Head of Protein Sciences & Discovery Innovation

SmartRecruiters, Inc.; North Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 161,000 - 305,000; Full time

Job summary

AbbVie in North Chicago seeks a Head of Protein Sciences to define and execute our strategy for high-quality protein reagents and target-enabling solutions across discovery programs.

The role leads a cross-functional team, partners with Biology, Screening, Structural Biology, and other functions, and reports to the Head of Target Enabling Technologies. Strategic, scientific, and operational excellence are essential.

Qualifications

• PhD in Biochemistry/Biophysics/Structural Biology.
• 10+ years in pharma/biotech with drug discovery experience.
• Led Protein Sciences or related function in a matrixed environment.
• Deep expertise in protein expression, purification, engineering, and characterization.
• Proven track record of enabling discovery programs against challenging targets.
• Understanding of protein requirements for screening technologies, biophysics, and structural biology.
• Strategic mindset balancing immediate deliverables and long-term tech development.
• Excellent leadership, communication, influencing and collaboration skills.

Responsibilities

• Define and execute a Protein Sciences strategy that maximizes impact across the discovery portfolio through efficient delivery of target-enabling proteins and scientific solutions.
• Accountable for performance and portfolio impact of the Protein Sciences function.
• Partner with cross-functional leaders to influence discovery strategies and allocate resources to high-value opportunities.
• Drive scientific innovation and adoption of emerging technologies, including AI/ML-enabled approaches and new production platforms.
• Manage project intake and functional resource planning to support the portfolio.
• Oversee external collaborations and CRO partnerships to accelerate delivery.
• Balance short-term needs with long-term capability building and technology investments.
• Build external awareness of emerging approaches and opportunities for collaboration.
• Provide scientific leadership and oversight to ensure high-quality reagents and data.

Skills

Leadership

Strategic thinking

Communication

Collaboration

Influencing

Education

PhD in Biochemistry/Biophysics/Structural Biology

Job description

AbbVie in North Chicago seeks a Head of Protein Sciences to define and execute our strategy for high-quality protein reagents and target-enabling solutions across discovery programs.

The role leads a cross-functional team, partners with Biology, Screening, Structural Biology, and other functions, and reports to the Head of Target Enabling Technologies. Strategic, scientific, and operational excellence are essential.