Associate Scientist II or Scientist I, Biochemistry

As an Associate Scientist II at AbbVie, your main responsibilities will revolve around designing and refining experiments related to recombinant protein purification. You’ll utilize techniques like SDS-PAGE, western blot, and analytical SEC for protein characterization. Additionally, you’ll collaborate closely with project partners to tackle issues regarding protein solubility and purity, ensuring the smooth progression of various drug discovery initiatives.

For the Scientist I position at AbbVie, you will need a Bachelor's or Master’s degree in biochemistry, biotechnology, molecular biology, or related fields. Proven experience in protein biochemistry, particularly with protein purification technologies and AKTA systems, is essential. If you have 0-5 years of experience for Master’s degree holders or 3-7 years for Bachelor’s holders, you're encouraged to apply.

Candidates applying for the Associate Scientist II role at AbbVie should be familiar with a variety of biochemistry techniques including SDS-PAGE, western blot, and analytical size exclusion chromatography (SEC). Knowledge of cloning and molecular biology techniques, along with solid experience in protein purification processes, is highly advantageous.

An Associate Scientist II at AbbVie supports drug discovery initiatives by applying their expertise in protein biochemistry to design experiments, optimize protein purification methods, and provide scientific insights that tackle challenges in protein solubility and yield. Your collaborative efforts will be crucial in driving progress across multiple projects, fostering a culture of innovation and scientific excellence.

The work environment for a Scientist I at AbbVie is fast-paced and collaborative, designed to foster innovation and teamwork. You will have the opportunity to work alongside talented scientists and cross-functional teams, focusing on impactful drug discovery projects. The culture emphasizes continuous improvement, technical excellence, and open communication, making it an exciting place for scientific discovery.

When answering this question, detail specific protein purification techniques you've utilized, such as affinity chromatography or size exclusion chromatography. Highlight your familiarity with equipment, like AKTA systems, and provide examples of successful projects where your skills made a significant impact on protein yield and purity.

Discuss your systematic approach to troubleshooting, which may include reviewing your purification steps in detail, analyzing the solubility and stability of the protein, and identifying any deviations from expected results. Emphasize teamwork, seeking input from colleagues, and adapting protocols based on empirical data.

Explain how SDS-PAGE is used to separate proteins based on molecular weight, and mention its importance in determining the purity of protein samples. Reference any experience you have interpreting gels or optimizing conditions for better resolution to show your understanding.

Share your passion for AbbVie's mission to make a remarkable impact on people's lives through science. Mention how the company’s commitment to innovation aligns with your professional goals, and emphasize your excitement about contributing to impactful drug discovery projects.

Illustrate your project management skills by providing examples of how you prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance. Discuss the tools or strategies you use to stay organized, such as tracking progress through spreadsheets or project management software.

Provide a specific example of a project where you collaborated closely with cross-functional teams. Describe the challenges faced, your role in the collaboration, how you communicated effectively, and the successful outcome achieved as a result of teamwork.

Discuss potential challenges you may face, such as optimizing complex purification processes or adjusting experimental protocols based on unexpected results. Frame these challenges positively, showing that you are proactive about finding solutions and are excited about learning and growth.

Explain your methods for maintaining precise records and performing thorough documentation. Highlight how you validate your results through replicates, controls, and peer review, emphasizing the importance of data integrity in scientific research.

Delve into how creative thinking allows you to approach scientific challenges from multiple angles. Share examples where you applied innovative solutions to overcome obstacles in research, demonstrating your ability to think critically and adaptively.

Describe your dedication to continuous learning through attending workshops, reading scientific journals, and participating in relevant online courses or webinars. Mention how you integrate new knowledge into your work to enhance your contributions to the team.