Principal Scientist and Group Leader, Antibody Engineering
Roche
Summary
Genentech's Department of Antibody Engineering is seeking a visionary Principal Scientist to lead a high-impact laboratory team at the forefront of biotherapeutic innovation. In this role, you will pioneer breakthrough protein technologies that seamlessly bridge molecular developability with optimized biological function to advance our biologics pipeline. Operating in a collaborative and highly interdisciplinary environment, you will develop molecular formats that interrogate complex disease biology, translating exploratory science into transformational medicines for patients.
Job description
The Opportunity
Genentech's Department of Antibody Engineering is seeking a visionary Principal Scientist to lead a high-impact laboratory team at the forefront of biotherapeutic innovation. In this role, you will pioneer breakthrough protein technologies that seamlessly bridge molecular developability with optimized biological function to advance our biologics pipeline. Operating in a collaborative and highly interdisciplinary environment, you will develop molecular formats that interrogate complex disease biology, translating exploratory science into transformational medicines for patients.
- Direct and manage a bench-focused laboratory team, fostering technical growth, innovative research, and effective execution.
- Advance internal technological capabilities by developing novel methods and predictive assays to de-risk emerging therapeutic formats.
- Define molecular requirements for therapeutic projects and lead cross-functional teams to identify and advance next-generation clinical candidates.
- Drive platform innovation across emerging biotherapeutic mechanisms, potentially including induced proximity, receptor agonism, targeted therapeutics, or antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs).
- Cultivate an inclusive, high-performing lab culture built on curiosity, scientific rigor, and open communication.
- Collaborate closely with multidisciplinary research partners across Discovery Biology, Structural Biology, Translational Science, and Technical Development to integrate biological activity with clinical manufacturability.
Who You Are
We are seeking candidates with a passion for innovation, creativity, and commitment to translational science and drug development. Prior research experience with antibodies is not essential.
- PhD in biochemistry, chemical biology, structural biology, or a related field. We encourage applications from candidates with extensive prior experience as well as those coming directly from postdoctoral positions.
- Demonstrated expertise in both protein engineering and biology, including a proven track record of applying innovative molecular engineering approaches to resolve complex biological questions or therapeutic challenges.
- Foundational understanding of protein stability and protein-protein interactions along with methods for their characterization.
- Sustained track record of productivity and substantial scientific contributions, evidenced by publications in top-tier peer-reviewed journals, issued patents, and/or notable external scientific presentations.
- Strong collaborative mindset with exceptional written and verbal communication skills and a passion for translating science into drugs.
Location
- This is an office based role based in South San Francisco.
- Relocation benefits are available for this posting
Requirements
- PhD in biochemistry, chemical biology, structural biology, or a related field
- Demonstrated expertise in both protein engineering and biology
- Proven track record of applying innovative molecular engineering approaches to resolve complex biological questions or therapeutic challenges
- Foundational understanding of protein stability and protein-protein interactions along with methods for their characterization
- Sustained track record of productivity and substantial scientific contributions, evidenced by publications in top-tier peer-reviewed journals, issued patents, and/or notable external scientific presentations
- Strong collaborative mindset with exceptional written and verbal communication skills
- Passion for translating science into drugs
Benefits
- Relocation benefits
- Annual bonus
- Medical, Dental & Vision
Company overview
Roche is a Swiss multinational healthcare company and a global pioneer in pharmaceuticals and diagnostics, founded in 1896 and headquartered in Basel, Switzerland. As the world's largest biotech company and the fifth-largest pharmaceutical company by revenue, Roche operates through two primary divisions: Pharmaceuticals and Diagnostics. The company is renowned for its leadership in personalized healthcare, combining strengths in both drug development and diagnostic testing to deliver tailored treatments for patients. Roche maintains a strong focus on oncology, immunology, infectious diseases, ophthalmology, and central nervous system disorders, with a portfolio that includes over 30 medicines on the World Health Organization's Model Lists of Essential Medicines. The company owns significant subsidiaries including Genentech, Chugai Pharmaceuticals, Ventana Medical Systems, and Foundation Medicine. With approximately 103,000 employees worldwide and operations in over 100 countries, Roche has established itself as a leader in cancer treatments globally while maintaining a robust pipeline of innovative therapies and diagnostic solutions. The company's commitment to sustainability has been recognized through ten consecutive years as Group Leader in the Dow Jones Sustainability Indices within the Pharmaceuticals, Biotechnology & Life Sciences Industry.