Principal Scientist, Protein Sciences, Analytical Characterizations

Aircall; San Francisco (CA); On-site; USD 154,000 - 300,000; Full time

Job summary

A pioneering biotechnology company in San Francisco is seeking an experienced Associate Director / Director, Analytical Lead to oversee analytical and biophysical characterization in the Protein Sciences group. This role involves managing a scientific team, driving innovative analytics, and guiding key decisions in biologics development. Candidates should hold a Ph.D. and have significant experience in characterizing monoclonal antibodies. The position offers a competitive salary and comprehensive benefits.

Benefits

Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance

401k plan

PTO

Qualifications

• 12+ years’ experience in monoclonal and multi-specific antibody characterization.
• Strong understanding of protein analytical principles.
• Familiarity with CMC development process.

Responsibilities

• Prepare developability assessments packages for biologic candidates.
• Design, develop, validate, and execute analytical methods.
• Mentor and manage a high-performing analytical team.

Skills

Leadership

Analytical methods proficiency

Communication skills

Project management

Team collaboration

Education

Ph.D. in biochemistry, biophysics, or analytical chemistry

Tools

HPLC

LC-MS

Chromatography

Job description

Analytical Characterizations

October 2025

Department: Technology

Position Summary:

Soleil is seeking an expert and engaged Associate Director / Director, Analytical Lead to head our analytical and biophysical characterization efforts within the Protein Sciences group of the Biologics Technology team. In this pivotal role, you will provide strategic vision and oversight for developability assessments, analytical characterization, and method strategy across our biologics portfolio. While leading from the bench to stay closely connected to the science, you and your team will generate critical data that guide key decision-making in candidate selection and due diligence. You will lead and mentor a high-performing scientific team, drive the adoption of novel analytical technologies, and contribute strategically to the direction and success of our biologics portfolio.

Responsibilities:

• Prepare developability assessments packages for biologic candidates (proteins, antibodies, multi-specifics, etc.), evaluating stability, solubility, aggregation, post-translational modifications, manufacturability, and risk factors.
• Design, develop, validate, and execute analytical and biophysical methods (with emphasis on LC-MS, chromatography, spectroscopy, thermal/structural assays) to characterize therapeutic proteins and antibodies throughout the preclinical pipeline.
• Lead from the bench, utilizing technical expertise to conduct experimental setups and troubleshoot complex issues.
• Serve as the analytical lead in due diligence and business development contexts: evaluate external data, review analytical packages, identify technical risk, and advise decision-makers.
• Manage CROs and external collaborations for method development, validation, tech transfer, and analytical support ensuring quality, timelines, and cost efficiency.
• Evaluate emerging analytical technologies for feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and performance; guide their adoption to enhance throughput, sensitivity, and risk mitigation
• Mentor and manage a high-performing analytical team; set scientific and operational priorities, ensure training, help with professional development.
• Collaborate closely with CMC to align analytical strategies with formulation and process development.

Qualifications:

• Ph.D. or equivalent in a related discipline (e.g. biochemistry, biophysics, analytical chemistry) with 12+ years’ experience in monoclonal and multi-specific antibody characterization in industry setting, preferably startup or biotechnology companies.
• Proven leadership experience with a track record of managing direct reports and mentoring scientific teams.
• Proficient in analytical methods that include but not limit to HPLC, CE, SPR, DSF, DSC, SEC-MALS, LC-MS.
• Strong understanding of protein analytical principles and methodologies.
• Extensive experience in characterizing biologics post-translational modifications (PTMs).
• In-depth knowledge of attributes of protein therapeutic drug candidates.
• Extensive hands-on experience in developability studies for antibody therapeutics, including monoclonal and multispecific antibodies, fusion proteins, and antibody-drug conjugates.
• Deep understanding of biologics drug discovery process, particularly hit-to-lead, lead optimization, and candidate selection.
• Research-driven mindset with a focus on therapeutic development.
• Familiarity with CMC development process; prior experience with Investigational New Drug (IND) filing required.
• Meticulous in data organization; capable of multitasking and managing multiple projects without compromising quality.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Strong team-working skills; adaptable and quick to learn new techniques.
• Ability to thrive and deliver results in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

Company Overview

TCG Labs-Soleil, established in partnership with The Column Group, a science-focused venture capital firm, is pioneering a novel ‘venture capital-biotech’ model. Our core mission is to efficiently translate scientific insights into therapeutic solutions for patients facing serious diseases. This model supports scientific entrepreneurs from the initial idea to clinical proof of concept (PoC) by combining a dedicated fund (TCG Labs) with our independent, evergreen R&D center led by a top-tier scientific team (Soleil). Together, we create an integrated ecosystem that fosters the development of single-asset portfolio companies, strategically poised for transacting after clinical PoC.

EEO Statement TCG Labs-Soleil is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We do not discriminate against qualified applicants based upon any protected group status, including but not limited to race, religion, color, creed, sex (including breastfeeding and related conditions), gender identity/gender expression, pregnancy (including childbirth and related conditions), national origin, ancestry, age, marital status, military or veteran status, sexual orientation, genetic information, physical or mental disability or medical condition as defined by applicable equal opportunity laws. Any request for accommodation can be directed to [e-mail].

Benefits and Compensation TCGLabs-Soleil provides a competitive benefits package that includes access to Medical, Dental, and Vision Insurance, Life Insurance, Short and Long Term Disability, Health Savings Account (HSA), Flexible Spending Accounts (FSA), 401k plan and PTO. The anticipated salary range for fully qualified candidates applying for this role will be $154,000 - $300,000 annually (not including discretionary bonus, equity, and benefits). The final salary offered will be dependent on several factors that include but are not limited to relevant previous experience including duration and type of experience within the industry, education, and internal equity.

Staffing Agencies TCG Labs-Soleil does not accept unsolicited agency resumes and will not pay fees to any third-party agency or firm that doesn’t have a signed agreement with TCG Labs-Soleil. Please do not send agency CVs/resumes through TCG Labs-Soleil website or TCG Labs-Soleil Employees. Inquiries must be sent to [e-mail] with the Subject Heading: Staffing Agency Request.