Biogen

Head of Protein Chemistry, Analytical Development

Posted on: 18 Feb 2021

Research Triangle Park, NC

Job Description

Job Description

The individual is responsible for leading the Analytical Development Protein Chemistry group within the Biochemistry and Chemistry Development (BioCD) group that develops all analytical methods supporting the protein pipeline (R2D through commercialization), many of which are used by Biogen Quality Control laboratory to release commercial and clinical materials. The individual is an effective cross-functional leader and collaborator that builds strong relationships within the BioCD leadership team, the Protein Bioassay team group, the Protein Development group in PTD, the greater AD organization as well as the Quality organization. The role can be located in RTP or in our Cambidge location.

The individual enables innovation in analytical testing and control strategy development with an eye towards platforms and automation that can enable all of Biogens portfolio, as well as strong expertise in protein structural characterization and comparability strategies. The individual aligns resources and budgets, develops a vision, sets directions and facilitates a positive and flexible work culture. In addition, the individual will establish relationships within PTD, and with R&D, Manufacturing Sciences, Manufacturing, and Regulatory.

Responsibilities include:

* Manage day-to-day operations of the AD protein chemistry group. Align project requirements with demands of the portfolio for GMP and development support.
* Develops & implements manufacturing control strategies with special emphasis on advancing innovation in analytical controls. Enables quality control of manufacturing processes and release of materials.
* Develop roadmap and vision for the AD department supporting protein development and associated hiring, capital decisions and fee & services plans.
* Establish Biogen as recognized leader in protein development and influence regulatory landscape in relevant areas.
* Fosters a culture of innovation, efficiency, and can-do attitude to produce novel approaches; Identifies opportunities and collaborations to drive innovation and build internal capabilities. Develops talent.
* Facilitates technical interactions with our internal and external partners (e.g. Eurofins Lancaster, PPDi, Catalent, KBI, etc.) to support the development of our portfolio.

Qualifications

* Experience in supporting protein-based drug development programs (DS and DP).
* Experience in managing analytical activities for development (non-GMP) and GMP purposes.
* A history of supporting successful regulatory interactions (IND, IMPD, BLA) across clinical and commercial programs is essential. Experience with phase-appropriate comparability and impurity control strategies is also necessary.
* Demonstrated scientific expertise in protein characterization and structure-activity relationship to enable thorough product understanding and establishment of rational control strategy. Strong knowledge base in glycobiology is also required.
* Experience in managing large-sized teams of scientists and technical leaders.
* Demonstrated external influence in our industry.
* Strong communication skills and a demonstrated ability to clearly communicate complex issues to a non-expert audience.
* Strong people leadership skills and an interest in developing leaders.
* Experience in managing partners / CMOs collaborations.

Education:

PhD in Analytical Chemistry or Biochemistry with 12-15 years of related experience or MS Degree with 15+ years of related experience; Fundamental training in GMP and quality control in pharmaceutical manufacturing

Additional Information

The individual is responsible for leading the Analytical Development Protein Chemistry group within the Biochemistry and Chemistry Development (BioCD) group that develops all analytical methods supporting the protein pipeline (R2D through commercialization), many of which are used by Biogen Quality Control laboratory to release commercial and clinical materials.

Biogen

Cambridge, MA

Biogen Inc. discovers, develops, manufactures, and delivers therapies for treating neurological and neurodegenerative diseases worldwide. The company offers TECFIDERA, AVONEX, PLEGRIDY, TYSABRI, and FAMPYRA for the treatment of multiple sclerosis (MS); SPINRAZA for the treatment of spinal muscular atrophy; and FUMADERM for the treatment of plaque psoriasis. It also provides BENEPALI, an etanercept biosimilar referencing ENBREL; FLIXABI, an infliximab biosimilar referencing REMICADE; and IMRALDI, an adalimumab biosimilar referencing HUMIRA. In addition, the company offers RITUXAN for the treatment of non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL), rheumatoid arthritis, two forms of ANCA-associated vasculitis, and pemphigus vulgaris; RITUXAN HYCELA for non-Hodgkin's lymphoma and CLL; GAZYVA to treat CLL and follicular lymphoma; and OCREVUS for the treatment of primary progressive MS and relapsing MS, and other anti-CD20 therapies.

Further, it is involved in developing BIIB098, Opicinumab, and BIIB061 for MS and neuroimmunology; Aducanumab, Elenbecestat, BAN2401, BIIB092, BIIB076, and BIIB080 to treat Alzheimer's disease and dementia; BIIB092 and BIIB054 for treating Parkinson's disease and movement disorders; BIIB067, BIIB078, and BIIB110 to treat neuromuscular disorders; BIIB093, TMS-007, and Natalizumab to treat acute neurology; BIIB104 for treating neurocognitive disorders; BIIB074 and BIIB095 for pain; and Dapirolzumab pegol, BG00011, and BIIB059 for treating other diseases, which are under various stages of development.

The company offers products through its sales force and marketing groups. Biogen Inc. has collaboration agreements with Genentech, Inc., Eisai Co., Ltd., Alkermes Pharma Ireland Limited, Bristol-Myers Squibb Company, Acorda Therapeutics, Inc., AbbVie Inc., C4 Therapeutics, University of Pennsylvania, Applied Genetic Technologies Corporation, and others. The company was founded in 1978 and is headquartered in Cambridge, Massachusetts.