MacroGenics

Principal Scientist (Physicochemical Assay)

MacroGenics$144K — $220K *
Pharmaceuticals & Biotech
5 - 7 years of experience
Job Overview by Ladders

Qualifications

  • Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or related field with 6+ years of relevant industry experience, particularly in physicochemical method development.
  • Master's degree with 12+ years of related experience, or Bachelor's degree with 14+ years of industry experience in a similar role.
  • Minimum of 4 years of hands-on experience in physicochemical method development and 3 years in a supervisory role, demonstrating strong leadership capabilities.
  • Proficient in preparing analytical sections of INDs, BLAs, and other regulatory documents, with a solid understanding of regulatory expectations.
  • Strong analytical, troubleshooting, and root cause analysis skills for physicochemical assay performance, alongside meticulous attention to technical documentation.

Responsibilities

  • Lead and mentor a team in developing robust physicochemical assays for biopharmaceutical products.
  • Oversee the transfer of physicochemical methods to the Quality Control (QC) team and support method qualification.
  • Manage the Physicochemical team's daily activities, ensuring timely delivery of high-quality results.
  • Provide technical expertise and troubleshooting for analytical methods and instrumentation.
  • Communicate project timelines, risks, and progress effectively to stakeholders, promoting a proactive approach.
  • Optimize resource allocation within the Physicochemical team to align with corporate goals.
  • Author and review standard operating procedures (SOPs) and documentation for regulatory compliance.

Benefits

  • Medical, dental, vision, and prescription coverage options available.
  • 401(k) retirement plan with employer match contributions.
  • Access to an Employee Stock Purchase Plan (ESPP).
  • Paid time off and parental leave benefits.
  • Wellness resources and disability benefits.
Full Job Description
Summary of Position:

The Principal Scientist is a technical and strategic leader responsible for development, qualification, transfer, and lifecycle management of physicochemical assays (e.g. chromatography, electrophoresis), as well as managing sample testing with physicochemical assays, for biopharmaceutical products (monoclonal antibodies, bispecifics, and antibody-drug conjugates). This position is in a cross-functional, fast-paced, and collaborative environment, applying strong troubleshooting ability, scientific rigor, and a results-driven mindset to support programs from early development through commercialization. The role demands high accountability, proactive planning, and timely execution of deliverables. The Principal Scientist will supervise and mentor team members while serving as a subject matter expert in physicochemical assay development and testing.

Responsibilities and Job Duties:
  • Lead a team of scientists to develop phase-appropriate, fit-for-purpose and robust physicochemical assays (e.g., SEC, IEC, CE, cIEF, PS80, DAR, etc.) to support biologic product development and release.
  • Oversee physicochemical method development and transfer to the Quality Control (QC) team. Support method qualification and method validation at QC.
  • Manage day-to-day activities of the Physicochemical team, ensuring timely delivery of high-quality results.
  • Provide technical leadership and hands-on troubleshooting support on analytical methods and instruments.
  • Manage project timelines for physicochemical method development and sample testing, and proactively communicate risks, progress, and mitigation strategies to stakeholders.
  • Optimize resource allocation to align the Physicochemical team's operations with the company's goals and timelines.
  • Author and review SOPs, technical protocols and reports, and regulatory filings.
  • Oversee preventive maintenance service contracts of instruments to ensure optimal instrument performance.
  • Foster strong cross-functional communication and collaboration with other functions.
  • Drive adaptation of new technologies and data-driven approaches to enhance efficiency and throughput.
  • Foster a high-performance culture by coaching and mentoring scientists, promoting scientific excellence, accountability, and ownership.
  • Present findings and strategies at internal meetings, technical forums, and external conferences. Participate in industry consortia and align internal strategies with industry practice.

Qualifications

Education & Experience
  • PhD. in Biochemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Chemical Engineering, Pharmaceutical Sciences or related discipline with 6+ years of related industry experience, including 6+ years on physicochemical method development;

or
  • Master's degree with 12+ years of related industry experience;

or
  • Bachelor's degree with 14+ years of related industry experience
  • 4+ years hands-on experience in physicochemical method development.
  • 3+ years of people management experience with demonstrated ability to coach, develop and motivate high-performing teams
  • Prior experience in preparing analytical sections of IND, BLA and regulatory responses.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities
  • Experience in troubleshooting and root cause analysis on physicochemical assay performance and instruments, with a systematic, data-driven approach to resolving technical challenges
  • Familiarity with instruments and items used on physicochemical assays
  • Strong technical writing skills and attention to detail in documentation and data review
  • Experience in mentoring and developing scientific staff, promoting open communication and teamwork
  • Experience in logistic planning and using project management tools (MS Project, SmartSheet).
  • Solid understanding of CMC strategy, regulatory expectations, and phase appropriate analytical requirements
  • Proven success in delivering high-quality results on time, even under changing priorities and compressed timelines.
  • Demonstrated leadership and influence in cross-functional matrix environments

Preferred Qualifications
  • Knowledge in potency assays, residual impurity assays, and product characterization assays.
  • Knowledge in automation and high-throughput instruments.
  • Knowledge in Multi-Attribute Methods (MAMs).
  • Strong publication record and external scientific presence.
  • Experience in fostering partnership with clients of CDMO services.

Supervisory Responsibilities

Yes.

Additional Information

The annual rate of pay for this position ranges from $144,300 - $220,000. For non-exempt roles, and according to applicable regulations, there may be the possibility for overtime pay. This role is eligible for the Company's discretionary bonus and discretionary equity incentives. Eligible employees may participate in the Company's benefits programs, including medical / dental / vision / prescription coverage, employee wellness resources, 401(k) plan with employer match, access to an Employee Stock Purchase Plan, (ESPP), paid time off & paid parental leave benefits, and disability benefits.

The annual pay rate range is described in good faith, and the Company believes is the range of possible compensation for this role at the time of this posting depending on the candidate's experience, qualifications, geographic location, and other factors permitted by law. The Company may ultimately pay more or less than the posted range, and this range may be modified in the future. No amount is considered to be wages or compensation until such amount is earned, vested, and determinable under the terms and conditions of the applicable policies and plans. The amount and availability of any bonus, commission, benefits, or any other form of compensation and benefits that are allocable to a particular employee remains in the Company's sole discretion unless and until paid and may be modified at the Company's sole discretion, consistent with the law.

About MacroGenics

MacroGenics is a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company focused on discovering and developing innovative monoclonal antibody-based therapeutics for the treatment of cancer. The company's product candidates include margetuximab, flotetuzumab, and teplizumab. MacroGenics was founded in 2000 and is headquartered in Rockville, Maryland. The company has collaborations with various pharmaceutical companies, including Incyte, Zai Lab, and Janssen Biotech. MacroGenics has approximately 500 employees.
Learn more about MacroGenics
Size
427 employees
Market Cap
$343.1 million
Industry
Net Income
-$129.7 million
Founded
2000
5 Year Trend
-3.4%
Revenue
$104.8 million
NASDAQ

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