Principal Research Scientist I – Cell/Mol Bio Full-time NEW

Principal Research Scientist

Discovery Biotherapeutics and Genetic Medicine (BGM) at Abbvie is seeking a highly motivated Principal Research Scientist to join the Cell and Functional Biology group at the AbbVie Bioresearch Center (ABC) site based in Worcester, MA. This role will be responsible for the design and execution of screening strategies employed to advance promising biotherapeutics from early exploration through lead optimization. Close partnerships with cross-functional colleagues will be required to drive transformative ideas to the clinic. The ideal candidate should possess experience in large molecule screening strategy design including high throughput vitro cell-based assays, with strong experience in automated experimental and data handling workflows.

Job Responsibilities:

• Develop and optimize in vitro functional assays utilizing ready-to-use cell line platforms and diverse signaling pathways to rapidly transition early therapeutic concepts into enabled biotherapeutics discovery campaigns.
• Own screening funnel design and implementation for multiple biotherapeutic discovery programs; synthesize complex, multi-dimensional datasets into clear, actionable insights that inform go/no-go decisions and de-risk therapeutic candidates.
• Evaluate, pilot, and implement emerging cell line platforms, assay technologies, and laboratory automation solutions; stay at the forefront of industry trends in automated drug discovery to maintain competitive advantage.
• Foster strong cross-functional collaborations with therapeutic area partners to promote the generation of innovative ideas and solutions which support organizational objectives.
• Present and explain research findings and strategies clearly and effectively, preparing scientific reports, publications, and presentations for varied audiences.
• Demonstrate scientific excellence through dedication to multiple high-throughput projects in a fast-paced, multi-disciplinary environment; drive continuous improvement of automated workflows.

Qualifications:

• BS with 14+ years of experience or MS with 12+ years of experience or PhD +6 years of experience in Biology, Molecular and Cellular Biology, or another related field.
• Extensive hands-on experience in high-throughput cell-based screening and biotherapeutic discovery, including assay development using ready-to-use cell line platforms.
• Demonstrated proficiency in developing, optimizing, and executing high-throughput screening assays (cellular, immunoassays, functional readouts) at scale.
• Strong expertise with automated experimental platforms (robotics, liquid handlers, plate readers, imaging systems) and data management in high-throughput environments.
• Demonstrated ability to inspire and lead cross-functional research teams; proven track record managing complex, multi-site screening projects and effectively communicating with stakeholders.
• Proficiency with enterprise data capture and analysis solutions (GeneData, Dotmatics, Benchling, or equivalent) and statistical/bioinformatics approaches for large datasets.

Desirable:

• Direct experience implementing and managing Contract Research Organization (CRO) partnerships for high-throughput screening campaigns.
• Hands-on experience with integrated lab automation platforms and workflow orchestration software.
• Track record of driving assay miniaturization, multiplexing, or novel cell line integration strategies to enhance throughput and data quality.
• Experience with machine learning or predictive analytics applied to screening data.

Additional Information:

• The compensation range described below is the range of possible base pay compensation that the Company believes in good faith it will pay for this role at the time of this posting based on the job grade for this position. Individual compensation paid within this range will depend on many factors including geographic location, and we may ultimately pay more or less than the posted range. This range may be modified in the future.
• We offer a comprehensive package of benefits including paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick), medical/dental/vision insurance and 401(k) to eligible employees.
• This job is eligible to participate in our short-term incentive programs.

AbbVie is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to operating with integrity, driving innovation, transforming lives and serving our community. Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled.