Amgen Inc

Principal Scientist - Lead Discovery and Targeted Protein Degradation Biochemistry

Amgen Inc$140K — $189K *
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
Less than 5 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • PhD in Biochemistry or related field with 2 years of industry experience in drug discovery, or a Master's with 5 years, or a Bachelor's with 7 years.
  • Proven expertise in protein purification and assay development for difficult targets.
  • Extensive experience in protein expression in mammalian, insect, and microbial systems.
  • Strong background in biochemical and biophysical techniques for target engagement studies.
  • Expertise in protein engineering, including mutagenesis and expression optimization.
  • Hands-on experience with biochemical assays like TR-FRET/HTRF and fluorescence polarization.
  • Familiarity with targeted protein degradation (TPD) techniques.

Responsibilities

  • Lead protein expression and purification for drug discovery.
  • Develop biochemical and biophysical assays for hit identification and validation.
  • Serve as a scientific partner to cross-functional teams in drug discovery.
  • Lead and mentor a small team of scientists.
  • Contribute to strategy and communicate results to project teams.

Benefits

  • Comprehensive employee benefits package including medical, dental, and vision coverage.
  • Retirement and Savings Plan with generous contributions.
  • Annual bonus program and stock-based incentives.
  • Award-winning time-off plans.
  • Flexible work models available.
Full Job Description
Career Category
Scientific
Job Description
Principal Scientist - Lead Discovery and Targeted Protein Degradation Biochemistry

What you will do

Let's do this. Let's change the world. In this role, you will lead protein reagent generation and biochemical assay development to support challenging drug discovery campaigns, including induced proximity and targeted protein degradation (TPD) programs.

We are seeking an exceptional scientist with deep expertise in protein biochemistry and mechanistic assay development. The successful candidate will lead a small team and provide scientific leadership across drug discovery programs from hit identification through validation and optimization. Within LD-TPD, this role will develop and execute strategies for protein production, biochemical and biophysical assay development, and mechanistic characterization to support the discovery and advancement of novel small-molecule therapeutics.

The successful candidate will:
  • Lead protein expression, purification, and characterization strategies for challenging proteins to enable the discovery of novel small-molecule therapeutics.
  • Develop and implement biochemical and biophysical assays to support hit identification, validation, optimization, and mechanism-of-action studies.
  • Serve as a key scientific partner to cross-functional discovery teams, providing technical expertise across a growing portfolio of small-molecule therapeutics.
  • Lead and develop a small team of scientists, providing scientific direction and mentorship.
  • Contribute to scientific strategy and communicate findings to project teams and leadership as appropriate.


What we expect of you

We are all different, yet we all use our unique contributions to serve patients. The successful professional we seek is an exceptional scientist with these qualifications.

Basic Qualifications:
  • Doctorate degree (PhD) in Biochemistry, Chemical Biology, Structural Biology, Protein Engineering or a related field and 2 years of relevant industry experience in drug discovery OR
  • Master's degree and 5 years of relevant industry experience in drug discovery OR
  • Bachelor's degree and 7 years of relevant industry experience in drug discovery

Preferred Qualifications:
  • Proven expertise in protein purification and biochemical assay development for challenging targets.
  • Extensive experience in protein expression across mammalian, insect, and microbial systems.
  • Strong background in biochemical and biophysical approaches to interrogate target engagement, protein-protein interactions, and small molecule mechanism-of-action.
  • Expertise in protein engineering, including construct design, mutagenesis, and expression optimization to support biochemical and structural studies.
  • Hands-on experience developing and optimizing biochemical and biophysical assays, including TR-FRET/HTRF, fluorescence polarization (FP), AlphaLISA, and BLI/SPR-based approaches.
  • Familiarity with targeted protein degradation (TPD) and induced proximity modalities.
  • Track record of effective collaboration within cross-functional discovery teams and managing priorities across multiple discovery programs.


What you can expect of us

As we work to develop treatments that take care of others, we also work to care for your professional and personal growth and well-being. From our competitive benefits to our collaborative culture, we'll support your journey every step of the way.

The expected annual salary range for this role in the U.S. (excluding Puerto Rico) is posted. Actual salary will vary based on several factors including but not limited to, relevant skills, experience, and qualifications.

In addition to the base salary, Amgen offers a Total Rewards Plan, based on eligibility, comprising of health and welfare plans for staff and eligible dependents, financial plans with opportunities to save towards retirement or other goals, work/life balance, and career development opportunities that may include:
  • A comprehensive employee benefits package, including a Retirement and Savings Plan with generous company contributions, group medical, dental and vision coverage, life and disability insurance, and flexible spending accounts
  • A discretionary annual bonus program, or for field sales representatives, a sales-based incentive plan
  • Stock-based long-term incentives
  • Award-winning time-off plans
  • Flexible work models where possible. Refer to the Work Location Type in the job posting to see if this applies.
Apply now and make a lasting impact with the Amgen team.
careers.amgen.com

Salary Range
140,123.35USD -189,578.65 USD

About Amgen Inc

Amgen is a biotechnology company that develops and manufactures human therapeutics for various illnesses and diseases. The company is values-based and deeply rooted in science and innovation to transform new ideas and discoveries into medicines for patients with serious diseases. They offer products for treating illness in the areas of oncology/hematology, cardiovascular, inflammation, bone health, nephrology, and neuroscience.

Amgen Inc Careers

Join the dynamic team at Amgen Inc, a biotechnology pioneer dedicated to discovering, developing, and delivering innovative human therapeutics. At Amgen, we offer more than just job opportunities; we invite you to be part of a culture of leadership, diversity, and innovation.

Work You’ll Do

At Amgen Inc, you will collaborate with some of the brightest minds in the industry, engaging in work that brings real solutions to patients worldwide. Our commitment to your career growth is evident in our professional development and leadership training programs designed to nurture your potential.

Innovate and Lead

Amgen Inc stands at the forefront of biotech innovation. Our team is constantly pushing the boundaries of science and technology. By joining us, you will contribute to a legacy of medical breakthroughs that improve the lives of millions.

Be Part of a Great Team

Amgen’s inclusive culture and commitment to diversity are integral to our success. We believe in empowering our employees with the skills and networking opportunities they need to thrive. Our team’s collaboration is the key to developing groundbreaking solutions.

Future-Proof Your Career

Amgen Inc offers a variety of career paths, from research and development to marketing and sales, providing near-limitless opportunities for advancement. Whether you are looking for a full-time position, an internship, or a leadership role, Amgen has a place for you. Our robust benefits package supports the well-being of our employees and their families, contributing to a fulfilling work-life balance.

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Amgen Inc—Where Careers Grow

At Amgen Inc, we are committed to turning innovative science into value for patients. If you are passionate about joining a team that makes a difference, search Amgen jobs today and take the first step towards a fulfilling career.

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Learn more about Amgen Inc
Size
24,200 employees
Market Cap
$141.2 billion
Industry
Net Income
$7.2 billion
Founded
1980
5 Year Trend
+2.5%
Revenue
$25.4 billion
NASDAQ

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