Senior Scientist, Bioconjugation Chemistry, ADC Technology
Planet Pharma · Boston, MA · 2 days ago
AnalystContract
About the role
We are seeking a highly motivated Senior Scientist to join our growing Chemistry and Bioconjugation Drug Discovery team. The ideal candidate will have expertise in bioconjugation chemistry, linker technologies, and conditional release, with a strong foundation in organic chemistry, chemical biology, or biochemistry. This hands-on laboratory role will support the design, synthesis, conjugation, purification, and characterization of next-generation antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) and other targeted biotherapeutics.
Responsibilities
- Design, execute, and optimize bioconjugation experiments to support discovery programs and platform development.
- Develop, optimize, and scale bioconjugation reactions, purification processes, and analytical characterization methods for ADCs and other conjugate biotherapeutics.
- Purify bioconjugates using techniques including size exclusion chromatography (SEC), affinity chromatography, ultrafiltration/diafiltration (UF/DF), and automated chromatography systems (e.g., AKTA FPLC).
- Characterize bioconjugates using analytical techniques including HPLC, LC-MS, gel electrophoresis, UV-Vis spectroscopy, and microfluidic platforms (e.g., CE-SDS and iCIEF).
- Interpret analytical data, troubleshoot reactions and purification processes, and recommend technical solutions to advance project objectives.
- Contribute to project strategy by providing scientific input and supporting the development of next-generation conjugation technologies.
- Present research findings and project updates to internal teams and external collaborators.
- Maintain accurate experimental records using electronic laboratory notebooks (ELNs) and contribute to technical reports and project documentation.
- Support laboratory operations by maintaining shared equipment, improving workflows, and promoting an organized, efficient laboratory environment.
Qualifications
- Ph.D. in Organic Chemistry, Medicinal Chemistry, Chemical Biology, Biochemistry, or a related field with a minimum of 5 years of relevant bioconjugation experience; or M.S. with 8+ years; or B.S. with 11+ years of relevant industry experience.
- Industry experience in bioconjugation and antibody drug conjugates within the biopharmaceutical or pharmaceutical industry.
- Demonstrated expertise in bioconjugation technologies, linker chemistry, and conditional release methodologies.
- Experience with preparative purification of proteins and bioconjugates using chromatographic techniques.
- Hands-on experience with analytical characterization methods, including HPLC, LC-MS, UV-Vis spectroscopy, electrophoresis, and related protein analytical techniques.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with the ability to troubleshoot experimental challenges and develop practical solutions.
- Scientific curiosity and enthusiasm for developing and implementing innovative bioconjugation technologies.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present scientific findings to multidisciplinary teams.
- Strong organizational and time-management skills with the ability to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment.
- Demonstrated ability to work independently while collaborating effectively within cross-functional teams.