Team Leader Antibody Discovery

Confo Therapeutics is the only GPCR company with a discovery engine that precisely targets desired GPCR conformations. This unique capability allows us to unlock a vast untapped potential for the discovery and development of breakthrough medicines. We are advancing a robust pipeline of large and small molecules focused on validated targets in endocrine and metabolic diseases, as well as addressing a broader array of critical unmet medical needs in collaboration with our partners. Our team of around 50 people is dedicated to advancing our technology, expanding our capabilities, and building out our pipeline in order to achieve the best possible therapeutic outcomes for patients

Confo Therapeutics is located on the Technology Park in Ghent. More information about Confo’s technology and strategy can be found on www.confotherapeutics.com.

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced individual to lead our Antibody Discovery team. As a Team Leader, you will play a crucial role in advancing our research and development efforts in the field of antibodies. This position offers an exciting opportunity to make a significant impact on cutting-edge scientific initiatives. Through deep scientific engagement and involvement in therapeutic programs, you will also help to define the best path forward based on the therapeutic needs, design immunization strategies and conduct antibody discovery using our platform.

Your responsibilities:

• Ph.D. (or equivalent) in Biochemistry, Bioengineering, Biophysics, Structural Biology, or related disciplines, and at least 4 years of experience in antibody discovery with a proven track record of successful project delivery in biotech or pharma industry.
• Previous leadership or supervisory experience, with a demonstrated ability to lead and develop a team.
• Proficiency in antibody (fragment) discovery, biochemical & cell-based screening techniques, and related laboratory methodologies. Comfortable in identifying and understanding emerging fields and able to integrate critical new technologies quickly. Ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously.
• experience in antibody (fragment) display techniques (e.g. phage, yeast, ribosome display) mining immune and non-immune repertoires
• extensive experience in recombinant library generation (synthetic or natural)
• familiarity with automation and high-throughput screening
• in-depth knowledge and experience with immunization strategies for antibody generation (protein, proteome and genetic vaccinations)
• antibody fragment discovery with integral membrane proteins is an asset
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience with project management and the ability to work in a cross-functional environment.
• The ability to plan and execute according to clear timelines and prioritized tasks.
• The ability to work independently and actively collaborate within and across teams.

• Provide leadership, guidance, and mentorship to a team of scientists and researchers involved in antibody discovery.
• Serve as a key contributor to our antibody discovery process.
• Oversee and manage multiple antibody discovery projects, ensuring they are executed efficiently and meet quality standards.
• Innovate new methods, or make recommendations for onboarding existing ones, to continually improve the quality and speed of discovery of biologics for therapeutic applications.
• Design and supervise experiments within the lab, as needed, to further support your team.
• Provide analysis, interpretation, troubleshooting and next steps on experimental workflows.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of the critical antibody discovery strategies to fill the research pipeline.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams, including bioinformatics, molecular engineering, and assay development, to advance projects and achieve research objectives.
• Stay current with emerging trends and technologies in the field of antibody discovery and incorporate innovative approaches immediately into the research process or via non-dilutive funding assisting in grant redaction.
• Maintain thorough and accurate records, prepare reports, and communicate findings effectively to stakeholders.

Our offer:

• A competitive compensation package with extensive benefits
• An entrepreneurial and stimulating working environment in a growing and ambitious biotech company
• Opportunities for further professional education and development