Principal Scientist – Lead Discovery and Targeted Protein Degradation Biochemistry

Amgen · Thousand Oaks, CA

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Role summary

This principal scientist role leads protein reagent generation and biochemical assay development for drug discovery campaigns, with emphasis on targeted protein degradation programs. The successful candidate will oversee a small team, design protein production and characterization strategies, develop mechanistic assays, and serve as a scientific partner to cross-functional discovery teams. A PhD in biochemistry or related field with 2+ years of industry drug discovery experience, or equivalent advanced degree with additional experience, is required.

What they're looking for

PhD in Biochemistry, Chemical Biology, Structural Biology, Protein Engineering, or related field plus 2 years drug discovery industry experience
Master's degree plus 5 years drug discovery industry experience
Bachelor's degree plus 7 years drug discovery industry experience
Expertise in protein purification and biochemical assay development for challenging targets
Experience with protein expression in mammalian, insect, and microbial systems
Background in biochemical and biophysical methods for target engagement and protein-protein interactions
Hands-on optimization of assays including TR-FRET, fluorescence polarization, AlphaLISA, and BLI/SPR approaches

What you'll be doing

Lead protein expression, purification, and characterization strategies for novel small-molecule therapeutic discovery
Develop and implement biochemical and biophysical assays for hit identification, validation, and mechanism-of-action studies
Serve as key scientific partner to cross-functional discovery teams providing technical expertise
Lead and mentor a small team of scientists with scientific direction and guidance
Communicate research findings and scientific strategy to project teams and leadership

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Date posted30 days ago

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