Scientist II, BioConjugation

Scientist II, Bio Conjugation

Astellas is a global life sciences company committed to turning innovative science into value for patients. We provide transformative therapies in disease areas that include oncology, ophthalmology, urology, immunology and women's health. Through our research and development programs, we are pioneering new healthcare solutions for diseases with high unmet medical need.

Are you driven to make a real difference in the lives of patients?

We're seeking passionate individuals who thrive in dynamic environments, embrace new ideas, and aren't afraid to take intelligent risks. People who act with unwavering integrity and are deeply committed to making a tangible impact.

Purpose & Scope

Astellas Oncology Research is seeking a highly motivated scientist to join our Antibody-Drug Conjugates (ADC) Group. In this role, you will contribute to the design, conjugation, purification, and characterization of next-generation bioconjugate therapeutics, including antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs), degrader-antibody conjugates (DACs), dual-payload ADCs, and other emerging modalities. Leveraging your expertise in antibody conjugation and bioconjugate development, you will play a key role in advancing Astellas' innovative oncology pipeline and helping deliver transformative therapies to patients.

Role and Responsibilities

• Conduct laboratory research, design and execute experiments, and apply technical expertise to achieve project objectives in a timely manner.
• Design, synthesize, purify, and characterize antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs) and other bioconjugate modalities using a range of conjugation strategies, purification methods, and analytical techniques.
• Develop and optimize conjugation processes and workflows to support project needs across different stages of discovery and development.
• Identify, troubleshoot, and resolve technical challenges to ensure project timelines and deliverables are met.
• Collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, including Chemistry, Protein Science, Biology, Pharmacology, and ADME, to advance scientific discovery and project progression.
• Manage and prioritize multiple projects, monitor progress, and ensure the timely delivery of high-quality materials and data.
• Communicate scientific rationale, experimental results, and data interpretations clearly and effectively in team and project meetings.
• Serve as a subject matter expert (SME) in bioconjugation, representing the ADC Group in cross-functional discussions and presenting scientific findings to support decision-making and milestone achievement.
• Maintain accurate, complete, and well-organized laboratory records documenting experimental procedures, results, and conclusions, ensuring compliance with regulatory requirements and internal standards.
• Contribute to patent applications, scientific publications, technical reports, and other intellectual property initiatives.

Required Qualifications

• PhD. in Biochemistry, Chemistry, Chemical Biology, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or a related field with 2+ years of relevant industry or postdoctoral experience in biologics research; or M.S. with 5+ years of relevant industry experience in biologics research.
• Extensive hands-on experience with a broad range of bioconjugation chemistries, including but not limited to lysine-, cysteine-, and enzyme-mediated conjugation approaches.
• Strong expertise in protein purification using chromatographic techniques, including size-exclusion (SEC), ion-exchange (IEX), and multimodal chromatography, with hands-on experience operating ÄKTA systems.
• Practical experience with analytical methods for protein and bioconjugate characterization, preferably including ADC-related modalities.
• Deep understanding of bioconjugation chemistry, including reaction mechanisms, conjugation site selection, process optimization, and the advantages and limitations of various conjugation strategies in the context of ADC development.
• Demonstrated ability to independently design, execute, and optimize conjugation, purification, and characterization workflows to support project objectives.
• Strong scientific problem-solving, critical thinking, and data interpretation skills,…