Sr. Scientist, Protein Biophysical Characterization

About Firefly Bio:

Firefly specializes in Degrader Antibody Conjugates (DACs) which combine the unique strengths of ADCs with selective protein degraders. Our state-of-the-art platform results in highly specific delivery of degraders to target tissue. Our mission is to realize the full potential of ADCs by unlocking new classes of payloads. Our company culture is built on the values of Focus, Integrity, Respect and Energy.

Position Summary:

The Senior Scientist, Biophysical Protein Characterization, will build, optimize, and maintain a pipeline for antibody and ADC/DAC molecule optimization, validation, and the characterization of critical drug-like properties. A successful candidate will perform biophysical and developability assessments of candidate molecules. The position is lab-facing and on-site.

Responsibilities:

• Participate in antibody-based biologics discovery team to characterize antibodies, drug conjugates, and proteins for project-specific biophysical characteristics and critical drug-like properties

• Develop high-performing antibody and ADC/DAC pipeline to rapidly assess the developability of candidate molecules internally or with external partners

• Develop, implement, manage, and maintain state-of-the-art analytical and biophysical methods and evaluate new instruments and methods

• Prepare reports, upload data to databases, and implement automatic data capture

• Support preparation of regulatory submission documents

• Assist with sample preparation and manage sample inventory

• Participate in project teams and advise on instrument purchases

Requirements and Experience:

• Ph.D., M.S., or B.S. degree in a relevant scientific discipline (e.g. antibody/protein engineering, antibody discovery, bioanalytics) with appropriate industry work experience

• 5+ years of work experience in a research and development environment post-academic training

• Strong hands-on experience characterizing and analyzing the structure and function of proteins, antibodies, and drug conjugates with state-of-the-art biophysical and analytical methods

• Demonstrated expertise with SPR or BLI (affinity, binning, ligand blocking), Chromatographic methods (anSEC, HIC, RP/NP-HPLC), antibody developability assessments (thermostability, immunogenicity, FcRn and FCgRs binding, poly specificity, self-association and aggregation), stability (e.g. forced degradation, DSC)

• Experience with DLS/SLS, CE, ITC, MS, SEC-MALS, ELISA, Flow cytometry, and other analytical methods

• Experience with developability assessment of bioconjugates and biotherapeutics

• Strong knowledge of state-of-the-art instrumentation and maintenance

• Highly organized, diligent, and quality-focused with good computer and documentation skills

• Creativity and problem-solving skills paired with ability to excel in a highly collaborative environment

• Excellent oral and written communication and interpersonal skills

Additional Skills:

Experience with formulation and stability studies of biotherapeutics

Experience with developing analytical methods for CMC activities

Automation, LIMS, and bioinformatics

Benefits:

Every team member is essential in shaping Firefly Bio's culture and science and for our success. We offer competitive compensation packages including stock options and the opportunity to be part of ground-breaking research. Firefly Bio is an equal opportunity employer and will consider all applicants for employment. Firefly Biologics does not discriminate based on race, sex, color, religion, age, national origin, marital status, disability, veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other reason prohibited by law in provision of employment opportunities and benefits.