Postdoc - Characterization of CHO Host Cell Proteins

Boehringer Ingelheim is a biopharmaceutical company active in both human and animal health. As one of the industry's top investors in research and development, the company focuses on developing innovative therapies that can improve and extend lives in areas of high unmet medical need. Independent since its foundation in 1885, Boehringer takes a long-term perspective, embedding sustainability along the entire value chain. Our approximately 54,500 employees serve over 130 markets to build a healthier and more sustainable tomorrow. Learn more at www.boehringer-ingelheim.com

Tasks & responsibilities

* You will characterize and investigate CHO host cell proteins, with a particular focus on critical and difficult-to-remove species that may affect downstream processing and product stability.

* Using advanced mass spectrometry-based approaches, you will identify, quantify, and profile host cell proteins and support impurity risk assessment through data-driven analyses.

* You will establish, optimize, and apply analytical and functional assays to evaluate host cell protein behavior at trace levels throughout different purification stages.

* Through recombinant protein expression strategies, you will enable the in-depth characterization of selected host cell proteins under controlled experimental conditions.

* In close collaboration with downstream process development and analytics, you will investigate interactions between host cell proteins and therapeutic proteins and translate findings into risk mitigation strategies.

* As principal investigator for research and technology projects, you will lead scientific studies, oversee project execution and data interpretation, supervise students and technical staff, and communicate results effectively to stakeholders and management.

Requirements

* PhD in Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Bioengineering, Chemical Engineering, Biology, or a related scientific discipline

* Strong expertise in protein biochemistry and molecular characterization, ideally including experience with host cell proteins (HCPs)

* Hands-on experience with mass spectrometry-based protein identification and quantification methods, preferably with a focus on host cell protein analysis

* Experience in MS data processing and analysis using bioinformatics tools, including both raw and processed datasets; knowledge of recombinant protein expression and purification is highly desirable

* Solid understanding of downstream processing concepts, chromatography principles, and data-driven experimental design and quantitative data analysis

* Proven ability to work independently and collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams, supported by a strong scientific publication record and excellent English communication, scientific writing, and documentation skills

As part of our commitment to transparency and fairness, salary information will be shared during the recruitment process. We also offer a comprehensive benefits and wellbeing package.

Applications from persons with severe disabilities are warmly welcomed. In cases of equal qualifications, such applicants will be given preferential consideration in the selection process.

With us, you can develop your own path in a company with a culture that knows our differences are our strengths - and break new ground in the drive to make millions of lives better.

Here, your development is our priority. Supporting you to build a career as part of a workplace that is independent, authentic and bold, while tackling challenging work in a respectful and friendly environment where everyone is valued and welcomed.

Alongside, you have access to programs and groups that ensure your health and wellbeing are looked after - as we make major investments to drive global accessibility to healthcare. By being part of a team that is constantly innovating, you'll be helping to transform lives for generations.

Want to learn more? Visit https://www.boehringer-ingelheim.com

If you have any questions about the job posting or process - please contact our HR Direct Team, Tel: +49 (0) 6132 77-3330 or via mail: [email protected]

Recruitment process:

Step 1: Online application - The job posting is presumably online until September 25, 2026

Step 2: Virtual meeting in the period from end of September till end of October

Step 3: On-site interviews beginning of November