Associate Director - Protein Sciences
Company Overview
Our client is a stealth-mode biotechnology company developing next-generation antibody and protein therapeutics. With research teams in both the U.S. and China, the company is advancing multiple programs toward IND-enabling studies and is seeking a key scientific hire to help build its development organization from the ground up.
Position Summary
This individual will serve as a technical leader supporting antibody characterization, develop-ability assessment, protein sciences, and early CMC activities. The role combines hands-on scientific work, CRO/CDMO management, and IND-enabling development efforts.
The position will work closely with the CSO and have the opportunity to help build and lead a team as the company grows.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead characterization and develop-ability assessments of monoclonal antibodies, bispecific antibodies, multispecific antibodies, and other protein therapeutics.
- Perform protein expression and purification using mammalian expression systems (HEK293, Expi293, or similar).
- Execute and interpret analytical and biophysical studies including SEC-HPLC, CE-SDS, DLS, HIC, IEX, icIEF, DSF, nanoDSF, and DSC.
- Assess aggregation, stability, charge variants, fragmentation, solubility, and other critical quality attributes.
- Design and execute formulation and forced degradation studies.
- Troubleshoot develop ability challenges including low expression, aggregation, poor stability, and manufacturing liabilities.
- Integrate analytical, biophysical, and functional data to support candidate selection.
- Manage CROs, CDMOs, and analytical partners, including timelines, budgets, and deliverables.
- Support process development, tech transfer, analytical development, and manufacturing readiness activities.
- Contribute to pre-IND and IND CMC strategy, including Module 3 documentation.
- Collaborate closely with scientific teams in both the U.S. and China.
- Participate in frequent cross-functional meetings and occasional travel.
Qualifications
- PhD preferred (MS/BS considered with relevant experience) in Protein Chemistry, Biochemistry, Biophysics, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Molecular Biology, or related field.
- 5+ years (Senior Scientist), 8+ years (Associate Director), or 10+ years (Director) of industry experience.
- Strong experience with therapeutic antibodies and protein biologics.
- Experience with antibody characterization and develop ability assessments.
- Familiarity with bispecific, multispecific, or engineered antibody formats preferred.
- Experience supporting IND-enabling development and early CMC activities.
- Track record managing CROs and/or CDMOs.
- Comfortable working in a fast-paced startup environment.
- Authorization to work in the U.S. without sponsorship.
Preferred Qualifications
- IND submission or Module 3 experience.
- Autoimmune or immunology therapeutic experience.
- Mandarin language proficiency.
- Experience working with teams in China.
- Startup or early-stage biotech experience.
What They're Looking For
Must-Have
- Antibody/protein therapeutics experience
- Protein characterization & develop-ability expertise
- Early CMC or IND-support experience
- CRO/CDMO management
- Onsite in Menlo Park
Nice-to-Have
- Mandarin speaking
- Bispecific/multispecific antibody experience
If this sounds like you please don't hesitate to apply in, we are actively reviewing resumes!
FAQs
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