Manager, Bioconjugation Chemistry

We have an exciting opportunity for an experienced Manager in Bioconjugation to join our Cambridge-based Bioconjugation Chemistry team. This is a lab-based, client-facing leadership role, combining hands-on scientific delivery with line management and project leadership responsibilities. Abzena provides the most complete set of solutions in integrated early discovery to mid-phase biotherapeutic and ADC drug development services in the pharmaceutical industry. Working with a varied range of customers, from academic groups and small biotech to global pharma, on a diverse range of drug modalities including antibodies, fusion proteins and bioconjugates, Abzena supports the development and manufacture of better treatments for patients. The Bioconjugation group in Cambridge delivers conjugation solutions supporting ADC, AOC and other bioconjugate development programmes. Using established chemistries and next-generation conjugation platforms, the team designs, synthesises and produces bioconjugates to support downstream bioassay and analytical evaluation. Work is conducted in close collaboration with Protein Engineering, Bioassay, Analytics and other cross-functional teams.

About the Role

The successful candidate will provide technical leadership across multiple bioconjugation programmes, guiding complex conjugation strategies from design through delivery, while mentoring and developing scientists within the group. The role sits at the interface of science, project execution and client engagement, in a fast-paced and highly collaborative environment.

Responsibilities

• Independently design, plan and oversee complex bioconjugation experiments, including novel or challenging conjugation strategies.
• Provide scientific leadership across conjugation, purification (e.g., ÄKTA, TFF) and analytical characterisation workflows (HIC, SEC, IEX, CE-SDS, icIEF, LC-MS).
• Lead multiple client-facing projects, ensuring high-quality delivery, clear communication and effective management of timelines and resources.
• Line-manage and mentor scientists, supporting their technical development and performance.
• Review, interpret and challenge analytical data to guide decision-making and troubleshoot issues.
• Prepare and deliver scientific presentations at internal meetings and client meetings.
• Contribute to drafting and reviewing reports, Quality documents and controlled documentation.
• Drive innovation in conjugation methodologies, process optimisation and platform development.
• Work closely with cross-functional teams including Protein Engineering, Bioassay, Analytics and CMC.
• Support continuous improvement initiatives and contribute to group-level strategic planning.

About You

• PhD in Chemistry, Protein Biochemistry, Chemical Biology or related discipline, or equivalent industrial experience.
• At least 6 years’ relevant experience or applied research experience.
• Significant hands-on experience in bioconjugation of small molecules (e.g., cytotoxic drugs, oligonucleotides, fluorescent labels) to antibodies and proteins using a range of linker chemistries.
• Strong understanding of ADC development, linker-payload technologies and the broader drug development process.
• Demonstrated experience leading scientific projects and mentoring or managing junior scientists.
• Proficiency with purification systems (ÄKTA), TFF, and analytical techniques including HIC, SEC, IEX, CE-SDS, icIEF and LC-MS.
• Experience with process development and preparation of bioconjugates at g scale is desirable.
• Confident IT user familiar with MS Office and specialist software such as Chromeleon, Unify, MassLynx, Dotmatics and ChemDraw.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to clearly convey scientific concepts to colleagues and clients.
• Strong organisational skills, attention to detail and the ability to manage multiple programmes simultaneously.
• A proactive, collaborative and adaptable approach, with a positive attitude and commitment to high-quality science.

What We Offer

In return, we offer a competitive salary and benefits package, along with a collaborative, varied and challenging environment where you will be encouraged to develop your leadership skills, expand your scientific expertise and contribute to the continued growth of our bioconjugation capabilities.

UK EEO: Abzena is committed to promoting equal opportunities in employment. All our employees and any job applicants will receive equal treatment regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marital or civil partner status, pregnancy or maternity, race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation.