reagents & other supplies necessary for formulation work.
Contribute to research that leads to peer-reviewed publications, reports, and external presentations.
Maintain laboratory electronic notebooks (ELN) in compliance with the Abbvie Laboratory Notebook Policy.
Stay updated and in compliance on all departmental and corporate training.
Key Qualifications:
BS or MS in Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Biological Engineering, or a related field with typically 3-7 years (BS) of experience or 0-5 year (MS) of experience.
0-2 years of nanoparticle design and characterization experience is a plus.
Working knowledge of related tools/software (Prism, FlowJo, FACSDiva etc.).
Laboratory hands-on experience with nanoparticle formulation and characterization and stability studies.
Self-motivated, hard-working, detail-oriented, resourceful, and able to work in a fast-paced team environment with demonstrated problem solving and perseverance skills.
Good Computer skills including word processing, Excel, PowerPoint and relevant scientific software.
Key Leadership Competencies:
Builds strong relationships with peers and cross functionally with partners to enable higher performance.
Learns fast, grasps the "essence “and can change course quickly where indicated.
Raises the bar and is never satisfied with the status quo.
Creates a learning environment, open to suggestions and experimentation for improvement.
Embraces the ideas of others, nurtures innovation and manages innovation to reality.
Strong interpersonal and communication skills with proven ability to work within a team environment.
Position will be filled at level commensurate with extent of education, experience, and accomplishment
Associate Scientist II, Scientist I, or Scientist II
AbbVie is committed to operating with integrity, driving innovation, transforming lives, serving our community, and embracing diversity and inclusion. It is AbbVie’s policy to employ qualified persons of the greatest ability without discrimination against any employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, religion, national origin, age, sex (including pregnancy), physical or mental disability, medical condition, genetic information, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, marital status, status as a protected veteran, or any other legally protected group status.