Senior Research Associate II, In Vitro Biology

Company Description

Zymeworks is a publicly listed (NASDAQ:ZYME) R&D and clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company dedicated to the discovery, development and commercialization of next-generation, bispecific and multifunctional biotherapeutics, initially focused on the treatment of cancer. Zymeworks’ suite of complementary therapeutic platforms and its fully-integrated drug development engine provide the flexibility and compatibility to precisely engineer and develop highly-differentiated product candidates. We are a global company headquartered in Vancouver, BC, with operations in Bellevue, WA, Dublin, Ireland, Singapore and Redwood City, CA. 

Why Work With Us

Nothing is more critical to our success than the quality of our team. The work we do is meaningful and impactful – we care about each other as well as the patients we serve. We offer challenging career opportunities, competitive benefits and an environment that recognizes and rewards performance.

This role will be located in Vancouver, BC and is full-time onsite.

Zymeworks is seeking a Senior Research Associate II to join the In Vitro Biology group within the ADC Therapeutic Development department. The In Vitro Biology group is responsible for the in vitro functional characterization and advancement of Antibody Drug Conjugate (ADC) therapeutic candidates and platform technologies. The successful candidate will be part of a dynamic and motivated team responsible for supporting pipeline program advancement and contributing to core platform technology improvements and innovation. The candidate will be challenged to critically analyze results and contribute to the Zymeworks team effort to create clinically and commercially relevant therapeutics

What You’ll Do

• Oversees and executes the design, coordination, and analysis of in vitro pharmacology experiments for the screening and progression of novel technologies for ADCs.
• Performs in vitro experiments for the functional characterization of bioconjugates or ADCs for different pipeline programs, using various cell-based assays and techniques including cell viability assays, flow cytometry, high throughput screening, live cell imaging, 2D/3D tissue culture, and other methods as required, to support pipeline project advancement.
• Interrogates the mechanism of action of novel molecules, investigating their cellular targets and intracellular and extracellular interactions, through establishment of novel cell-based or biochemical assays.
• Supports mammalian tissue culture activities in In Vitro Biology group, maintaining numerous immortalized tumour and normal cell lines in culture.
• Works with team to ensure cell lines are properly expanded, cryopreserved and databases updated as required.
• Contributes to experimental design and supports novel assay development by troubleshooting methods and suggesting changes to methods.
• Applies knowledge of scientific methodologies in conducting data analysis and interpretation. Prepares and disseminates data presentations for group meetings, communicating and summarizing experiment results and next steps.
• Applies knowledge of cancer biology, and other scientific methodologies in conducting technically advanced analyses and data interpretations.
• Effectively collaborates with members outside of their immediate team to coordinate execution of decision-making experiments for different projects and routinely shares progress updates with the team.
• Prepares and disseminates data presentations for group meetings, summarizing results and next steps. Acts as area representative in specific projects.
• Adheres to Zymeworks standard procedures for generating, documenting, and archiving data, maintaining an accurate, up-to-date electronic laboratory notebook.
• Provides leadership, mentorship, and scientific/technical guidance to junior staff.
• Stays up to date on relevant state-of-the-art techniques in the field
• May co-author and contribute to scientific papers, patents, and regulatory documents.
• Conducts all activities in accordance with scientific standards, OS&H regulations and established Zymeworks’ policies and practices. Contributes to a safe and highly efficient laboratory environment.
• Actively works to foster an environment of effective and collaborative working relationships amongst employees, management, and external partners.

What You’ll Bring

• BSc in a scientific discipline (Molecular Biology, Immunology, Microbiology, Biochemistry, etc.) and a minimum of ~5-7 years’ related experience, or an equivalent combination of education and work experience. 
• Ability to manage multiple projects, prioritize work and experiments, allocate resources, and deliver on deadlines.
• Demonstrated expertise with cell-based or biochemical assay development and troubleshooting.
• Expertise with characterization and analysis of biotherapeutics (antibodies, ADCs or other protein or immunoconjugates).
• Experience with high-throughput screening assays and workflows is an asset.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving capabilities.
• Excellent organizational and time management skills and the ability to work effectively in a fast paced, fast changing environment.
• Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to work collaboratively as a member of a cross-functional team; ability to establish and maintain effective working relationships.
• Excellent communication skills, including technical writing and oral skills. Ability to present data effectively at group meetings.
• In depth knowledge of antibody or antibody drug conjugate structure/function considered an asset.
• Knowledge of GraphPad and FlowJo softwares considered an asset.
• Knowledge and proficiency in the following techniques:
• o Cell viability assays
• o Flow cytometry
• o High-content analysis or fluorescence imaging
• o Mammalian tissue culture
• o Immunological/co-culture assays considered an asset

Total Rewards

We offer a comprehensive total rewards package, which includes competitive salaries, generous benefits, an outstanding work environment, and excellent opportunities for professional growth. We regularly benchmark our compensation against leading biotechnology companies in our geographies. 

The base salary range displayed on each job posting reflects the minimum and maximum target for new hire salaries for the position in the location for which the job is posted and does not include bonus, equity, or benefits. Within the range, individual pay is determined by a variety of factors and the salary offered may vary depending on the successful candidate’s location and qualifications (including, but not limited to, job-related knowledge, education, training, skills, and experience).

Our total rewards package that includes: 

• Industry leading vacation and paid time off
• Exceptional medical, dental and vision benefits by country
• Zymelife health and wellness benefits
• Matching RRSP / 401K / Pension program
• Employee Share Purchase Program
• Employee Equity Program
• Paid time off to volunteer in your community

This role is not eligible for relocation or immigration support. 

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin or disability.

NOTE TO AGENCIES: Zymeworks values our relationships with our recruiting partners. We only accept resumes from those partners who have been contracted with us. Zymeworks is not responsible for any fees related to resumes that are unsolicited or are received without contract. 

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