Associate Scientist, Protein Sciences

About Oxford Biotherapeutics:
 

Oxford Biotherapeutics is a clinical-stage biotechnology company focusing on the development of antibody therapeutics for the treatment of cancer. OBT’s OGAP-verify® platform is the world's largest, cancer specific, membrane protein library, directly measuring plasma membrane protein expression in patient tumors. OGAP is used to identify novel, highly tumor specific antigens for novel first-in-class ADC, T-cell Engager (TCE) and Chimeric Antigen Receptor (CAR-T) targets. Our lead asset, OBT076, is an Antibody Drug Conjugate (ADC) in Phase 1b clinical development. Our clinical and pre-clinical pipeline of novel biologics is balanced between internal programs, focused on ADCs and checkpoint regulators, and externally partnered programs with key innovators in oncology such as Roche, GSK and BMS.  

Job Description 

OBT is seeking an experienced, creative and motivated associate scientist to contribute to our company's Discovery Biologics Protein Science group. Work independently, and in a matrix, to lead the development of antigen antibodies against novel targets discovered by Oxford Biotherapeutics, headquartered in the UK. The successful candidate will be involved in multiple aspects of the production of recombinant proteins, monoclonal antibodies, multi-specific scaffolds, and novel protein modalities to enable all aspects of Early Discovery and Validation Research. 

Responsibilities will include, but are not limited to, the following: 

• Be a contributor to the discovery and development of antibody therapeutics for oncology and immune oncology for novel targets. 

• Support recombinant protein and bi- and multi-specific antibody discovery plans (immunogen design, assay development, screening, and functional characterization methods) 

• Support biological discovery through different platforms of protein and antibody discoveries. 

• Responsible for various target projects to execute protein production, purification and antibody discovery/optimization in various platforms. Specifically, Produce and purify novel and logic-gated alternative format antibodies using mammalian expression systems utilizing an assortment of molecular biology & biochemical techniques (i.e. AKTA systems and other chromatographic columns). 

• Generate target over-expressing cell lines for antibody discovery work. 

• Develop strategies to express, purify, and analyze proteins for novel tumor targets expressed in mammalian cells. 

• Perform purification using AKTA/HPLC systems and maintain equipment. 

• Conduct antibody characterization of antibodies including binding affinity and binding kinetics through Octet/Biacore, epitope binning/mapping, and functional assays. 

• Troubleshoot experimental issues with guidance; contribute to process and assay transfers. 

• Mentor lower-level colleagues and assist in scientific optimization & development. 

• Analyze data, interpret results, identify problems, and develop trouble-shooting plans 

• Maintain accurate documentation and follow laboratory safety procedures. 

• Knowledge of the biologics drug discovery process and representation of the protein science function at project team meetings. 

• Compliances with data management, laboratory notebook policy, and laboratory safety. 

Please note the roles and responsibilities for the position include but are not limited to the above 

Required Qualifications and Skills: 

• PhD in biological sciences or a related field, including candidates who are completing or have recently completed their PhD, with demonstrated experience in relevant research areas; or MS with 5+ years; or BS with 8+ years of relevant experience in the biopharmaceutical industry or a closely related scientific discipline, preferably in a fast-paced biotech or startup environment. 

• Experience in molecular biology or/and biochemistry, including gene manipulation, subcloning, expression vector modifications, and protein expressions in HEK & CHO cell systems 

• Extensive experience in human protein and antibody purification techniques, including affinity chromatography, Mixed mode chromatography, Hydrophobic Interaction
  Chromatography (HIC), Ion Exchange Chromatography (IEX), and Size Exclusion Chromatography (SEC). Proficiency in operating and troubleshooting modern chromatography hardware and software, such as Cytiva AKTA systems and Agilent HPLC and UPLC. 

Preferred Qualifications and Skills: 

• Experience in developing and optimizing recombinant proteins and bi- and multi-specific antibody formats across multiple parameters. 

• Antibody drug discovery experience for immune oncology in biopharmaceutical industry is a plus. 

• Ability to independently manage projects and deliver results on stringent timelines with high quality is plus 

One of our top priorities is to maintain the health and wellbeing of our employees and their families. To achieve this goal, we offer comprehensive benefits. 

Benefits Offered: 

• Medical, dental and vision insurance for employee and dependents 

• FSA (Flexible Spending Account) 

• STD, LTD, Basic Life and AD&D Insurance, Supplemental Life  

• 401(k) Plan 

• 120 hours of Paid Time Off 

• 5 sick days per year 

• 11 holidays 

• Employee Referral Bonus Program 

• Annual bonus program 

• New hire stock options 

Equal Opportunities Statement 

OBT is an equal opportunity employer and prohibits unlawful discrimination based on race, color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin or ancestry, age, disability, marital status, and veteran status. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment. One of our top priorities is to maintain the health and wellbeing of our employees and their families. To achieve this goal, we offer comprehensive benefits