The Reagent Discovery group in Discovery Tech Futures, R&D, is looking for a motivated
Automated Antibody Engineering Scientist to join a team focused on developing high-throughput antibody workflows for the next generation of IDEXX diagnostics. The successful candidate will employ a broad range of molecular biology and biochemistry techniques - from gene design and cloning through antibody generation to provide validated reagents for downstream immunoassay development. The ideal candidate will thrive in a dynamic, multidisciplinary, and collaborative environment.
- You will need direct experience with molecular biology techniques, including primer design, gene synthesis, cloning strategies, and recombinant construct development for antibody expression.
- You have designed and executed workflows for antibody generation using recombinant antibody expression, display technologies, or a combination of platforms.
- You are comfortable working across the full bench workflow - from sequence analysis and construct design through transfection, expression, and basic protein characterization.
- You have worked cross-functionally with discovery and assay development teams, communicating experimental data clearly and aligning with stakeholders on project timelines.
- You are organized and detail-oriented, with the ability to advance multiple concurrent projects in a fast-paced environment.
In this role, you will:- Design and execute molecular biology workflows for antigen and antibody construct development, including primer design, PCR-based cloning, site-directed mutagenesis, and sequence verification.
- Develop and optimize recombinant expression constructs using mammalian, insect, or bacterial systems to support high-throughput antigen production.
- Devise and execute antibody generation workflows, including platform selection, immunization or display screening, and hit confirmation.
- Perform protein and antibody characterization utilizing standard biochemical techniques including SDS-PAGE, Western blot, ELISA, BLI, and analytical SEC.
- Develop and maintain automated liquid handling protocols to increase throughput and reproducibility across molecular biology and screening workflows.
- Collaborate with LC/MS and genomics teams to evaluate incoming biomarker targets and establish feasible antigen design and production strategies.
- Partner with downstream immunoassay development teams to communicate reagent performance data, define acceptance criteria, and meet delivery milestones.
- Generate clear, concise presentations and communicate progress updates to cross-functional audiences.
- Leverage published literature to identify novel molecular biology, antibody generation, and expression technologies applicable to the Reagent Discovery pipeline.
- Document experiments and maintain accurate electronic records. Adheres to appropriate safety procedures and regulatory requirements.
What You Need to Succeed:- A degree in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Immunology, or a related discipline Candidates should possess a Bachelor's with 5-7 years' of relevant laboratory experience, Master's with 3-5 years' experience of relevant laboratory experience.
- Strong hands-on experience with molecular biology techniques including primer design, PCR, restriction enzyme cloning, Gibson assembly, site-directed mutagenesis, and sequence analysis is a must.
- Experience with recombinant protein or antibody expression in mammalian, insect, or bacterial systems is a must.
- Familiarity with standard protein characterization techniques (e.g., SDS-PAGE, analytical SEC, Western blot, ELISA).
- Familiarity with laboratory automation platforms (e.g., Hamilton, Tecan, Biomek, or similar liquid handling systems).
- Experience in protein purification utilizing AKTA FPLC or similar instruments is a plus.
- Experience in antibody discovery platforms such as hybridoma technology, phage display, or single B-cell cloning is a plus.
- Background in immunoassay development or in vitro diagnostics is a plus.
- Working knowledge of binding assay technologies such as BLI or SPR is a plus.
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively toward a unifying set of goals.
- Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills are a must.
- Organizational skills and ability to plan and prioritize work across multiple projects are a must.
- Takes initiative and is accountable; detail-oriented and adaptable to shifting priorities.
What you can expect from us: - Salary range starting at $90,000 based on experience
- Opportunity for annual cash bonus
- Health / Dental / Vision Benefits Day-One
- 5% matching 401k
- Additional benefits including but not limited to financial support, pet insurance, mental health resources, volunteer paid days off, employee stock program, foundation donation matching, and much more
If you're looking for a role that'll challenge you, offer a variety of work and learning, while helping an amazing industry, we'd love to hear from you!
About the job location:If you're thinking about relocating for this role, here are a few things to know about living in Maine (often called "Vacationland"). The Westbrook, ME area provides great access to active downtown areas and the outdoors, with the coast and numerous mountains and hiking trails nearby. You'll also find a number of large companies like ours in the area, creating a vibrant work culture.
You can learn more on the Portland tourism website: https://www.visitportland.com/visit/resources/moving-to-maine/
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