Scientist I/II, Formulation Development

Abzena; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 27,000 - 33,000; Full time

Job summary

Abzena is seeking a Scientist I/II level biochemist in Cambridge to join the formulation development team. The role involves designing experiments, performing analytical techniques, and supporting client-facing projects in a fast-paced environment.

Candidates should have a BSc or MSc in Biochemistry/Chemistry, strong laboratory skills, and relevant experience with protein analytics or formulation development. An interest in learning and adapting to new techniques is crucial.

Qualifications

• Strong laboratory skills necessary for formulation development.
• Experience in an industrial environment is beneficial.
• Experience with analytical characterization techniques like HPLC and CE.

Responsibilities

• Design and carry out routine and complex experiments.
• Perform complex techniques with supervision.
• Keep accurate records and document results.

Skills

Laboratory skills

Understanding of protein analytics

Analytical characterization techniques

Excellent communication skills

Education

BSc or MSc in Biochemistry/Chemistry

Tools

MS Office (Excel)

Chromeleon

Job description

We have a vacancy at Scientist I/II level for a biochemist in the formulation development team of the Analytics group based in Cambridge (UK). In this lab‑based role you will be working as part of a team on client‑facing projects and will have the opportunity to learn new techniques in a fast‑paced and supportive environment.

Abzena provides the most complete set of solutions in integrated early discovery to mid‑phase biotherapeutic and ADC drug development services in the pharmaceutical industry. Working with a varied range of customers from academic groups, small biotech companies, to big pharma, and on a diverse range of drug types from antibodies, fusion proteins and bioconjugates, Abzena supports the development and manufacture of better treatments for patients. Analytics at Abzena is primarily focussed on antibody and ADC characterisation, determination of critical quality attributes of biopharmaceuticals, developability studies, formulation development, and cellular proteomics.

The Formulation Team in Abzena Cambridge (UK) provides a wide range of formulation capabilities from early pre‑clinical stage (pre‑formulation screening) through to late‑stage studies such as clinical in‑use and container compatibility. Formulation of liquid biologics for intravenous or sub‑cutaneous injection is the primary focus, with strong expertise in high‑concentration drug products.

Ideally, you will have a BSc or an MSc in Biochemistry/Chemistry or related science discipline with strong laboratory skills. Relevant experience in an industrial or commercial environment would be beneficial. Necessary skills required include an understanding of protein analytics or practical research experience of analytical characterization techniques such as high‑pressure liquid chromatography (SE‑HPLC, IEX) and capillary electrophoresis (CE‑SDS, icIEF, CZE). As a confident IT user, you will be familiar with MS Office, particularly the use of Excel for data processing. Knowledge of specialist chromatography software such as Chromeleon would be useful. An appreciation of protein analytics and its application in biotherapeutic drug development or knowledge and practical experience of protein formulation development would also be an asset.

You will have an excellent level of attention to detail and be able to identify and analyse and resolve routine and complex problems. In addition, you will be able to work independently performing analytical assays to a high‑quality standard, and have good planning and organisational skills, whilst proactively keeping your line manager and team informed. You will demonstrate excellent communication skills both orally and in writing (e.g. preparing study plans and PowerPoint presentations) and interact with colleagues and clients in a professional manner.

Responsibilities

• To independently design and carry out routine and complex experiments as necessary
• To perform complex/novel techniques with supervision
• Perform routine interpretation of analytical results
• Keep accurate records and document experimental results in electronic lab notebooks
• To manage own work schedule to ensure tasks are met within the expected timeframe
• To analyse and interpret own data, and be responsible for the quality of own work
• Keep line manager and Group Director informed of work progress in a timely fashion
• To prepare data for and to contribute to the drafting of reports
• Prepare presentations and present results at internal meetings and client meetings
• To draft and contribute to Quality and Controlled documents
• Demonstrate excellent interpersonal and communication skills
• Proactive independent attitude with a positive nature
• A good team player with flexibility and willingness to adapt to change
• To undertake any other duties relevant to the position and level
• To supervise junior staff performing basic scientific techniques, as required
• To mentor junior staff and help to develop their technical skills

Qualifications

• Masters degree in life science subject, OR Lower level of qualification
• Excellent ICT skills, including specialist software as necessary
• In‑depth understanding of specialist area
• Can apply broad range of standard skills in own area
• Able to undertake evaluation of routine data
• Able to carry out repetitive manual techniques, eg pipetting

£27,000 - £33,000 a year

Range inclusive of Scientist I and Scientist II ranges

UK EEO: Abzena is committed to promoting equal opportunities in employment. All our employees and any job applicants will receive equal treatment regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marital or civil partner status, pregnancy or maternity, race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation (“Protected Characteristics”).