Senior Scientist I: Early Target Generation

ABBVIE; Cambridge (MA); On-site; USD 97,000 - 184,000; Full time

Job summary

AbbVie in Cambridge, MA is seeking a Senior Scientist I in the Exploratory Target Generation group to shape early program design and strategy for Immunology and Neuroscience targets.

The role focuses on expressing complex protein antigens, maintaining high-quality data, and partnering with Protein Sciences and CROs to advance candidates through discovery. Strong biochemistry expertise and collaboration across teams are essential for success.

Qualifications

• Ph.D., M.S. or B.S. in Biochemistry, Molecular and Cell Biology or related disciplines with typically 0-4 (Ph.D), 8-10 (M.S.), or 10-12+ (B.S.) years of experience
• Hands-on experience with mammalian suspension cell culture (HEK293 and CHO preferred) transient transfection, harvest and expression profiling is required
• Strong molecular biology skills and experience with sequencing tools and construct design is required (Geneious, Genedata)
• Experience using and interpreting standard protein analytical techniques (SDS-PAGE, Western blotting, BCA assays, endotoxin readings, size exclusion chromatography) is required
• Experience with a broad spectrum of protein purification techniques (affinity, ion exchange, size exclusion chromatography, etc), preferably using AKTA instrumentation is a plus
• Experience applying AI/ML workflows to improve laboratory workflows is desired
• Expertise in navigating and managing relationships with different protein vendors and CROs, ensuring alignment with project goals and timelines, is a plus
• Experience using GeneDataBiologics is a plus
• Strong Immunology and/or Neuroscience background is a plus
• Experience in protein expression from E. coli is a plus
• Proven research excellence demonstrated through a strong track record of publications, presentations and scientific achievements
• Demonstrated ability to actively participate and collaborate across cross-functional teams

Responsibilities

• Strategically engaged at the early exploratory stages of target selection within the Immunology and Neuroscience therapeutic areas
• Recombinant protein expression of antigens and cytokines supporting exploratory Immunology and Neuroscience therapeutic areas
• Innovatively design and produce soluble and membrane protein targets with enhanced stability for functional studies and antibody discovery
• Collaboration with Immunology and Neuroscience colleagues as representative of Protein Sciences, fostering the generation of innovative ideas and solutions
• Contribute to scientific excellence through dedication to multiple projects simultaneously, in a fast-paced, multi-disciplinary environment
• Demonstration of strong organizational and record keeping skills, ensuring timely delivery of requested material
• Clearly and effectively explain research findings and strategies, prioritizing transparency
• Collaborate with protein vendors and Contract Research Organizations (CROs) to secure, produce, and evaluate high-quality antigens
• Cultivate innovative problem-solving by generating original technical ideas and responding to scientific, regulatory, and competitive developments
• Maintain a strong knowledge of relevant publications pertaining to technological advancements, with an eye towards improving our workflows

Skills

Mammalian cell culture

HEK293

CHO cells

Transient transfection

Expression profiling

Molecular biology

Genedata

SDS-PAGE

Western blotting

Size exclusion chromatography

Education

Biochemistry, Molecular and Cell Biology

Tools

AKTA

Geneious

Job description

AbbVie in Cambridge, MA is seeking a Senior Scientist I in the Exploratory Target Generation group to shape early program design and strategy for Immunology and Neuroscience targets.

The role focuses on expressing complex protein antigens, maintaining high-quality data, and partnering with Protein Sciences and CROs to advance candidates through discovery. Strong biochemistry expertise and collaboration across teams are essential for success.