Senior Scientist, CHO Cell Line Development

AbbVie; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 97,000 - 184,000; Full time

Job summary

AbbVie in San Francisco, CA is seeking a Senior Scientist I to join the Cell Line Development (CLD) team. The role focuses on expression-optimization of CHO cells for recombinant antibodies and complex biologics, spanning vector design, host cell engineering, transfection, and clone-generation with data-driven, independent execution.

The successful candidate will apply deep molecular biology knowledge, read widely, design and test multiple vector constructs, and collaborate across analytical,

Qualifications

• BS with 10+ years OR MS with 8+ years in molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, or related field.
• Ability to read literature, synthesize ideas, and design proper experimental controls.
• Independently analyze data, draw conclusions, and communicate findings to a broad audience.
• Proficiency with designing vector improvements to increase recombinant antibody expression in CHO cells.
• Proficiency with DNA vector design and sequence alignment tools (e.g., Geneious Prime).

Responsibilities

• Conceive designs to investigate CHO expression improvements across vector and host cell.
• Design and test dozens of vector constructs in recombinant stable CHO lines for increased mAb titer; conduct transfections and clone characterization.
• Perform transfections, aseptic CHO culture, DNA copy-number analysis, RT-qPCR, and mAb titer measurements.
• Operate core CLD instrumentation (Octet, ViCell, CloneSelect Imager, Beacon) and maintain equipment.
• Collaborate with cell culture, analytics, purification, and bioinformatics teams to meet timelines and maintain data integrity.

Skills

Molecular biology

Cell biology

Biochemistry

Data analysis

Experimental design

Transfection

Flow cytometry

CRISPR/Cas

Education

BS in molecular biology

MS in molecular biology

PhD in related field

Tools

Geneious Prime

Octet

ViCell

CloneSelect Imager

Beacon

Job description

AbbVie in San Francisco, CA is seeking a Senior Scientist I to join the Cell Line Development (CLD) team. The role focuses on expression-optimization of CHO cells for recombinant antibodies and complex biologics, spanning vector design, host cell engineering, transfection, and clone-generation with data-driven, independent execution.

The successful candidate will apply deep molecular biology knowledge, read widely, design and test multiple vector constructs, and collaborate across analytical,