Scientist Analytical Development & Validation

Immunocore Holdings PLC; Oxford; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 45,000; Full time

Job summary

A pioneering biotechnology company in the UK is seeking an analytical development scientist to join their dynamic team. The role focuses on developing chromatography and electrophoresis methods for biopharmaceutical quality control. Candidates should possess substantial experience in protein analysis and be familiar with GMP practices, contributing to innovative solutions that meet high medical needs.

Qualifications

• 2+ years in biopharmaceutical analytical development.
• Hands-on experience with HPLC/UHPLC and electrophoretic methods.
• Competence in assay validation and GMP principles.

Responsibilities

• Develop and qualify chromatographic methods for biopharmaceutical products.
• Evaluate novel analytical techniques for platform development.
• Contribute to method transfer with CDMO partners.

Skills

HPLC/UHPLC expertise

Electrophoretic techniques

Assay qualification knowledge

Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP)

Team collaboration

Education

BSc. or MSc. in biochemistry, biotechnology or related discipline

PhD in related discipline

Job description

Immunocore (NASDAQ: IMCR) is a pioneering, commercial-stage T cell receptor biotechnology company whose purpose is to develop and commercialize a new generation of transformative medicines which address unmet patient needs in oncology, infectious diseases and autoimmune disease. Our leaders in R&D are internationally recognised as some of the biotech industry's most successful drug developers. We are creating not just an environment where great minds can interact but an innovation powerhouse answering the big questions.

Focused on delivering first-in-class biological therapies to patients, we have developed a highly innovative soluble TCR platform. Our ImmTAX molecules underpin a new generation of precision engineered drugs that harness the immune system to treat a broad spectrum of diseases with high unmet medical need, including oncology, infectious diseases and autoimmune diseases.

At Immunocore, we recognize that our employees are our greatest asset. We value the unique contributions each person brings to our team. By embracing Science, Trust, Respect, Integrity, Diversity, and Entrepreneurship (STRIDE), we create an environment where collaboration thrives, ideas flourish, and transformative changes happen. STRIDE represents more than just letters; it embodies our shared identity and drives our mission. We are dedicated to developing breakthrough therapies that transform patients' lives, advancing medicine, and supporting one another in these pursuits.

Immunocore is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. As such, we are committed to fostering an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected, and empowered. We encourage applications from individuals of all backgrounds, regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Successful applicants will join a dynamic team developing analytical methods to support Immunocore's expanding pipeline of biopharmaceuticals. The core focus will be development and transfer of chromatography and electrophoresis-based methods for lot release and stability testing of protein products. In addition, the role will involve providing analytical expertise to support program development within the company and at CDMO partners.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

* Developing and qualifying (ultra) high performance liquid chromatography (UHPLC) and gel / capillary electrophoresis methods that support stability, lot release and characterisation testing as part of biopharmaceutical product development.
* Evaluating novel analytical techniques to support platform development.
* Contributing to method transfer to contract development and manufacturing organizations (CDMO).
* Conducting and designing experimental investigations, with appropriate guidance from colleagues and managers.
* Contributing to preparation and review of study protocols and reports.
* Priorities: planning and working to agreed experiment deadlines, schedules and objectives; advising managers and colleagues of risks and deviations.
* Technical knowledge: demonstrating knowledge on one or more techniques and independently gaining wider scientific knowledge. Sharing acquired skills with colleagues.
* Laboratory records: ensuring that all records and information are up to date, on time and recorded to the correct standard. Proactively seeking guidance on policy if required.
* Laboratory equipment: undergoing training on the use of technical instruments; using equipment appropriately.
* Reporting: communicating and presenting research findings at meetings with colleagues
* Adhere to safe working practices in laboratories according to Immunocore EHS policies.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

Experience & knowledge

Essential
* A background in recombinant protein or antibody/biopharmaceutical analytical development or QC, with 2 or more years' experience gained in industry.
* Hands on expertise of HPLC/UHPLC (e.g. size exclusion, ion exchange, reverse phase, hydrophobic interaction) for analysis of proteins.
* Hands on expertise of electrophoretic (e.g. CE-SDS) methods for analysis of proteins.
* Familiar with principles of assay qualification/ validation i.e. robustness and suitability.
* Familiar with the principles of Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP).
* Recorded results in a concise and timely way, and in compliance with agreed standards.
* Learned about new practices through observation, self-learning and an enquiring mind.
* Worked and contributed actively in a diverse team environment

Desirable
* Experience of imaging capillary IEF (icIEF), Western blotting, mass spectrometry.
* Understanding of stability studies principles and interpretation thereof.
* Method development and transfer to or receipt from external parties.
* Presented results and scientific practices to internal teams.
* Understanding of analytical requirements to support materials for use in clinical trials

Education & qualifications

* Essential: BSc. Or MSc. in biochemistry, biotechnology or related discipline
* Desirable: PhD in related discipline