Role Summary
Scientist II or Senior Scientist, Targeted Proteomics responsible for developing and implementing targeted proteomics workflows to inform drug discovery and development decisions. The role includes collaborating cross-functionally to qualify assays, managing CRO relationships, performing and interpreting MS-based proteomics, and presenting results to internal teams and external collaborators.
Responsibilities
- Develop, optimize, and implement targeted proteomics analysis workflows, including automated enrichment strategies, to deliver precise, accurate, and sensitive protein measurements that inform drug discovery and development decisions.
- Collaborate cross-functionally to implement and qualify assays that drive pipeline decision-making.
- Communicate proactively with project teams and within the proteomics function to coordinate sample availability, align timelines, and ensure timely delivery of high-quality results.
- Manage and oversee activities at contract research organizations (CROs), including assay transfer, qualification, and performance monitoring, ensuring adherence to project specifications, timelines, and data quality standards.
- Perform targeted protein mass spectrometry (MS) assays using state-of-the-art LC-MS systems—including nano-LC and Orbitrap platforms—to determine pharmacodynamic (PD) effects, quantify biomarkers, and qualify assays for clinical studies.
- Prepare samples from a wide variety of biological matrices (cultured cells, tissues, plasma, biofluids) from both human and preclinical species using manual and automated bead-based workflows.
- Perform and interpret quantitative proteomics data analyses using software such as Skyline, MaxQuant, DIANN, and Spectronaut; generate clear, data-driven reports for cross-functional stakeholders.
- Maintain, qualify, and troubleshoot HPLC and MS instrument performance to ensure reliability and reproducibility.
- Present scientific results and strategic recommendations to internal project teams, senior leadership, and external collaborators in a clear, concise, and influential manner.
Qualifications
- Required: PhD in Biochemistry, Biology, Chemistry, or Chemical Biology with a minimum of 2 years of targeted, mass spectrometry–based proteomics experience in industry or startup biotech; or BS/MS with 8+ years of relevant experience.
- Preferred: Familiarity with regulatory filings (e.g., IND) and qualification of MS assays for clinical applications.
Skills
- Broad expertise in targeted proteomics, including development and deployment of highly multiplexed and sensitive PRM or MRM stable isotope–labeled peptide assays using DDA and DIA data.
- Development of immunoaffinity enrichment methods to enhance MS sensitivity.
- Optimization of protein recovery from complex biological matrices (cells, tissues, plasma, biofluids) and various sample formulations (fresh, frozen, FFPE) across preclinical species.
- Operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of nanoLC and Orbitrap MS instrumentation.
- Quantitative analysis and report generation using Skyline and related proteomics data tools.
- Demonstrated ability to independently analyze, interpret, and clearly communicate targeted proteomics data and conclusions to multidisciplinary teams.
- Proven success collaborating across functional areas and managing CRO relationships to deliver qualified assays that support drug discovery and clinical development.
- Strong organizational, problem-solving, and time-management skills with the ability to prioritize multiple projects to meet TPD drug discovery timelines.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex scientific concepts to both technical and non-technical audiences.
- Working knowledge of automated sample processing, including immunoaffinity capture MS assays, is a plus.
Education
- PhD in Biochemistry, Biology, Chemistry, or Chemical Biology with equivalent industry experience (2 years post-PhD) or BS/MS with 8+ years of relevant proteomics experience.