Biologist (Mass Spectrometry)

Axle is looking to add a driven, flexible, organized, and meticulous Biologist to our dynamic team. The Contractor(s) shall provide services in support of the overall functions of the Vaccine Production Propgram (VPP), Vaccine Research Center (VRC).

Technical Requirements — Scientist, Analytical Development

• Perform a range of analytical development activities in support of the characterization and quantification of biologic products, including vaccines, monoclonal antibodies, recombinant proteins, and other biologic modalities.

• Utilize mass spectrometry for characterization and quantification of biologic molecules in support of vaccine and other biologics development programs.

• Perform and support LC-MS–based analytical testing, including sample preparation, data acquisition, data analysis, interpretation, and documentation of results.

• Execute established analytical methods and contribute to the development, optimization, qualification, troubleshooting, and transfer of new or existing analytical methods

• Analyze and interpret experimental data using sound scientific judgment; identify trends, technical issues, and unexpected results and contribute to investigations and troubleshooting activities.

• Support the Bioseparations function within Analytical Development by performing electrophoresis-based analytical techniques for the separation and characterization of biologic molecules.

• Work independently on assigned laboratory activities while collaborating with senior scientists and other members of multidisciplinary project teams.

• Maintain accurate, complete, and detailed experimental records and prepare technical documentation, summaries, and presentations of analytical results.

• Effectively communicate experimental results, technical observations, and potential issues to project teams and participate in internal scientific and project meetings. 

• Support multiple development projects and effectively prioritize assigned laboratory activities to meet project timelines.

• Contribute to continuous improvement of analytical workflows and identify opportunities to improve assay performance, robustness, efficiency, and data quality.

• Work collaboratively across Analytical Development and with other functional groups within VPP to support project objectives.

Specific Qualifications

• Ph.D. in mass spectrometry, analytical chemistry, biochemistry, chemistry, pharmaceutical sciences, or a related scientific discipline with one (1) to two (2) years of relevant pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry experience applying mass spectrometry to characterize biomolecules and quantifying molecules of interest; OR Master's degree in a related scientific discipline with four (4) to five (5) years of relevant pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry experience.  

• Demonstrated hands-on experience with mass spectrometry and LC-MS–based analytical techniques for the analysis of biologic molecules.

• Experience with quantitative and/or qualitative analytical methods used for characterization of proteins, antibodies, vaccines, or other biologic products.

• Experience with electrophoresis-based analytical techniques for protein/biologic separation and characterization is preferred.

• Working knowledge of analytical method development, optimization, troubleshooting, and data interpretation.

• Demonstrated ability to work independently on assigned activities, exercise scientific judgment, troubleshoot experimental issues, and proactively communicate findings and challenges.

• Must be a self-starter and independent thinker with the ability to take ownership of assigned work while functioning effectively as part of a scientific team.

• Must be a team player who can effectively collaborate with scientists and members of cross-functional groups.

• Demonstrated ability to maintain accurate and detailed laboratory records and scientific documentation.

• Strong analytical, problem-solving, organizational, oral communication, and written communication skills.

• Ability to manage multiple assignments and priorities in a fast-paced research and development laboratory environment.

• Familiarity with computer software used for scientific data acquisition, analysis, visualization, documentation, and presentation.