HPLC Specialist, Scientist II, Biologics Drug Product Development

The Drug Product Development group within AbbVie is a global organization responsible for developing and characterizing drug product formulations and manufacturing processes for biologic therapeutics (antibodies, antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), neurotoxins, and novel biologic formats) from preclinical development through clinical proof of concept.

We have an exciting opportunity for an HPLC Specialist (Scientist I/II) to join our team at our Bay Area site in South San Francisco, CA. This role is an onsite role in a lab-based function. To be successful, candidates must enjoy and thrive in an onsite, highly collaborative lab environment with daily face-to-face cross functional interactions between scientists.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

HPLC/UPLC Subject Matter Expertise

• Serve as the department SME for HPLC/UPLC characterization of biologics, demonstrating advanced knowledge of reversed-phase, ion-exchange, size-exclusion, hydrophobic interaction, and other HPLC/UPLC modalities relevant to characterization of biologics.
• Lead advanced troubleshooting of HPLC/UPLC instrumentation (e.g., pumps, autosamplers, detectors, columns) and chromatographic methods.
• Be accountable and responsible for resolving instrument issues to minimize downtime and work in alignment with team to oversee preventive maintenance schedules and coordinate with instrument vendors and metrology teams to ensure instrument qualification and compliance.
• Support company initiatives to increase automation capabilities related to HPLC data collection, storage and overall data integrity; act as an Empower software superuser
• Develop and deliver HPLC training curricula, maintain SOPs and training materials, and serve as a technical resource and scientific consultant on HPLC-related matters.

Formulation & Biologics Drug Product Development

• Independently lead and execute drug product process development studies to support clinical studies, including formulation screening, in-use studies, and manufacturing process support.
• Generate robust scientific data packages to support IND/NDA/BLA regulatory submissions, CTD module documentation, and technical reports.
• Collaborate with cross-functional partners including Analytical Development, Drug substance, Regulatory Affairs, and Quality to advance programs through the development pipeline.
• Drive continuous improvement of formulation strategies and drug product processes, applying scientific rigor and innovation.

Scientific Contribution & Communication

• Independently analyze, interpret, and document experimental data in electronic lab notebooks (ELN) with clarity and completeness.
• Present scientific findings to project teams, management, and cross-functional stakeholders with confidence and scientific rigor.
• Contribute to technical reports, regulatory documents, SOPs, scientific publications, and patent applications as needed.
• Stay current with emerging trends and innovations in formulation science, analytical chemistry, and HPLC/UPLC technology; proactively apply learnings to internal programs.

Education

• Bachelor’s degree in Pharmaceutical Sciences, Chemistry, Biochemistry, Chemical Engineering, or a related discipline with typically 4-5 years (Scientist I) or 7+ years (Scientist II) of relevant industry experience Master’s degree in a related discipline with typically 2 years (Scientist I) or 5+ years (Scientist II) of relevant industry experience

Required Experience & Skills

• Deep, hands-on expertise with HPLC across multiple modalities (RP-HPLC, SEC, IEC, HIC, etc.) with a proven track record as an SME, including method development and troubleshooting capabilities

Demonstrated expertise in formulation development and drug product development for small molecules and/or biologics, including solid oral dosage forms, parenteral, or other delivery systems

• Proven ability to train and develop others on HPLC instrumentation and analytical methods
• Proficiency in scientific data analysis and statistical tools, especially chromatography data systems (e.g. Empower)
• Excellent technical writing skills with experience authoring reports, SOPs, and regulatory documents
• Ability to independently manage multiple projects with competing priorities

Applicable only to applicants applying to a position in any location with pay disclosure requirements under state or local law: ​

• 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.  Note: No amount of pay is  considered to be wages or compensation until such amount is earned,  vested,  and determinable. The amount and availability of  any bonus, commission, incentive, benefits, or any other form of compensation and benefits that are allocable to a   particular employee  remains in the Company's sole and absolute discretion unless and until paid and may be  modified at the Company’s sole and absolute discretion,  consistent with applicable law.

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.

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