Job Description

Position Summary
We are seeking an experienced and highly motivated Protein Purification Scientist to join our research and development team. The Scientist will be responsible for the purification, characterization, and optimization of native or recombinant proteins and other biologics using FPLC and advanced chromatography techniques.
The ideal candidate will have strong hands-on experience with ÄKTA/FPLC systems or other similar system, protein chromatography, process optimization, and protein characterization. The individual should be capable of independently designing and executing experiments, troubleshooting purification processes, analyzing data, and communicating results effectively.
Key Responsibilities
• Design, develop, and execute protein purification strategies for native or recombinant proteins, antibodies, and other biologic molecules.
• Perform protein purification using FPLC/ÄKTA systems or similar systems and optimize chromatography conditions.
• Develop and optimize purification processes using:
o Affinity chromatography
o Ion-exchange chromatography
o Size-exclusion chromatography
o Hydrophobic interaction chromatography
• Develop purification workflows from crude biological material through highly purified protein.
• Optimize purification parameters including buffer composition, pH, conductivity, salt concentration, flow rate, loading capacity, and gradient conditions.
• Analyze FPLC chromatograms and purification data to evaluate protein yield, purity, and recovery.
• Perform protein concentration, buffer exchange, and formulation using ultrafiltration/diafiltration and dialysis.
• Characterize purified proteins using SDS-PAGE, Western blot, UV absorbance, and other appropriate analytical techniques.
• Troubleshoot protein purification challenges including low recovery, aggregation, precipitation, poor resolution, and column performance.
• Develop, document, and improve laboratory protocols and standard operating procedures.
• Maintain accurate experimental records and prepare technical reports and presentations.
• Independently plan experiments, interpret results, and make recommendations for process improvement.
• Collaborate with assay development, and analytical teams.
• Support technology transfer, process scale-up, and development of robust purification processes as needed.
• Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure compliance with laboratory safety and quality procedures.

Required Qualifications
• MS or PhD in Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, Chemistry, or a related scientific discipline.
• 3+ years of hands-on experience in protein purification, preferably in an industry or biotechnology research environment.
• Demonstrated expertise with FPLC/ÄKTA chromatography systems or similar systems.
• Strong practical experience with affinity, ion-exchange, and size-exclusion chromatography.
• Experience with plasma protein purification and protein characterization.
• Strong understanding of protein chemistry, stability, aggregation, and purification principles.
• Experience analyzing chromatograms and interpreting purification data.
• Ability to independently design and execute experiments and troubleshoot technical problems.
• Strong scientific writing, documentation, communication, and data-analysis skills.

Preferred Qualifications
• PhD in Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Protein Chemistry, or a related field.
• Experience with human plasma or serum and other biological fluid protein purification.
• Experience with protein formulation and stability studies.
• Experience developing purification processes suitable for scale-up.
• Familiarity with GMP/GLP environments and quality systems.
• Experience developing SOPs and technical reports.