Protein Biochemist as Research Associate (m/f/d) Developability and Formulation Development

Octapharma Biopharmaceuticals GmbH

Jobbeschreibung

Octapharma Biopharmaceuticals GmbH a subsidiary of the Octapharma group founded in 1997 is a successful and expanding biotech company in Heidelberg. Our core business is the development of recombinant proteins produced in human cell lines for therapeutic use in humans. We strive for effective treatments with an improved tolerability and convenience for the patient.

We are looking for a Research Associate (m/f/d) with strong skills in protein biochemistry to join our R&D Formulation Development group at our site in Heidelberg. As a member of a young, highly motivated team of biologists and biotechnologists, you will contribute to the development of new, protein-based drugs in the fields of hematology and immunology. During the early phase, we support the selection of promising drug candidates through developability assessment, which combines biophysical characterization and in silico analysis. This comprehensive process utilizes various high-throughput methods to analyze attributes such as non-specific interactions, hydrophobicity, charge heterogeneity, and thermal stability. Our second major focus is developing liquid and lyophilized formulations. We aim to determine optimal formulation conditions, such as pH, excipients and protein concentration to ensure the protein stability throughout manufacturing, storage, handling, and administration. This process is facilitated by the use of high-throughput screening strategies and Design of Experiments (DoE).


  • Supervised design and execution of formulation and developability studies with independent processing of subprojects
  • Execute various biochemical methods, including the use of automated liquid handling systems
  • Assist in the development, evaluation, and optimization of lyophilization processes
  • Present and discuss data and scientific literature in internal meetings, actively contributing to scientific advancements
  • Create electronic lab notebooks and work instructions and contribute to the preparation of study plans and development reports
  • Maintain and troubleshoot laboratory equipment and contribute to the general upkeep of the laboratory

  • M.Sc. in protein biochemistry, biotechnology, biophysics, pharmaceutical science or a related field, or lab technician with several years of relevant working experience
  • You have hands-on experience with protein biochemical methods and are eager to apply techniques such as SEC, HIC, IEX, SDS-PAGE, nanoDSF, DLS/SLS, AC-SINS, Light Obscuration, Flow Imaging Microscopy, and Karl-Fisher Titration
  • You are enthusiastic about engaging in various projects and making meaningful contributions to scientific advancements
  • Proactive, flexible, and self-organized, with a strong motivation to optimize and automate daily tasks while effectively coordinating with team colleagues
  • You have the ability to independently conduct experiments, develop assays, and analyze study results
  • Experience with Design of Experiment (DoE), automated liquid handling systems and programming languages (e.g. Python) is a plus

  • A permanent position in full-time (40 hrs./week) in a constantly growing company
  • A modern, "state of the art" working environment
  • Flexible working hours
  • Regular opportunities for further training
  • 30 days vacation
  • Own company restaurant with subsidy
  • Free drinks such as coffee, tea and water
  • Job ticket or parking space for bicycle or car
  • An international team in an international corporate environment
  • A collegial environment with many opportunities for activities
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