Scientist I/II - Bioconjugation

MacroGenics, Inc.; Rockville (MD); On-site; USD 86,100 - 146,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Discretionary bonus

Equity incentives

Medical/dental/vision coverage

401(k) with employer match

Paid time off

Job summary

MacroGenics, Inc. in Rockville, MD is seeking a Scientist I/II to contribute to the design, synthesis, and optimization of antibody‑drug conjugates (ADCs) and related modalities. You will work on conjugation, purification, and analytical characterization from discovery through preclinical stages.

The role emphasizes collaboration with cross-functional teams, documentation, and progress toward clinical development, with a strong emphasis on quality and compliance in a fast-paced environment.

Qualifications

• MS or BS with direct relevant experience in bioconjugation or ADC/DAC development.
• Experience with purification and characterization of small molecules and bioconjugates.
• Strong knowledge of protein chemistry and antibody structure.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute antibody conjugation experiments using linker-payload technologies.
• Develop and optimize bioconjugation processes for ADCs/DACs.
• Synthesize and optimize novel linker-payload molecules for next-generation ADCs.
• Purify, characterize, and analyze synthesized molecules (HPLC, LC-MS, NMR).
• Evaluate DAR, aggregation, stability, and product quality.

Skills

Bioconjugation

Protein chemistry

Analytical techniques

Documentation

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

MS in Chemistry/Biochemistry/Chemical Biology

BS in Chemistry/Biochemistry/Chemical Biology

Tools

HPLC

LC-MS

UPLC

NMR

Job description

Summary of Position

The Scientist I/II will be an integral member of the Targeted Therapeutics Group focused on generating novel antibody-based therapies for the treatment of cancers. The successful candidate will contribute to the design, synthesis, characterization, and optimization of antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), degrader‑antibody conjugates (DACs), and other targeted therapeutic modalities. This position offers an exciting opportunity to work in a fast‑paced multidisciplinary environment advancing innovative cancer therapeutics from discovery through preclinical development, and into clinical development.

Responsibilities and Job Duties

• Design and execute antibody conjugation experiments using a variety of linker‑payload technologies.
• Develop and optimize bioconjugation processes for ADCs, DACs, and related targeted therapeutics.
• Synthesize, and optimize novel linker‑payload molecules, directly contributing to next‑generation ADC therapies.
• Purify, characterize, and analyze synthesized molecules using analytical techniques such as HPLC, FPLC, LC‑MS, and NMR.
• Evaluate conjugation efficiency, drug‑to‑antibody ratio (DAR), aggregation, stability, and product quality attributes.
• Contribute to troubleshooting, process optimization, and scale‑up activities.
• Collaborate closely with cross‑functional teams to advance ADC programs from early discovery through preclinical and clinical development stages.
• Author protocols, research reports, and intellectual property documents, while maintaining high‑quality electronic laboratory records.

Minimum Qualifications

Education & Experience

Scientist I

• M.S. degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related field with 0‑2 years of direct relevant experience.
• B.S. degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related field with 3‑5 years of direct relevant experience.

Scientist II

• M.S. degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related field with 2‑5 years of direct relevant experience.
• B.S. degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related field with 5‑8 years of direct relevant experience.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Hands‑on experience in bioconjugation, protein conjugation, or antibody‑drug conjugate development.
• Experience with purification and characterization techniques for both small molecules and bioconjugates.
• Strong understanding of protein chemistry, antibody structure, and conjugation methodologies.
• Experience operating analytical instruments such as HPLC, UPLC, LC‑MS, SEC, and HIC.
• Excellent organizational, documentation, and communication skills.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within cross‑functional teams.
• Detail‑oriented and well organized with strong written and verbal communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience developing ADCs, DACs, or other targeted therapeutic modalities.
• Familiarity with linker‑payload chemistry, site‑specific conjugation, and cysteine‑based conjugation strategies.
• Experience with analytical analysis of conjugates: DAR, aggregation, and stability of conjugates.
• Experience in synthetic organic chemistry, including the synthesis, purification, and characterization of small molecules and linker‑payloads.

Supervisory Responsibilities

• None

Additional Information

The annual rate of pay for this position ranges from $86,100 - $131,300 for Scientist I and $95,900 - $146,300 for Scientist II. For non‑exempt roles, and according to applicable regulations, there may be the possibility for overtime pay. This role is eligible for the Company's discretionary bonus and discretionary equity incentives. Eligible employees may participate in the Company's benefits programs, including medical / dental / vision / prescription coverage, employee wellness resources, 401(k) plan with employer match, access to an Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP), paid time off & paid parental leave benefits, and disability benefits. The annual pay rate range is described in good faith, and the Company believes is the range of possible compensation for this role at the time of this posting depending on the candidate's experience, qualifications, geographic location, and other factors permitted by law. The Company may ultimately pay more or less than the posted range, and this range may be modified in the future. No amount is considered to be wages or compensation until such amount is earned, vested, and determinable under the terms and conditions of the applicable policies and plans. The amount and availability of any bonus, commission, benefits, or any other form of compensation and benefits that are allocable to a particular employee remains in the Company's sole discretion unless and until paid and may be modified at the Company's sole discretion, consistent with the law.

Statement

MacroGenics is proud to be an equal opportunity employer. Employment selection and related decisions are made without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local law. We are committed to working with and providing reasonable accommodation to individuals with disabilities. If, because of a medical condition or disability, you need a reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, please email [e-mail] or call [phone] and/or 711 for TTD/TTY service.

Equal Opportunity Employer. This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights notice from the Department of Labor.