Senior Scientist – Antibody Engineering

At ATUM we are industrializing biotechnology from Genes to Proteins to Cell Lines.  ATUM’s tools and solutions are fueling the transformation of biology from a discovery science to a sustainable engineering discipline. By collaborating with our clients, ATUM develops innovative technologies and services to accelerate breakthroughs and move research & development further faster. Our focus on scientist-to-scientist problem solving creates long-term partnerships with our clients. For over 20 years we have been at the intersection of synthetic biology and machine learning and its application across a multitude of industries from pharmaceuticals to biocatalysis to food.

ATUM is looking for a Senior Scientist - Antibody Engineering in our Analytical department. This role is a full time position.

Position Overview

We are seeking an experienced and innovative Senior Scientist specializing in antibody engineering and binding assay development. This senior role requires expertise in antibody design and optimization, biophysical assay development using SPR (Surface Plasmon Resonance) and Bio-Layer Interferometry (Octet) platforms, and advanced data analysis. The successful candidate will combine strong technical depth with the ability to engage with customers, understand their project challenges, and deliver effective scientific solutions.

This role offers the opportunity to lead method development, implement cutting-edge antibody engineering strategies, and contribute to customer projects that drive therapeutic and diagnostic innovation.

Key Responsibilities

Antibody Engineering & Assay Development

• Design, engineer, and optimize antibodies to improve binding affinity, specificity, and developability.
• Develop and execute binding assays on SPR and Octet instruments, including method design, optimization, and validation.
• Interpret complex kinetic and affinity datasets, integrating results into project decision-making.
• Implement innovative approaches for antibody characterization and functional screening.

Customer Engagement & Scientific Solutions

• Act as a scientific liaison with clients, participating in meetings to understand project needs and challenges.
• Propose and design experimental plans tailored to client goals.
• Present complex data clearly and provide actionable scientific recommendations.
• Build strong relationships with customers by offering technical expertise and timely solutions.

Data Analysis & Reporting

• Apply advanced data analysis methods to extract meaningful insights from large and complex datasets.
• Compile, review, and present reports internally and externally, ensuring accuracy and clarity.
• Deliver clear and impactful presentations for both technical and non-technical audiences.

Leadership, Mentorship & Collaboration

• Mentor and train junior scientists in antibody engineering techniques and biophysical assay development.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with protein sciences, bioinformatics, and project management teams.
• Lead troubleshooting efforts and contribute to continuous improvement of workflows and methodologies.

Process Development & Innovation

• Drive R&D initiatives focused on novel antibody formats, binding assays, and high-throughput screening platforms.
• Evaluate and integrate new instrumentation or analytical technologies to expand capabilities.
• Contribute to SOP development, data quality standards, and scientific rigor across projects.

Qualifications

Education & Experience

• Ph.D. (preferred) or Master’s degree in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Immunology, or related discipline.
• 7+ years of experience in antibody engineering and characterization, with a proven track record in SPR and Octet assay development.

Skills & Abilities

• Expert knowledge of antibody structure-function relationships, engineering strategies, and binding assays.
• Hands-on expertise with SPR (Biacore or equivalent) and Octet BLI platforms for kinetic and affinity analysis.
• Strong ability to interpret and communicate complex datasets.
• Proven ability to troubleshoot experimental challenges and deliver innovative solutions.
• Excellent communication skills, with comfort engaging directly with customers and project stakeholders.
• Experience mentoring junior scientists and fostering collaborative team environments.

Personal Attributes

• Detail-oriented, quality-driven, and scientifically rigorous.
• Innovative and proactive in developing new approaches.
• Highly organized, with strong project management skills.
• Customer-focused, with a solutions-oriented mindset.