2027 PDS&T Bioassay Scientist Co-Op (June - Dec)

About the role

Envision 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's Co-Ops. This is a work experience and is not intended to support a thesis.

The PDS&T Toxins group within Operations Science & Technology - Biologics organization supports manufacturing, process validation, regulatory submission, and continuous improvement for late-stage and commercial manufacturing of biological toxins products in AbbVie. We have an exciting opportunity for a bioassay scientist position based in Irvine, CA.

This role involves leveraging scientific and bioengineering principles to develop bioassay methods with next-generation cell lines.

The candidate must possess in-depth knowledge and hands-on experience in a range of techniques, including but not limited to cell culture, bioassay, genetic editing, cell line development, cell sorting, cell-cycle control, PCR, Western blot, fluorescence microscopy, etc. Moreover, excellent communication skills and the ability to thrive in a multi-disciplinary and cross-functional team environment are essential for success in this role.

Key responsibilities include

• Function as an Analytical Scientist: Generate original technical ideas and research or development strategies related to bioassay and cell engineering.
• Project Understanding: Understand the broad objectives of the project and the specific role in achieving them. Modify the experimental plan as needed to respond to new data or project needs.
• Design and Execute Experiments: Independently design, execute, and interpret critical experiments to address scientific questions.
• Innovate Experimental Protocols: Innovate and implement new experimental protocols to advance the project.
• Demonstrate Proficiency: Exhibit a high level of proficiency in relevant scientific and technical fields.
• Set and Meet Timelines: Establish and adhere to experimental timelines to ensure timely progress and results.
• Engage with Scientific Literature: Regularly read and apply relevant scientific literature to stay updated on advancements. Contribute to writing and the conceptual framework of publications, presentations, and patents.
• Organize and Present Data: Effectively organize and present scientific plans and data in meetings, reports, and presentations.

Minimum Qualifications

• Currently enrolled in university, pursuing a Master's degree in Cell and Molecular Biology, Pharmaceutical Science, Biochemistry, Biomedical Engineering, Biotechnology, Pharmacology or other related fields.
• Must be enrolled in university at the time of the Co-Op.
• Must be able to commit to a 6-month program at AbbVie's Irvine, CA (June- December).
• Expected graduation date between May 2028 - Dec 2028.
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to work independently while collaborating effectively with scientists and cross-functional team members.
• Ability to develop comprehensive test plans and evaluate design concepts.
• Understanding of relevant scientific literature and ability to apply the theoretical framework to solving problems within the scientific discipline in a timely manner.
• Detail-oriented with a good track record of delivering reliable and consistent results.
• Good oral communication skills, as well as sound technical writing and documentation competencies, are required.
• Practical experience and knowledge of cell culture, bioassay, cell-cycle control, PCR, Western blot, fluorescence microscopy, etc.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience working with neuronal or other differentiated cell models.
• Knowledge on genome editing, cell line development, cell sorting is a plus
• Experience with fluorescence microscopy, gene-editing techniques, Western blotting, flow cytometry, and qPCR.
• Experience using statistical or data-analysis software, such as JMP, PLA, or comparable tools.

Additional Information: Benefits and Amenities

• Competitive pay
• Housing support for eligible students
• Select wellness benefits and paid holiday / sick time

Applicable only to applicants applying to a position in any location with pay disclosure requirements under state or local law:

• The compensation range described below is the range of possible base pay compensation that the Company believes in good faith it will pay for this role at the time of this posting based on the job grade for this position. Individual compensation paid within this range will depend on many factors including geographic location, and we may ultimately pay more or less than the posted range. This range may be modified in the future.

Note: No amount of pay is considered to be wages or compensation until such amount is earned, vested, and determinable. The amount and availability of any bonus, commission, incentive, benefits, or any other form of compensation and benefits that are allocable to a particular employee remains in the Company's sole and absolute discretion unless and until paid and may be modified at the Company's sole and absolute discretion, consistent with applicable law.