Application Guide
How to Apply for Associate Director Bioanalytics
at BioNTech
🏢 About BioNTech
BioNTech is a pioneering biotechnology company that gained global recognition for developing the first mRNA-based COVID-19 vaccine in partnership with Pfizer. The company is at the forefront of individualized cancer immunotherapies and infectious disease vaccines, with a strong pipeline of innovative therapies. Working at BioNTech offers the opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge science that directly impacts patient lives while being part of Germany's leading biotech success story.
About This Role
As Associate Director Bioanalytics, you'll lead biomarker testing strategy implementation for multiple clinical trial projects, with particular focus on biologics and antibody-drug conjugates (ADCs). This role involves selecting appropriate analytical technologies (LC-MS, LBA, CBA, flow cytometry) and managing external contract laboratories to ensure regulatory compliance and technical excellence. Your work will directly support BioNTech's clinical development pipeline, making this a high-impact position at the intersection of science and operations.
💡 A Day in the Life
A typical day might involve reviewing analytical data from contract labs, participating in cross-functional meetings with Translational Sciences and Clinical Pharmacology teams to discuss biomarker strategies, and preparing documentation for regulatory submissions. You'll spend significant time communicating with external vendors to oversee method development/validation progress and troubleshooting technical challenges for clinical trial samples.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who BioNTech Is Looking For
- Holds a PhD in biochemistry, biology, chemistry, or pharmacy with 5+ years of pharmaceutical industry experience, preferably in bioanalytical method development and validation
- Has hands-on experience with multiple analytical platforms mentioned in the job description (LC-MS, LBA, CBA, flow cytometry) and understands their applications for biologics and ADCs
- Demonstrates proven experience in managing external contract research organizations (CROs) and overseeing method transfers to specialty labs
- Possesses strong knowledge of regulatory requirements for bioanalytical methods in clinical trials (FDA/EMA guidelines) and experience with biomarker strategy implementation
📝 Tips for Applying to BioNTech
Highlight specific experience with ADC bioanalysis and biomarker testing strategies in your resume, as these are explicitly mentioned in the responsibilities
Quantify your experience managing external vendors/CROs - include number of labs managed, project budgets, or successful method transfers completed
Research BioNTech's current clinical pipeline (particularly their oncology programs) and mention specific projects where your bioanalytical expertise could add value
Address the one-year fixed-term contract directly in your application - explain why this format works for you and how you can deliver impact within this timeframe
Use keywords from the job description like 'method transfer,' 'analytical validation,' 'regulatory requirements,' and 'biomarker testing strategy' throughout your application materials
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
['Your specific experience with biologics and ADC bioanalysis, including technologies mentioned (LC-MS, LBA, CBA, flow cytometry)', 'Examples of successful contractor/CRO management and oversight in previous roles, emphasizing regulatory compliance', "How your background aligns with BioNTech's focus on individualized therapies and innovative platforms", 'Your ability to contribute immediately to clinical trial projects despite the one-year contract duration']
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → BioNTech's current clinical pipeline (particularly oncology programs) and their platform technologies beyond mRNA
- → Recent publications or presentations by BioNTech's Translational Sciences or Clinical Pharmacology departments
- → BioNTech's partnerships and collaborations in the ADC/biologics space
- → German/European regulatory landscape for bioanalytical method validation in clinical trials
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Applying with only small molecule bioanalysis experience when the role specifically mentions biologics and ADCs
- Failing to address the one-year fixed-term contract or appearing hesitant about short-term engagements
- Submitting generic application materials that don't reference BioNTech's specific focus areas or the technologies mentioned in the job description
📅 Application Timeline
This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.
Typical hiring timeline:
Application Review
1-2 weeks
Initial Screening
Phone call or written assessment
Interviews
1-2 rounds, usually virtual
Offer
Congratulations!