Analytical Method Development (AMD) is the science of creating and validating the tests that confirm a drug’s identity, purity, potency, and stability—parameters that are non-negotiable for patient safety and regulatory approval. At Abzena, AMD underpins every stage of our development pipeline, from early-stage feasibility through to commercial manufacturing. By designing robust, reproducible assays, the AMD team ensures that each molecule we work on meets our stringent quality standards before it ever reaches a toxicology study or a Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) batch.
At Abzena, our strength lies in our dedicated team members who transform innovative ideas into therapies that improve patient lives. Our latest colleague spotlight features Dr Selda Goktas, a Sr. Scientist in our analytical method development (AMD) department at our San Diego site. Her impressive journey from breakthrough academic research to a strategic industry role exemplifies the passion, precision, and purpose that drive our work.
A Journey Fueled by Discovery
Selda’s career is built on a solid academic foundation. Trained as a Chemical Engineer and holding a PhD from the University of Oklahoma, she focused on tissue engineering during her studies. This discipline demanded both scientific curiosity and an unwavering commitment to innovation. During her academic tenure, she became the first author on nine high-impact journal articles, reflecting her meticulous approach and dedication to advancing scientific knowledge. Her expertise spans the production and characterization of small molecule therapeutics, bioreactor design and operation, and molecular biology assays.
In 2021, eager to see her research impact patient care directly, Selda made the transition from academia to industry. At Abzena, she found an environment where her scientific insights are not only valued but applied toward solving real-world challenges. This shift has allowed her to play a direct role in developing therapies that address pressing medical needs—an endeavor that continues to energize her work every day.
A Day in the Life
In her role as an AMD Lead, Selda blends scientific rigor with collaborative teamwork. Her day-to-day work revolves around guiding a talented team of scientists through method feasibility, optimization, and pre-qualification. A critical aspect of her responsibilities is ensuring that new analytical methods move seamlessly from the research bench to our Quality Control (QC) Laboratory.
Selda oversees the creation and review of essential documentation, including analytical test methods, development and pre-qualification reports, and the design of drug product stability studies. Beyond the laboratory, she actively collaborates with both the Process Development and Manufacturing departments. This cross-functional teamwork is vital for supporting multiple Toxicology and GMP batches, ensuring every project adheres to the highest standards of safety and accuracy.
As a customer-facing representative, Selda also plays an integral role during technical joint team meetings. Her ability to communicate complex scientific concepts clearly helps build trust with customers, ensuring their needs are met and their expectations exceeded. Her expertise and personable approach make her an invaluable contributor to our ongoing mission of delivering innovative drug development solutions.
Technical Prowess
For Selda, success in analytical method development comes from a blend of technical excellence and strong interpersonal skills. Her extensive bench work, attention to detail, and a robust analytical background are the foundation of her daily achievements. Yet, she also emphasizes the importance of forming meaningful relationships—with colleagues and customers alike. In an arena where precision and timing are crucial, effective communication is as essential as technical proficiency.
Whether she’s managing multiple projects or ensuring smooth transitions between teams, Selda’s focus remains on reliability and collaboration. Her approach underlines that advancing drug development is a collective effort, one where every team member’s contribution is key to driving innovation forward.
An Environment Designed for Collaboration
According to Selda, one of the unique advantages of working at our San Diego site is the closeness of various departments. This proximity fosters an environment where ideas flow freely, and decisions are made swiftly, setting the stage for rapid innovation. The culture of open communication and mutual support across departments is not only instrumental in meeting operational objectives—it also defines the collaborative spirit that lies at the heart of Abzena.
Selda shares, “I believe that excellence is built on meticulous attention to detail. Working at Abzena has reinforced this commitment. Here, every detail matters, and that shared focus on accuracy elevates our work in drug development.”
Here, every scientific achievement is the result of shared expertise and collective effort. This commitment to teamwork is essential for continuously improving our processes and for fostering innovative methodologies that help us excel in the challenging landscape of biopharmaceutical drug development.
A Pathway for Growth and Impact
For anyone considering a career in analytical method development, Selda’s journey offers invaluable insight. She describes her role as a unique opportunity to gain comprehensive knowledge of the entire drug development process—from early-stage research through to commercial manufacturing. This position provides exposure to critical regulatory requirements and operational standards, equipping professionals with both scientific and practical expertise.
Her experience at Abzena makes it clear that working here is a chance to be at the forefront of scientific innovation. For aspiring scientists and professionals eager to make a meaningful impact, the AMD Lead role represents a career path that is as challenging as it is rewarding.
In Conclusion
Selda Goktas epitomizes the values we hold dear at Abzena: dedication, innovation, and a collaborative spirit. Her evolution from a distinguished academic researcher to a key leader on our analytical team underscores the transformative impact that passion and perseverance can have on drug development. As she continues to advance her career in analytical method development, Selda reminds us that progress is achieved through curiosity, precision, and a commitment to continuous learning.
If you’re driven by scientific challenges and are passionate about contributing to next-generation therapies, Selda’s path may well inspire your future. Join us at Abzena and be part of a team where innovation is a collective journey and every effort counts.
