Mass Spectrometry Automation Engineer / Scientist II

Planet Pharma; South San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 69,000 - 83,000; Full time

Job summary

Discovery Biotherapeutics and Genetic Medicine (BGM) in the Bay Area is seeking a scientist to provide production and analytical characterization of biologics and biopharmaceuticals, including monoclonal antibodies, multispecifics, and related formats.

Your work will drive discovery and development by producing and interrogating protein attributes, building automation around instrument workflows, and collaborating across MS experts to advance programs.

Qualifications

• BS, MS, or PhD in chemistry, biochemistry, or related discipline with typically 7+ (BS), 5+ (MS), or 0+ (PhD) years of relevant experience.
• Hands-on expertise with Waters Xevo G2-XS QToF and MS workflows for protein characterization.
• Proficiency in data processing and bioinformatic workflows (e.g., Protein Metrics, Biosphere, Waters Connect, UNIFI).
• Experience with LC/MS analyses for monoclonal antibodies and biotherapeutics to verify sequence and post-translational modifications.

Responsibilities

• Perform mass spectrometry analyses for comprehensive characterization of biologics and biotherapeutics.
• Maintain LC/MS equipment, perform routine troubleshooting and calibration.
• Design and execute production of biotherapeutic proteins and coordinate with external CROs.
• Present experimental findings and progress to team and stakeholders.
• Collaborate with MS experts to assess and implement new bioanalytical tech.
• Work autonomously on method development with high productivity.

Skills

Mass spectrometry workflows

Python/R scripting

Data processing

Education

BS/MS/PhD in chemistry/biochemistry

Tools

Waters Xevo G2-XS QToF

Protein Metrics

Biosphere

Waters Connect/UNIFI

Job description

Target PR Range: 50-60/hr
*Depending onexperience

We are looking for a combination of software automation, analytical instrumentation, and wet-lab experience. The ideal candidate does not need to be an expert in every mass spec platform (experience with Waters Xevo LC/MS instruments and Protein Metrics analytics software is highly desirable) but should be able to understand instrument workflows and build reliable automation around them.

In particular, the hiring manager would like to hear a story or vignettes on how you merged your mass spectrometry expertise and understanding of antibody-based biologics to make critical decisions that drive programs forward.

Job description

Discovery Biotherapeutics and Genetic Medicine (BGM)is seekinga highly motivated scientist to join the Biotherapeutics group at the Bay Area (ABA) site in South San Francisco. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to various Discovery Research Therapeutic Areas (TAs) and projects by providing production and analytical characterization of biologics and biopharmaceutical products, such as monoclonal antibodies, multi-specifics, and other antibody-like formats. As part of our team, your work will drive the discovery and development ofnext generation biologics through production and interrogation of protein attributes.

Key responsibilities:

• Conduct mass spectrometry analyses for comprehensive characterization of biologics and biotherapeutics, including intact, reduced, and subunit approaches.
• Ensure the optimal functioning of LC/MS equipment through routine maintenance and effective troubleshooting.
• Design and execute production of biotherapeutic proteins to external CRO vendors, provide guidance on desired product quality attributes, then deliver the results of the production to our therapeutic partners.
• Contribute to team discussions, share valuable insights, and present experimental findings and progress updates to colleagues and stakeholders.
• Collaborates with MS experts across our Research & Development Division to assess and implement new bioanalytical technology.
• Independently and autonomously perform laboratory research and method development with minimal supervision, demonstrating high productivity and scientific initiative

Qualifications:

• BS, MS, or PhD in chemistry, biochemistry, or related discipline with typically 7+ (BS), 5+ (MS), or 0+ (PhD) years of relevant experience.
• Demonstrated hands-on expertise with various mass spectrometry platforms, including Waters Xevo G2-XS QToF, along with proficiency in MS workflows for protein characterization and the use of MS software for analyzing both routine and complex datasets.
• Proficiency in data processing and bioinformatic and statistical workflows (e.g., Protein Metrics, Biosphere, Waters Connect, UNIFI)

• Proven experience in the application of LC/MS analyses for interrogation of monoclonal antibodies, multispecific biologics, and protein therapeutics to provide sequence verification, post-translational modification, desired/expected chain pairing, and identity of DLP profile.
• Experience with coding/programming (e.g., Python, R, or relevant scripting languages) and in developing automated data workflows or solutions.
• Experience with chromatography and purification systems (protein A/G, AEX, SEC, mixed-mode with AKTA systems), and analytical instruments (Agilent HPLC, Waters UPLC and LC/MS, CE-SDS, SDS-PAGE) is a plus

• Goal-oriented team player with excellent verbal and written communication skills, a strong positive attitude, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary environment.