The posting
Scientist II, BioConjugation
About Astellas
Astellas is a global life sciences company committed to turning innovative science into VALUE for patients. We provide transformative therapies in disease areas that include oncology, ophthalmology, urology, immunology and women's health. Through our research and development programs, we are pioneering new healthcare solutions for diseases with high unmet medical need. Learn more at Astellas.com.
Are you driven to make a real difference in the lives of patients?
We're seeking passionate individuals who thrive in dynamic environments, embrace new ideas, and aren't afraid to take intelligent risks. People who act with unwavering integrity and are deeply committed to making a tangible impact.
Purpose & Scope
Astellas Oncology Research is seeking a highly motivated scientist to join our Antibody-Drug Conjugates (ADC) Group. In this role, you will contribute to the design, conjugation, purification, and characterization of next-generation bioconjugate therapeutics, including antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), degrader-antibody conjugates (DACs), dual-payload ADCs, and other emerging modalities. Leveraging your expertise in antibody conjugation and bioconjugate development, you will play a key role in advancing Astellas' innovative oncology pipeline and helping deliver transformative therapies to patients.
Role and Responsibilities
- Conduct laboratory research, design and execute experiments, and apply technical expertise to achieve project objectives in a timely manner.
- Design, synthesize, purify, and characterize antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) and other bioconjugate modalities using a range of conjugation strategies, purification methods, and analytical techniques.
- Develop and optimize conjugation processes and workflows to support project needs across different stages of discovery and development.
- Identify, troubleshoot, and resolve technical challenges to ensure project timelines and deliverables are met.
- Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including Chemistry, Protein Science, Biology, Pharmacology, and ADME, to advance scientific discovery and project progression.
- Manage and prioritize multiple projects, monitor progress, and ensure the timely delivery of high-quality materials and data.
- Communicate scientific rationale, experimental results, and data interpretations clearly and effectively in team and project meetings.
- Serve as a subject matter expert (SME) in bioconjugation, representing the ADC Group in cross-functional discussions and presenting scientific findings to support decision-making and milestone achievement.
- Maintain accurate, complete, and well-organized laboratory records documenting experimental procedures, results, and conclusions, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and internal standards.
- Contribute to patent applications, scientific publications, technical reports, and other intellectual property initiatives.
Required Qualifications
- PhD. in Biochemistry, Chemistry, Chemical Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related field with 2+ years of relevant industry or postdoctoral experience in biologics research; or M.S. with 5+ years of relevant industry experience in biologics research.
- Extensive hands-on experience with a broad range of bioconjugation chemistries, including but not limited to lysine-, cysteine-, and enzyme-mediated conjugation approaches.
- Strong expertise in protein purification using chromatographic techniques, including size-exclusion (SEC), ion-exchange (IEX), and multimodal chromatography, with hands-on experience operating ÄKTA systems.
- Practical experience with analytical methods for protein and bioconjugate characterization, preferably including ADC-related modalities.
- Deep understanding of bioconjugation chemistry, including reaction mechanisms, conjugation site selection, process optimization, and the advantages and limitations of various conjugation strategies in the context of ADC development.
- Demonstrated ability to independently design, execute, and optimize conjugation, purification, and characterization workflows to support project objectives.
- Strong scientific problem-solving, critical thinking, and data interpretation skills, with a track record of identifying root causes and developing effective solutions to technical challenges.
- Excellent organizational and project management skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver high-quality results in a fast-paced environment.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to clearly present scientific findings and recommendations to multidisciplinary teams.
- Proven ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues across areas of shared expertise, demonstrating flexibility, openness to diverse perspectives, and adaptability in working styles to achieve team and organizational goals.
Preferred Qualifications
- Experience managing and overseeing external collaborations, including contract research organizations (CROs), to support project execution and delivery.
- Experience developing and implementing high-throughput conjugation workflows to enable efficient screening and optimization of bioconjugate candidates.
- Experience supporting ADC programs from early discovery through candidate selection and early CMC development.
- Hands-on experience with tangential flow filtration (TFF) for protein and ADC concentration, buffer exchange, and process development.
- Experience designing, developing, and optimizing dual-payload ADC conjugation strategies and manufacturing processes.
- Knowledge of formulation development principles and stability considerations for ADCs and other bioconjugate modalities.
- Experience in oncology drug discovery and development, with an understanding of cancer biology and therapeutic mechanisms.
Location and Working Environment
- This position is based in SSF and will require on-site work.
- (OR) At Astellas we recognize the importance of work/life balance, and we are proud to offer a hybrid working solution allowing time to connect with colleagues at the office with the flexibility to also work from home. We believe this will optimize the most productive work environment for all employees to succeed and deliver. Hybrid work from certain locations may be permitted in accordance with Astellas’ Responsible Flexibility Guidelines.
What awaits you at Astellas?
- Global collaboration: Become part of a connected global business of like-minded life science leaders, all dedicated to improving patients' lives worldwide.
- Real-world patient impact: Contribute to transformative therapies that reach patients around the world, knowing your work makes a difference every day.
- Relentless Innovation: Join a company at the forefront of scientific breakthroughs, where you'll have the opportunity to shape the future of healthcare.
- A Culture of Growth: Chart your own course within a supportive environment that values your contributions, champions your development, and empowers you to pursue your passions.
Our Organizational Values and Behaviors
Values: Innovation, Integrity and Impact sit at the heart of what we do.
Behaviors: We come together as ‘One Astellas’, working with courage and a sense of urgency. We are outcome focused and consistently take accountability for our personal contribution.
Salary Range
$105,280-$150,400 (Final compensation will be determined based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to skills, experience and organizational equity considerations.)
Benefits:
- Medical, Dental and Vision Insurance
- Generous Paid Time Off options, including Vacation and Sick time, plus national holidays including year-end shut down
- 401(k) match and annual company contribution
- Company paid life insurance
- Annual Corporate Bonus and Quarterly Sales Incentive for eligible positions
- Long Term Incentive Plan for eligible positions
- Company fleet vehicle for eligible positions
- Referral bonus program
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