Senior Scientist for Protocol Development

Are you passionate about designing, optimizing, and implementing innovative protocols for the differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells? Are you excited to contribute to the early operations and science of a new research team? Do you have a stem cell differentiation background and an eagerness for fast-paced, hands-on laboratory work? Most importantly, do you thrive in a culture of collaboration, curiosity, and innovation? 

If this sounds like you, then we have an incredible opportunity for you! Join the newly established GEM CELL Hub (Genome Engineering & Manufacturing of Stem Cell-Derived Cell Types) within the Global Research Technologies unit. Apply today and become part of Novo Nordisk's mission to improve lives through innovative pharmaceutical solutions.

The position 
As the Senior Scientist, you will be responsible for leading the design, optimization, and implementation of innovative protocols for the differentiation of human pluripotent stem cells into specialized cell types. The successful candidate will be a creative scientist with an interest in protocol optimization and translation across 2D and 3D culture of human pluripotent stem cells.  

The main responsibilities can be summarized as follows:  

• Lead the development of novel protocols for the efficient and reproducible differentiation of pluripotent stem cells into specialized cell types, with a focus on applications in the drug development process
• Design and execute experiments to optimize differentiation protocols, utilizing cutting-edge bioprocessing techniques and technologies in 2D and 3D culture
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams to translate established stem cell differentiation protocols into large-scale manufacturing processes
• Analyze and interpret experimental data
• Mentor and provide scientific guidance to junior team members, fostering a collaborative and innovative research environment

Qualifications
To thrive and succeed in the role, you should have:

• A Ph.D. in Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Bioengineering, or a related field with a focus on stem cell biology and differentiation
• 1-5 years of post-doctoral or industry experience in stem cell research, with a proven track record of developing and optimizing differentiation protocols. Experience in the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry will be an advantage
• Expertise in pluripotent stem cell culture, differentiation methodologies, and molecular characterization of differentiated cell types. Knowledge of high-throughput screening and assay development will be an advantage
• Strong publication record demonstrating contributions to the field of stem cell biology 
• Familiarity with automated liquid handling systems and robotics and/or hands-on experience with establishment of bioreactor-based processes will be considered an advantage

As a person, you are curious and driven. Your role will require a highly structured, organized and operational mindset and a working style that balances both innovative ideas and the focus on key deliverables. You are a good team player, who displays excellent communication and consistently engages in constructive collaborations across all organizational levels, functions, and cultures. You thrive working in a fast-paced and dynamic work environment. 

About the area
The GEM CELL Hub is based in Bioprocess Research, Global Research Technologies, representing a new effort to bolster our drug discovery program using stem cell-derived cell types for target discovery and drug screening and related purposes. The primary aim is to ensure the accessibility of top-tier stem cell-derived cells for the diverse applications, catering to varying demands for cell types andquantities,thereby also requiring the need for ongoing research and development of methods and processes. Ultimately, the goal is to facilitate the distribution of cells to stakeholders across the globe. The project will benefit from synergies of being co-localized with our cultivation experts in the area while having easy access to assay development colleagues and experts from our therapeutic stem cell area.

Working at Novo Nordisk
At Novo Nordisk, we do not wait for change. We drive it. We are a dynamic company in an even more dynamic industry, and we know that what got us to where we are today is not necessarily what will make us successful in the future. We embrace the spirit of experimentation, striving for excellence, without fixating on perfection. We never shy away from opportunities to develop, we seize them. From research and development to manufacturing, marketing, and sales – we’re all working to move the needle on patient care.

Contact
For further information, please contact Charis Segeritz-Walko, Director for GEM CELL Hub at +45 30798169.

Deadline
12 January 2025.

You do not need to attach a cover letter to your application, but please include a few sentences about why you are applying in your resume or CV. To ensure an efficient and fair recruitment process, please refrain from adding a photo to your CV.
 

We commit to an inclusive recruitment process and equality of opportunity for all our job applicants. 

At Novo Nordisk we recognize that it is no longer good enough to aspire to be the best company in the world. We need to aspire to be the best company for the world and we know that this is only possible with talented employees with diverse perspectives, backgrounds and cultures. We are therefore committed to creating an inclusive culture that celebrates the diversity of our employees, the patients we serve and communities we operate in. Together, we’re life changing.