Sr. Manager, Protein Science

COMPANY:

At BioCryst, we are passionate about advancing novel therapeutics for patients with rare and serious diseases. Our structure-guided drug design process leads us to the discovery and development of novel small-molecule drugs. We integrate traditional biology and medicinal chemistry along with a wide array of advanced technologies to understand the three-dimensional structures of active sites of target enzymes. Our scientists then design molecular structures to create bespoke drugs for patients. We focus on therapeutic areas with either no available treatments or large unmet patient needs. BioCryst's US headquarters are located in Durham, North Carolina, our European headquarters in Dublin, Ireland and our Discovery Center of Excellence in Birmingham, Alabama. We are proud of our culture of engagement and accountability that rewards people for innovative thinking and achievement of key objectives. For more information, please visit the Company's website at www.biocryst.com.

JOB SUMMARY:

We are seeking a Sr. Manager, Protein Science to join discovery research at BioCryst. The successful candidate will have the proven capabilities to work effectively and independently across a broad spectrum of biological targets and therapeutic areas with a combination of solid technical skills in expression and purification of biologics like therapeutic antibodies. The candidate can independently conduct and manage protein expression and purification activities within the protein sciences group. The candidate will assist the biology group to develop biological assays for protein functional characterization, compound screening and other assay developments. The candidate can coordinate and collaborate with the other groups or departments within the company on research and development projects relevant to long term objectives and concerns of the company. He/She is also responsible for monitoring and managing protein inventory within protein science group.

ESSENTIAL DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES:

* Leading the scientific, strategic, and operational management of protein production activities within the Protein Sciences group.
* Provide strong knowledge base and hands-on expertise with state-of-the-art protein engineering techniques to develop a robust protein production pipeline of biotherapeutics including monoclonal antibodies, fusion proteins, and recombinant proteins for the treatment of rare diseases.
* Develop and optimize analytical methods for biologics characterization and functional assays.
* Design protein expression constructs and optimize protein expression strategies for biological targets and biotherapeutic molecules.
* Provide technical due diligence on new technology or target ideas for multiple ongoing projects.
* Conduct and manage protein expression and purification activities at small-scale and large-scale levels.
* Monitor and manage the protein inventory in protein science group.
* Maintain daily cell culture activities in protein science group.
* Develop and optimize analytical methods for biologics characterization, and screen compounds.
* Assist the protein science group in protocol development and related reports for preclinical studies.
* Participate in technology development within the biology department. Maintain broad knowledge of state-of-the-art principles and theories.
* Implement procedures for monitoring projects in house and with contract facilities to inform management of current project status.
* Manage and maintain Biosafety Containment II Area within the tissue culture facility.
* All other duties as assigned.

EXPERIENCE & QUALIFICATIONS:

* Ph.D. and 5 years relevant experience (or an equivalent combination of education and experience) in biophysics, biochemistry or molecular biology with a proven track record of publication.
* Experience in engineering, high-throughput expression and characterization of protein and antibody variants with sustained record of productivity and substantive scientific contributions as evidenced by high-impact publications, patent inventorship, and/or presentations.
* Experience managing cross-functional biologics discovery and development team and advancing therapeutic candidates.
* In-depth knowledge and working experience in protein engineer, protein expression and purification and protein functional characterization.
* Deep knowledge of molecular biology, protein chemistry, and cell biology.
* Well experienced in mammalian cell protein expression systems using suspension cell lines such as CHO and HEK293.
* Extensive experience of protein expression and purification using bioreactors or similar fermentation instruments. Experience in stable cell line development is a plus.
* Experience or deep knowledge in biophysical characterization of protein-protein and protein-small molecule interactions by SPR, BLI, ITC, DSF etc.
* Excellent written and verbal communication skills with the ability to effectively communicate at all levels within the organization.
* Demonstration of organizational and project management skills with flexibility in working with organizations and/or partners with different cultures, values, mindsets, and approaches.
* Detailed-oriented with meticulous oversight, coordination, and tracking abilities.
* Ability to work independently under limited supervision.
* Ability to invest time, as required, and expedites and/or completes assignments whenever necessary to meet corporate objectives.
* Ability to manage projects and/or teams.
* Ability to work in a challenging environment with frequent interruptions, changing priorities and deadlines.
* Must be able to lift 10 to 15 lbs (tanks, solutions, etc).

The statements in this position description are intended to describe the general nature and level of work being performed by people assigned to this classification. They are not intended to be construed as an exhaustive list of responsibilities, duties, and skills required of personnel so classified. The manager may assign additional responsibilities and assignments from time to time.

BioCryst is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to providing equal employment opportunities without regard to age, race, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, Veterans status, disability and/or other protected class characteristics. Additionally, BioCryst is committed to achieving its business objectives in compliance with all federal, state and local law.