(Associate) Scientist Protein Sciences

(Associate) Scientist Protein Sciences

Ascendis Pharma

Heidelberg, Germany

Description

Do you enjoy solving complex scientific problems at the bench and seeing your work directly contribute to therapeutic development to improve patients' lives?

Are you motivated by high-quality science, ownership of your experiments, and the opportunity to improve how things are done?

Do you thrive in a small, collaborative team where your ideas have real impact?

Then this could be your next career step.

As an (Associate) Scientist in Protein Sciences, you will play a key role in the production and characterization of therapeutic protein candidates from research through development. You will combine hands-on laboratory work with scientific thinking to drive continuous process improvement and technology development by:

• Developing and optimizing protein production workflows (cloning, expression, purification);
• Performing protein characterization (purity, yield, stability, activity);
• Contributing to scientific ideas and experimental strategies to advance projects;
• Analyzing, interpreting, and presenting data to cross-functional teams;
• Collaborating with CROs, CDMOs, and external partners;
• Preparing SOPs, reports, and scientific documentation;
• Staying up to date with scientific literature and emerging technologies.

Requirements

• M.Sc. or Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Biotechnology, or a related discipline;
• Strong hands-on experience with protein design, multiple expression systems (HEK293, CHO, E. coli), and protein purification (Äkta) and characterization (e.g. SEC, RP-HPLC);
• Initial experience in biopharmaceutical development (e.g. USP/DSP) is a plus;
• You combine scientific curiosity with strong critical thinking skills;
• You have a pragmatic, hands-on, and independent approach to experimental work;
• You work in a structured and detail-oriented manner;
• You communicate clearly and collaborate effectively in cross-functional teams.