Scientist, Research Scientist

Summary:

We are seeking a highly motivated Scientist 2 to join our Antibody Discovery team. This role focuses on optimising a yeast‑display discovery platform, designing and constructing antibody libraries, conducting in‑vitro display campaigns, and collaborating with scientists across functional groups to identify and optimise therapeutic candidates for a wide range of targets and diseases.

• Perform yeast‑display‑based discovery screens to support new and ongoing therapeutic programs.
• Use next‑generation sequencing (NGS) – library generation, QC, sequencing, and data analysis – for hit selection.
• Execute display‑based lead optimisation, including design and construction of new display libraries, QC, and screening.
• Stay current with external advancements in relevant scientific fields and techniques.
• Evaluate scientific strategies, review data in real‑time, and adjust experiments as needed to ensure successful delivery of discovery campaigns.
• Coordinate research and development efforts with other departments to prioritise critical experiments.
• Present data in group and departmental meetings.
• Follow all laboratory safety guidelines, practices and protocols.
• Contribute to the design, execution, analysis, and reporting of experiments.
• Adhere to all department and company‑wide policies regarding conduct, performance, and procedures.
• Provide direction to direct and indirect reports as applicable, in accordance with the organization’s policies and procedures.
• Maintain daily laboratory operations, including equipment maintenance, inventories, consumables, reagents, and other supplies.
• Perform other duties as required.

• Ph.D. in a relevant scientific field with at least 3 years of post‑doctoral laboratory experience.
• Prior industry experience and collaboration on matrixed project teams are preferred.
• Strong hands‑on experience with yeast display, building naïve and/or immunised libraries.
• Experience with antibody lead optimisation (affinity, potency, develop ability).
• Expertise in molecular cloning and DNA analysis software (Geneious Prime, Se quencher or similar).
• Experience in NGS technology – library generation, QC, sequencing, and sequence analysis.
• Knowledge of AI/ML sequence analysis is helpful.
• Strong understanding of antibody structure, function, and engineering.
• Experience with high‑throughput screening (96‑ and 384‑well plates) and liquid‑handling automation is desirable.
• On‑site presence with ~80 % lab time and ~20 % non‑lab activities.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Significant analytical, assessment and problem‑solving skills.
• Proficiency writing protocols, maintaining detailed records, and using an electronic notebook (e.g., Benchling).
• Strong organisational and interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and professional competencies in oral and written communication.
• Ability to coach and mentor others through scientific and technical communication.
• Capacity to excel in a fast‑paced, goal‑oriented, multi‑project environment with adaptability to changing priorities.
• Ability to demonstrate competencies aligned with Xencor’s Leadership Competency Model.
• May contribute to authoring scientific documents as needed.

• Follow Environmental Health & Safety rules, procedures, and Biosafety Guidelines.
• Read and understand Safety Data Sheets.
• Be available for occasional weekend or evening work to conduct and complete experiments.
• Knowledge of biosafety techniques, aseptic/gowning practices, and laboratory safety standards.
• Work with biological and chemical hazards, infectious agents, blood borne pathogens, and animal allergens.
• Maintain a sterile environment and operate lab equipment (microscopes, centrifuges, spectrophotometers, balances, pH meters, electrophoresis equipment, freezers, incubators).

Expected base salary range: $118,000 – $150,000. The actual salary will be based on qualifications, experience, and competencies. Xencor offers a competitive total rewards package including 401(k) match, healthcare coverage, ESPP, annual bonus, and equity grant.

The company will provide reasonable accommodations (e.g., sign language interpreter) upon request during the application process. Qualified individuals with disabilities will be able to perform essential duties with suitable accommodations.

Xencor is an equal‑opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to age, race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender or gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by state or federal law.