Biologics Analytical Research and Development Intern

Job Description

Envision spending your summer working with energetic colleagues and inspirational leaders, all while gaining world-class experience in one of the most dynamic organizations in the pharmaceutical industry. This is a reality for AbbVie Interns.  

AbbVie Biologics Analytical Research & Development (BioARD) is a global analytical sciences organization responsible for all CMC analytical activities related to the development of AbbVie's pharmaceutical products.  Our scope includes AbbVie's diverse pipeline of innovative therapeutic biologic medicines and spans from the selection of Discovery candidate molecules through the transition of analytical methods and testing to commercial labs to support product launch.  We are building a world-class team of scientists and leaders who will drive the advancement of industry-leading analytical capabilities and make meaningful contributions to advance AbbVie's pipeline of innovative medicines.  Careers in AbbVie Biologics Analytical R&D provide unique opportunities to work with global and cross-functional teams to drive exceptional science and innovative product development strategies.   

This internship, embracing the biologics characterization group, aims to develop state-of-the-art analytical techniques for higher-order structures (HOS) characterization of complex biologics such as antibody-drug-conjugates (ADCs), using novel chemical labeling techniques. The project focuses on ADC aggregates, where we seek to characterize and localize, at molecular level, the ADC self-association interfaces and capture any allosteric conformational changes upon aggregation, and understand the aggregation formation mechanism, providing potential opportunities to holistically mitigate ADC aggregation issues during AbbVie early-phase developments.  

Key responsibilities include: 

• Perform protein covalent labeling experiments, contribute to sample preparation and instruments operation including reversed-phase chromatography and high-resolution mass spectrometry 
• Optimize labeling experiment parameters including chemical labeling reagents, protein-reagent ratio, and reaction time 
• Collect and analyze LC-MS/MS data, partner with technical SMEs for data interpretation 
• Create antibody structural homology and visualization of regions/residues involved in aggregation 

Qualifications

Minimum Qualifications  

• Currently enrolled in university, pursuing a PhD in analytical biochemistry, protein science, biophysics or other related field 
• Must be enrolled in university for at least one semester following the internship  
• Knowledge of protein science and protein analytical chemistry is essential 

Preferred Qualifications (Optional) 

• Expected graduation date between December 2026 – June 2027 
• Exposure to high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC), mass spectrometry is desired   
• Hands-on experience with protein sample handling is a plus 
• Understanding and experience with molecular visualization software such as PyMOL, Schrodinger, or equivalent is a plus