Scientist II, Cell and Functional Biology

About AbbVie

AbbVie's mission is to discover and deliver innovative medicines and solutions that solve serious health issues today and address the medical challenges of tomorrow. We strive to have a remarkable impact on people's lives across several key therapeutic areas including immunology, oncology and neuroscience - and products and services in our Allergan Aesthetics portfolio. For more information about AbbVie, please visit us at www.abbvie.com. Follow @abbvie on LinkedIn, Facebook, Instagram, X and YouTube.

Discovery Biotherapeutics and Genetic Medicine (BGM) at AbbVie is seeking a highly motivated research scientist to join the Cell and Functional Biology group at the Cambridge Research Center (CRC). Located in Cambridge, MA, the CRC is a uniquely collaborative environment where BGM, Immunology, Neuroscience, and Genomic Research Center teams work side by side.

In this role, you will be responsible for the conceptualization and execution of cell- and protein-based functional characterization assays for lead antibody identification and optimization. You will also collaborate to generate stage-gate-appropriate in vitro, cellular, and in vivo data packages supporting Proof of Concept (PoC) for Neuroscience and other therapeutic area programs.

The ideal candidate brings strong experience with cell-based assays, cell culture, and antibody screening, as well as significant expertise in flow cytometry, fluorescence-based assays, and imaging. Familiarity with high-throughput screening and multi-specific antibodies is highly valued. The successful applicant will be able to analyze, document, and present data effectively, and will possess excellent communication skills and comfort working in cross-functional teams.

Job Responsibilities:

• Support the development and implementation of cell-based fluorescent assays to enable function-first antibody screening across multiple therapeutic areas and drug discovery stages.
• Design, optimize, and validate assay protocols, ensuring robustness and reproducibility across projects.
• Analyze and interpret complex datasets, providing insights and recommendations for next steps in research projects.
• Stay current with technological advancements in cell-based assays, fluorescence applications, and imaging techniques to support the expansion of function-first assay design.
• Demonstrate scientific excellence through dedicated contributions to multiple projects in a fast-paced, multidisciplinary environment.
• Generate high-quality experimental data and perform scientific analysis to support multiple pipeline programs.
• Maintain detailed and accurate documentation of experimental procedures, results, and conclusions in electronic laboratory notebooks, technical reports, and presentations.
• Effectively communicate scientific findings and recommendations within project teams and cross-functional meetings.
• Continuously identify opportunities to improve laboratory methods, workflows, and scientific understanding.
• Maintain compliance with safety, quality, and good research practices while sustaining high laboratory productivity.

• BS in Biology, Molecular and Cellular Biology, Biomedical Engineering, Neuroscience, or a related scientific discipline with typically 7+ years of relevant industry experience, or MS with typically 5+ years of relevant industry experience.
• Demonstrated ability to independently execute experiments, analyze data, troubleshoot technical challenges, and communicate scientific findings.
• Knowledge of laboratory experimental design, data analysis, and scientific documentation practices.
• Proficiency in the conceptualization and implementation of in vitro cell-based assays.
• Experience with fluorescence-based assay development, with expertise in cell culture, flow cytometry, ELISA/microplate cytometry, and imaging platforms.
• Proficiency in data analysis and statistical software.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a team environment.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and deliver high-quality results within project timelines.
• Strong attention to detail, with well-developed organizational, documentation, and communication skills.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Experience with high-throughput screening, programming, and multi-specific antibodies.
• Experience with external collaborations and partnerships.

Applicable only to applicants applying to a position in any location with pay disclosure requirements under state or local law: ​

• The compensation range described below is the range of possible base pay compensation that the Company believes in good faith it will pay for this role at  the time of this posting based on the job grade for this position. Individual compensation paid within this range will depend on many factors  including  geographic location, and we may ultimately  pay more or less than the posted range. This range may be  modified in the future. ​
• We offer a comprehensive package of benefits including paid time off (vacation, holidays, sick), medical/dental/vision insurance and 401(k) to eligible employees.​
• This job is eligible to  participate in our short-term incentive programs.  

Note: No amount of pay is  considered to be wages or compensation until such amount is earned,  vested,  and determinable. The amount and availability of  any bonus, commission, incentive, benefits, or any other form of compensation and benefits that are allocable to a   particular employee  remains in the Company's sole and absolute discretion unless and until paid and may be  modified at the Company’s sole and absolute discretion,  consistent with applicable law. ​

AbbVie is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to operating with integrity, driving innovation, transforming lives and serving our community.  Equal Opportunity Employer/Veterans/Disabled. 

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