Principal Research Scientist II Full-time

Principal Scientist

The Early Biologics Excellence Center of Operation PDST Biological Development and Lunch organization at AbbVie is seeking a highly motivated Principal Scientist with a strong understanding of early and late stage Biological pipeline cell line development to lead the host cell engineering team at the AbbVie Bioresearch Center (ABC). The ABC site, based in Worcester, MA, offers a unique setting where Biologics drug discovery, development and manufacturing coexist in one location. In this position, the leader will be responsible for building the next generation mammalian host cell line leveraging advanced gene-editing technologies and System Biology knowledge to engineer CHO host cells for enhanced recombinant protein productivity, improved product quality, and streamlined process efficiency. Experience with cutting edge technologies such as CRISPR, Cas-Clover, NGS, Omics, bioinformatics, system Biology, AI/ML, HT automation and digitalization for cell line and process optimization are highly preferred.

Responsibilities:

• Develops and achieves discipline strategy in alignment with functional goals and key scientific objectives. Ensure the successful transition of AbbVie biological assets from Discovery into development.
• Executes and guides the development and genetic engineering alternative CHO host cell lines to improve all stages of pipeline development.
• Identify and implement advanced technologies strategically to support accelerated biological pipeline programs.
• Provide strategic, operational, and scientific guidance to the cell line engineering team.
• Conduct general laboratory research proficiently and independently, adapting and troubleshooting experimental designs and equipment to meet research requirements.
• Apply creative thinking to solve complex problems and promote new technologies, while effectively communicating mission and ideas to diverse audiences.
• The ideal candidate should be able to manage multiple projects across therapeutic disciplines within a dynamic and fast-paced team setting.
• Presents scientific concepts and results for functional scientific and non-scientific leaders as well as potential and existing partners. Maximize impact and value of expertise.
• Advances scientific expertise within function. Proactively advises and share knowledge and expert opinions with subordinates, peers, and senior management. Mentors and trains functional colleagues and assesses current and emerging business challenges enabling functional goal achievement.

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 related field.
• Interact well with diverse groups within function and maintain strong working relationships with internal and external collaborators.
• Broad experience in cell line development across diverse cell types, with a proven track record of contributing to drug candidate development and cell engineering.
• Proven ability to innovate with a history of new or improved methods or workflows.
• Demonstrates strong attention to quality and detail in organizational, documentation, and communication to work effectively within a collaborative work environment.

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.