Scientist II - Protein Biologics and Formulation Development

Scientist II - Protein Biologics Developability Screening and Formulation Development
Onsite - 381 Plantation Street, Worcester, MA
1 year contract (renewable)
Hourly Pay Rate: $50-53/hr

Orion Group is hiring a Scientist II to work with our global pharmaceutical client's Biologics Development group in Worcester, MA. The Biologics Preformulation Group is an integral part of the CMC Drug Product Development Organization.

The primary function of the Preformulation Group is to evaluate the physicochemical properties of discovery-stage biologic drug candidates, identify liabilities, and to help select lead candidates for further pipeline advancement.

Key Responsibilities:
* Conduct laboratory-based analytical biochemistry and formulation research activities with biologic drug candidates.
* Perform experiments to screen physicochemical properties of new biologic entities (antibodies, bispecific antibodies, antibody drug conjugates, fusion proteins, AAVs) and identify liabilities that could impact drug development.
* Execute experimental protocols, collect results, and perform data analysis independently.
* Maintain excellent documentation of all work including electronic lab notebook and protocols.
* Prepare and deliver concise scientific presentations of experimental results and assist in authoring detailed scientific technical reports.
* Stay current with the scientific literature and support new scientific initiatives.
* Oversee maintenance of key laboratory equipment and routine laboratory operations.
* Build strong relationships with other team members and across groups.
* Understand and adhere to corporate standards regarding code of conduct, safety, and GxP compliance.

Qualifications:
* BS or MS in Biochemistry, Chemistry (or equivalent, e.g., Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences) with 4+ (BS) or 2+ years (MS) biopharmaceutical industry experience preferred.
* Hands-on experience in protein biochemical and biophysical characterization, accelerated stability studies, developability assessment of diverse biologic formats (monoclonal antibodies, bispecific antibody formats, antibody drug conjugates, fusion proteins, AAVs, LNPs).
* Detailed knowledge of protein structure, protein purification, biophysical characterization, and formulation screening.
* Strong expertise in protein biophysical and biochemical characterization techniques, including size-exclusion, ion exchange and hydrophobic interaction chromatography, differential scanning calorimetry/fluorimetry, dynamic light scattering, UV-VIS and fluorescence spectroscopy, imaged capillary isoelectric focusing, capillary electrophoresis, particle and viscosity measurements.
* Experience in molecular biology, adeno-associated viruses (AAVs), lipid nanoparticles (LNPs) would be helpful but not essential. Must be willing and able to learn new technologies as needed.
* Mass spectrometry experience useful but not essential.
* Demonstrated track record of independent thinking, creativity, and scientific accomplishment.
* Highly responsible and self-motivated. Skills to plan and conduct experiments with high quality and timely deliverables.
* Team player with excellent collaboration and communication skills.

Top Skills needed:
* Protein bio-chemistry experience

Our role in supporting diversity and inclusion
As an international workforce business, we are committed to sourcing personnel that reflects the diversity and values of our client base but also that of Orion Group. We welcome the wide range of experiences and viewpoints that potential workers bring to our business and our clients, including those based on nationality, gender, culture, educational and professional backgrounds, race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity and expression, disability, and age differences, job classification and religion. In our inclusive workplace, regardless of your employment status as staff or contract, everyone is assured the right of equitable, fair and respectful treatment.