Senior Biologist

Keenova Therapeutics plc; Hazelwood (MO); Hybrid; USD 120,000 - 180,000; Full time

Job summary

Keenova Therapeutics is seeking a highly motivated Senior Biologist to join the Global Technical Operations team in St. Louis, MO.

This role provides scientific leadership in development, validation, transfer, and application of biological assays to support quality control and lifecycle management of biotherapeutic products. You will design cell-based potency assays and protein/gene expression characterization methods, collaborate with cross‑functional groups, and ensure GMP compliance for

Qualifications

• PhD with 5+ years in pharmaceutical/biotech industry.
• MS with 7+ years; BS with 10+ years in relevant field.

Responsibilities

• Lead development, validation, and transfer of biological assays for biotherapeutics.
• Develop cell-based potency assays and protein characterization methods.
• Collaborate across functions; lead CROs and cross-functional teams.
• Ensure GMP compliance and regulatory documentation.

Skills

Cell biology

Mammalian cell culture

Protein characterization

Molecular biology techniques

GMP/regulatory knowledge

Team leadership

CRO management

Education

Ph.D. in Biology or related life science

MS or BS with industry experience

Tools

ProteinSimple Jess

Peggy Sue

LC-MS

Job description

Job Title Senior Biologist Requisition JR000015998 Senior Biologist (Open) Location St. Louis, MO Additional Locations Hazelwood, MO

Job Description Summary

Keenova Therapeutics is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Senior Biologist to join the Global Technical Operations team. This role will provide scientific leadership in the development, validation, transfer, and application of biological assays to support the characterization, quality control, and lifecycle management of biotherapeutic products and manufacturing materials. Responsibilities include development of cell-based potency assays and protein and gene expression characterization methods. The successful candidate will collaborate across functions to support assay modernization initiatives, product development, manufacturing investigations, and regulatory activities.

Job Description

Serve as a technical leader in cell and molecular biology, leading development, validation, and transfer of biological assays for biotherapeutic products. Design, develop, optimize, and validate cell-based potency assays, protein characterization methods, and molecular biology assays in accordance with current regulatory expectations. Apply expertise in protein and gene expression analysis, including mammalian cell culture, cell-based assays, PCR/qPCR, Western blotting, ELISA, flow cytometry, and related methodologies. Provide technical troubleshooting and scientific guidance to resolve complex analytical and biological challenges. Characterize proteins, peptides, raw materials, intermediates, drug substances, and drug products to support manufacturing, investigations, and product lifecycle management. Lead CROs and cross-functional teams to execute projects and achieve development objectives. Work with PM to establish project timelines, coordinate functional activities, and ensure delivery of milestones. Evaluate data, interpret results, and prepare technical reports suitable for internal stakeholders and regulatory submissions. Demonstrate excellent verbal and written communication skills. Responsible for clear communication in both written and oral forms to a broader audience. Collaborate effectively with Process Chemistry, Formulation, Analytical Development, Manufacturing, Quality, Operations, and Regulatory Affairs teams. Contribute to scientific innovation through implementation of new technologies, publications, intellectual property, and technical know-how. Ensure activities comply with applicable GMP requirements and regulatory guidelines. Maintain complete and accurate laboratory documentation and follow established safety practices.

DEPARTMENT SPECIFIC/NON-ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Working knowledge of FDA, ICH, and USP requirements applicable to biological assays and product characterization. Support preparation of technical summaries, reports, and documentation for regulatory submissions and health authority interactions. Contribute to development of regulatory strategies related to assay validation, comparability, and product characterization.

Qualifications

• Education: Ph.D. in Biology, Molecular Biology, Cell Biology, Biochemistry, Biotechnology, or a related life science discipline.


• M.S. or B.S. in a related scientific discipline may be considered with appropriate industry experience.


• Experience: Ph.D. with 5+ years of relevant pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry experience.


• MS with 7+ years of relevant pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry experience.


• B.S. with 10+ years of pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry experience.

Competencies

• Demonstrated expertise in development, qualification, validation, and transfer of cell-based potency assays and biological methods.


• Experience with mammalian cell culture, biotherapeutic product characterization, and development of cell-based potency assays is strongly preferred.


• Extensive hands-on experience with protein characterization techniques, including Western blotting, ELISA, and automated capillary immunoassay platforms such as ProteinSimple Jess or Peggy Sue.


• Experience with molecular biology methods including PCR, qPCR, RT-qPCR, and gene expression analysis.


• Experience supporting product investigations, process understanding, and manufacturing-related technical studies is highly desirable.


• Knowledge of GMP regulations, assay validation principles, and regulatory expectations for biological products.


• Experience with LC-MS, proteomics, and advanced protein characterization techniques is desirable.


• Strong scientific and technical expertise in cell and molecular biology.


• Demonstrated leadership and CRO management capabilities.


• Excellent analytical thinking and problem-solving skills.


• Strong written and verbal communication skills.


• Ability to work independently while effectively collaborating within cross-functional teams.


• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.


• Proficiency with Microsoft Office applications and scientific data analysis software.


• Ability to communicate effectively with technical teams, leadership, and external collaborators.

Organizational Relationship/Scope

Reports to Senior Director, Global Technical Operations

Working Conditions

Hybrid / Onsite

Keenova offers employees a Total Rewards package which includes competitive pay and benefits.

To learn more about our Total Rewards benefits please visit: Keenova Careers | Serve and Grow with Purpose | Keenova Disclaimer:

The above statements are intended to describe the general nature and level of work performed by employees assigned to this job. They are not intended to be an exhaustive list of all duties, responsibilities, and qualifications. Management reserves the right to change or modify such duties as required.

#LI-HYBRID #LI-GN1 At Keenova, we believe that no one should be alone in their pursuit of better health. This purpose drives us as we pair quality therapeutics with human support - showing up in big moments and small to help patients find comfort and confidence. We bring deep expertise and resolve to every therapeutic area we serve, including immunology, urology, men's health, orthopedics, critical care, and pediatric endocrinology. We work with patients, care partners, and physicians to help them navigate healthcare system complexity and access therapies that make a meaningful difference. We are Keenova - keen to solve, keen to serve. Learn more at www.keenova.com. At Keenova, we know that we contribute to something that matters because we make quality products that impact patient lives. Our dynamic work environment provides unique experiences for employees to grow and develop. Invest in your own career with Keenova and let’s do something dynamic together.

Keenova provides equal employment opportunities to applicants and employees without regard to race; color; gender; gender identity; sexual orientation; religions practices and observances; national origin; pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions; protected veteran status; disability; or any other category protected by law.

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