Postdoc - Characterization of CHO Host Cell Proteins (m/w/d)

Tasks & responsibilities

• You will characterize and investigate CHO host cell proteins, with a particular focus on critical and difficult-to-remove species that may affect downstream processing and product stability.
• Using advanced mass spectrometry-based approaches, you will identify, quantify, and profile host cell proteins and support impurity risk assessment through data-driven analyses.
• You will establish, optimize, and apply analytical and functional assays to evaluate host cell protein behavior at trace levels throughout different purification stages.
• Through recombinant protein expression strategies, you will enable the in-depth characterization of selected host cell proteins under controlled experimental conditions.
• In close collaboration with downstream process development and analytics, you will investigate interactions between host cell proteins and therapeutic proteins and translate findings into risk mitigation strategies. As principal investigator for research and technology projects, you will lead scientific studies, oversee project execution and data interpretation, supervise students and technical staff, and communicate results effectively to stakeholders and management.

Requirements

• PhD in Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Bioengineering, Chemical Engineering, Biology, or a related scientific discipline
• Strong expertise in protein biochemistry and molecular characterization, ideally including experience with host cell proteins (HCPs)
• Hands-on experience with mass spectrometry-based protein identification and quantification methods, preferably with a focus on host cell protein analysis
• Experience in MS data processing and analysis using bioinformatics tools, including both raw and processed datasets; knowledge of recombinant protein expression and purification is highly desirable
• Solid understanding of downstream processing concepts, chromatography principles, and data-driven experimental design and quantitative data analysis Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams, supported by a strong scientific publication record and excellent English communication, scientific writing, and documentation skills

As part of our commitment to transparency and fairness, salary information will be shared during the recruitment process. We also offer a comprehensive benefits and wellbeing package. Applications from persons with severe disabilities are warmly welcomed. In cases of equal qualifications, such applicants will be given preferential consideration in the selection process.

Work at the forefront of innovative bioprocessing science and help shape the future of biopharmaceutical development! Seize the opportunity to make a significant contribution to the understanding and control of host cell proteins originating from CHO cells, a key challenge in biologics development. Join our dynamic downstream process development & analytics team and use your scientific expertise to drive innovation at the interface of protein analytics, process development, and product quality. Your expertise and commitment are our key to success!

Postdoc: This Position is limited for 2 years. Note: To make it easier to find our job advertisements, we use the usual designation "postdoc". Of course, this advertisement is not only addressed to applicants directly after completing their doctorate, but to all qualified candidates.