Scientist I, In Vitro Biology at AbbVie — North Chicago, IL

We are seeking a highly motivated and accomplished in vitro biologist to join our Discovery Obesity organization. This scientist will contribute to discovery research efforts focused on supporting novel therapeutic approaches for obesity. This laboratory-based role will support in vitro assay execution, cell culture-based model development, compound evaluation, and proof-of-concept studies in a collaborative discovery environment. The successful candidate will collaborate closely with scientists across discovery biology and translational functions to generate high-quality data that inform program decisions.

Key Responsibilities

• Independently design, execute, and interpret critical in vitro experiments supporting discovery obesity programs, with an emphasis on cell-based assay systems.
• Maintain and perform routine work with primary cultures, recombinant cell lines, and other molecular pharmacology-relevant in vitro models.
• Support recombinant cell line generation, compound testing, assay development, and proof-of-concept studies through careful execution of experimental workflows.
• Lead assay optimization efforts, troubleshooting, and implementation of new or modified in vitro methods.
• Generate, organize, and analyze experimental data with a high degree of accuracy and reproducibility.
• Maintain detailed and compliant experimental records, observations, and study documentation.
• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional project teams to support program objectives and data interpretation.
• Adhere to applicable safety, quality, and data integrity standards.
• Bachelor's degree in Neuroscience, Biology, Pharmacology, Biochemistry, or a related scientific discipline with 5 or more years of experience; or an M.S. or equivalent degree with 2 or more years of experience in an academic, biotech, or pharmaceutical setting.
• Hands-on experience with receptor pharmacology-relevant readouts such as cell signaling assays, high-content imaging, viability assays, reporter assays, ELISA, qPCR, or similar techniques.
• Proficiency in data analysis and presentation using tools such as GraphPad Prism.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and commitment to high-quality data generation.
• Effective written and verbal communication skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with primary cell culture, recombinant cell systems, or other in vitro model platforms.
• Exposure to compound screening, assay development, or proof-of-concept studies in a discovery setting.
• Knowledge of metabolic disease biology and early drug discovery workflows.
• Familiarity with statistical analysis or data visualization tools.

Core Competencies

• Scientific rigor and experimental discipline
• Strong attention to detail and follow-through
• Curiosity, initiative, and problem-solving mindset
• Collaboration and adaptability
• Commitment to data quality, reproducibility, and compliance

• 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 roleat the time of this posting based on the job grade for this position. Individual compensation paid within this range will depend on manyfactors 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.