FDA Protein Biochemistry Fellowship

A research opportunity is available in the Office of Pharmaceutical Quality/Office of Biotechnology Products, Center for Drug Evaluation and Research (CDER), Food and Drug Administration in Silver Spring, Maryland.

This project in the Office of Pharmaceutical Quality/Office of Biotechnology Products will address how different biological, physical, and chemical factors influence the safety and efficacy of a protein drug. These factors could impact critical product attributes during the manufacture, storage, and/or usage of the drug. One of the major influences on the stability and performance of a protein drug is its formulation. Excipients that are added to stabilize proteins can and do disrupt the safety and efficacy of products, under certain circumstances. A multi-disciplinary approach is critically needed to understand their impact and mechanism in order to understand their realistic clinical impact and make sound regulatory assessments. 

Under the guidance of a mentor, the participant will be trained on protein biochemistry and the impact of protein oxidation using in vitro and in vivo models. Activities may include orthogonal validation experiments utilizing specialized equipment such as mass spectrometry and chromatographic methods to characterize the structure-function relationship between oxidation and drug purity, potency and immunogenicity. This training will prepare the participant for a successful career transition into regulatory science research.

This program, administered by ORAU through its contract with the U.S. Department of Energy to manage the Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education, was established through an interagency agreement between DOE and FDA. The initial appointment is for one year, but may be renewed upon recommendation of FDA contingent on the availability of funds. The participant will receive a monthly stipend commensurate with educational level and experience. Proof of health insurance is required for participation in this program. The appointment is full-time at FDA in the Silver Spring, Maryland, area. Participants do not become employees of FDA, DOE or the program administrator, and there are no employment-related benefits