Associate Scientist, Protein Science
About The Position
In this role, you will support Alloy Discovery Services programs by executing protein science workflows central to antibody discovery, including transient transfection, recombinant DNA cloning, and immunogen design. You will contribute to protein expression at both high throughput and large scale as well as purification activities supporting the broader Protein Science team. The ideal candidate will bring hands-on experience with mammalian cell transfection, recombinant DNA techniques, and a working familiarity with downstream protein purification. We are looking for someone with the scientific curiosity to continuously improve our workflows and the organizational rigor to manage multiple projects in a fast-paced environment. Success in this role requires urgency, attention to detail, and a collaborative mindset that supports teammates and drives project goals forward.
Requirements
- MS with 2+ years or BS with 4+ years of hands-on research experience in molecular biology or a related discipline
- Degree in appropriate scientific discipline (molecular biology, cell biology, biochemistry, immunology, or related field)
- Extensive experience with transient expression of antibodies using mammalian expression systems from HTP to multi-liter scale, CHO preferred
- Deep technical understanding of various transfection methodologies (e.g., PEI, lipofectamine, or electroporation) and experience optimizing transfection efficiency and cell viability.
- Proficiency in high-density suspension cell culture management, including scale-up strategies from deep-well plates and shaking flasks to bioreactors.
- Hands-on experience monitoring cell culture health and metabolic profiles using analyzers such as Vi-CELL or equivalent instrumentation.
- Proficiency in recombinant DNA techniques including PCR, cloning, restriction digestion, gel analysis, and plasmid purification at small and large scale
- Experience with designing monoclonal, bispecific, and multi-specific constructs
- Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects and prioritize independently
- Ability to maintain electronic laboratory notebooks in compliance with industry standards; familiarity with LIMS is a plus.
- Good communication skills and willingness to learn and adapt as part of a dynamic, team-oriented environment
Nice To Haves
- Experience in stable cell line generation and vector engineering
- Working knowledge of protein purification techniques, including affinity and size-exclusion chromatography
- Familiarity with bioanalytical techniques to assess protein titer, yield, and purity
Responsibilities
- Perform small- to large-scale transient transfections in mammalian cell lines (e.g. CHO) to drive high yield biologics production
- Independently manage multiple cell culture lines maintaining proper tissue culture techniques
- Systematically evaluate and optimize transfection efficiency, cell viability, and expression protocols across scales to improve throughput, consistency, and overall yield
- Execute recombinant DNA workflows, including PCR, Gibson assembly, and plasmid scale-up
- Contribute to antibody construct engineering to support the production of multi-specific antibody candidates
- Support protein expression and purification of biologics using AKTA chromatography systems, including affinity, IEX, and SEC
- Conduct regular QC on biologics including aSEC, CE-SDS or SDS-PAGE, and LAL as needed
- Analyze, interpret, and track deliverables in an electronic laboratory notebook in compliance with industry standards
- Coordinate project handoffs across functional teams to ensure seamless workflow continuity
- Present experimental data and findings during team and departmental meetings
- Ensure timely execution of project activities in alignment with priorities
- Maintain laboratory organization and ensure compliance with safety protocols
Benefits
- Competitive base and equity compensation commensurate with level of experience and independence
- 401(k) company match
- Generous personal and family medical, dental and vision benefits with 100% of premiums and deductibles covered
- Company-paid disability (STD, LTD) and life insurance
- Paid parental leave
- Family planning support up to $45,000 (e.g., IVF/PGT, adoption, surrogacy, egg retrieval)
- Unlimited PTO (paid time off) and flexible schedules
- Annual stipend for continuing education with commitment to your career through individualized professional development plan
- Wellness and Extensive Employee Assistance Program (EAP) including resources for mental wellness
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Mid Level
Education Level
Associate degree
