Principal Scientist - Connecticut Innovations : Job Details

Are you ready to join Connecticut Innovation's vibrant community of innovators? Connecticut Innovations (“CI”) is Connecticut's strategic venture capital arm, and we are passionate about serving our portfolio of 220+ companies across various industries, with strengths in life sciences, technology, and climate tech.

Come join one of our quickly growing portfolio companies, AbbraTech – Custom recombinant antibody discovery and development services!

AbbraTech Overview

Antibodies are produced in the body as the part of the immune system to target foreign invaders. The development of therapeutic antibodies is an important aspect of new drug discovery pipelines. The assessment of an antibody's developability - its suitability for large-scale production and therapeutic use - is a particularly important step in this process.

The increasing demand for targeted therapies and technological advancements are two of the major factors behind the rapid growth of the antibody production market.

Abbratech's EPIVOLVEsm technology provides a comprehensive custom recombinant antibody discovery and development services platform to support the antibody production market.

Connecticut Innovations and others are Investors in AbbraTech.

Why Work At AbbraTech?

• Antibodies are currently one of the most crucial tools for research projects exploring the functions of various proteins in cells.
• AbbraTech's technology platform enables partners access to rational antibody product development.
• AbbraTech has an experienced Board of Directors and Medical Advisory Board in place.

Senior/Principal Scientist – Biotherapeutics | Position Overview

Our teams are empowered and encouraged to follow their passions, pursue new ideas, and perform at their best in an inclusive and dynamic environment. We know that behind every scientific breakthrough, there is a deep infrastructure of talented people driving the life sciences industry and making it possible for scientists and clinicians to make new strides. We are dedicated to finding the very best person for every aspect of our work because the innovations and discoveries that we enable together will lead to better technologies, better treatments, and a better future.

We are seeking a Senior Scientist or Principal Scientist to join our Biotherapeutic team. This role focuses on in vitro characterization and pre-clinical drug development, contributing to the development of therapeutic antibodies. The ideal candidate will have a Ph.D. in a relevant scientific field with industry experience, with expertise in cell biology, immunology and molecular biology.

In Vitro Characterization

• Design, develop, and optimize in vitro assays to assess the biological activity, potency, and mechanism of action of therapeutic molecules.
• Conduct immunological assays including binding affinity, epitope mapping, and functional tests (ADCC, CDC, neutralization, ADC) to evaluate candidate molecules.

Pre-Clinical Drug Development

• Develop and support pre-clinical models, including in vivo studies, to drive IND-enabling experiments and regulatory submissions.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to assess pharmacokinetics (PK), pharmacodynamics (PD), and immunogenicity of lead candidates.
• Partner with Contract Research Organizations and collaborators to oversee in vitro/in vivo testing and ensure comprehensive antibody characterization.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Work closely with discovery and bioanalytical teams internally and externally to align on project timelines and objectives.
• Contribute to data analysis, interpretation, and communication in cross-functional meetings and external scientific forums.
• Support collaborations with external academic and industry partners for advanced therapeutic antibody research.

Documentation & Reporting

• Prepare detailed technical reports, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and regulatory documentation to support IND submissions.
• Present scientific findings at internal and external meetings, as well as contribute to publications, patents, and federal grants.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. or equivalent in cell biology, immunology, molecular biology, biochemistry, or a related discipline, with at least 2 years industrial experience in a related field.
• Strong background and broad knowledge of cell biology, immune oncology, and pharmacology.
• Proficiency in designing and execution on cellular biological, immunological and biochemical assays such as multi-color flow cytometry (FACS), ELISA, western blotting, IHC, ICC, and cell-based assays.
• Hands-on experience with primary cell culture (T cells/B cells), in vitro, in vivo, ex vivo models, and evaluating immune responses. Familiarity with pre-clinical development processes, including PK/PD studies and regulatory guidelines.
• Must be legally authorized to work in the U.S.A.

At AbbraTech, we are committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment where every individual feels valued, respected, and supported. We believe that diversity in backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences enriches our work and drives innovation. AbbraTech is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes applications from individuals of all backgrounds. We encourage candidates from underrepresented groups to apply and join us in our commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.