Scientist I, In Vitro Technologies - Discovery Biotherapeutics

AbbVie; Worcester (MA); On-site; USD 75,000 - 142,500; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Paid time off

Medical/dental/vision insurance

401(k)

Job summary

AbbVie in Worcester, MA is seeking a Scientist I to support biologics drug discovery. The role entails designing in vitro display technologies for lead antibody identification and collaborating on data generation for proof-of-concept.

The ideal candidate should have a BS or MS in Biology or a related field, with significant experience in molecular biology and strong communication skills. A comprehensive benefits package is offered, including health insurance and 401(k).

Qualifications

• 5+ years of experience for BS or 2+ years for MS in a relevant research environment.
• Strong analytical skills to document and report data.
• Ability to present findings effectively in group settings.

Responsibilities

• Design and execute in vitro display technologies for antibody identification.
• Collaborate to generate in vitro, cellular, and in vivo data packages.
• Support drug discovery and optimization.

Skills

Molecular biology skills

Familiarity with sequence analysis tools

Experience with biologics and antibodies

Bacterial cell culture

Understanding of protein structure and function

Communication skills

Organizational skills

MS Office Suite proficiency

Education

BS or MS in Biology or related field

Tools

Geneious

Prism

Sequencher

Job description

Scientist I, In Vitro Technologies - Discovery Biotherapeutics

• Full-time
• Salary Min: 75000
• Salary Max: 142500
• Workday Global Grade: 15
• Travel: Yes, 5% of the Time
• Compensation: USD 75000 - USD 142500 - yearly

About the role

Discovery Biotherapeutics and Genetic Medicine at AbbVie is seeking a highly motivated research scientist to join a dynamic team supporting biologics drug discovery and engineering. The successful candidate will be responsible for the design and execution of in vitro display technologies for lead antibody identification and optimization, and will collaborate to generate stage-gate appropriate in vitro, cellular, and in vivo data packages supporting proof-of-concept (PoC). This role leverages scientific expertise to develop and implement research supporting the discovery, optimization, and mechanistic understanding of the molecular pharmacology of therapeutic molecules across Therapeutic Areas. The ideal candidate should be able to analyze, document, and report data effectively, and possess excellent communication skills with comfort presenting in group settings.

Education: BS or MS in Biology or a related field with typically 5+ years of experience (BS) or 2+ years of experience (MS) in a pharmaceutical and/or relevant research environment.

Required Skills & Experience

• Strong molecular biology skills (e.g., molecular cloning)
• Familiarity with sequence analysis tools (e.g., Geneious, Genedata, PipeBio)
• Experience with biologics, antibodies, antibody fragments, and mimetics
• Experience with bacterial cell culture
• Solid understanding of protein structure and function
• Excellent oral and written communication skills
• Ability to engage internal and external scientific leaders in collaborative research
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously
• Team player who thrives in a fast-paced, multi-disciplinary environment
• Ability to adapt to rapid changes in project priorities and timelines
• Proficiency with MS Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word)

Preferred Skills & Experience

• Hands‑on experience with in vitro antibody discovery display technologies (e.g., phage display, yeast display)
• Direct experience with binding assays (e.g., ELISA, flow cytometry)
• Experience in antibody engineering and optimization (e.g., affinity modulation, liability engineering, humanization)
• Experience with antibody library design and construction
• Experience in mammalian cell culture
• Experience with automation of biologics discovery processes
• Proficiency with Prism, Geneious, Sequencher, and/or Genedata
• Familiarity with computational approaches and an ability to work independently and in partnership with AI/ML and Digital Transformation teams to amplify in vitro technology workflows and contribute to AbbVie's AI/ML infrastructure

Benefits: We offer a comprehensive package of benefits including paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick), medical/dental/vision insurance and 401(k) to eligible employees.

AbbVie is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to operating with integrity, driving innovation, transforming lives and serving our community. Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled.

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