Computational Biologist

Battelle • Columbus, OH

2d • Hybrid

About The Position

Battelle is seeking a Computational Biologist II with deep expertise in protein modeling and engineering. This role focuses on candidates skilled in computational protein design, who are eager to optimize and test protein structure-function relationships to address real-world problems within a fast-paced, multidisciplinary R&D setting. The team values creativity, rapid learning, and collaborative problem-solving. As a Computational Biologist II (Protein Engineering), you will contribute to cutting-edge research by applying computational approaches to protein structure prediction, design, and optimization. You will provide technical leadership on challenging R&D programs, both internal and external, and collaborate closely with experimental biologists, chemists, and engineers. The ideal candidate is a self-directed scientist adept at building new computational workflows, integrating AI/ML-enabled modeling tools, and translating biological hypotheses into deployable design strategies. Proficiency in Python (and/or related scientific programming languages) and experience with modern protein modeling and design frameworks (e.g., AlphaFold3, ProteinMPNN, RFdiffusion, Rosetta) are highly desirable. The candidate should be a team player capable of working collaboratively with experimental scientists who will implement and test designs.

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in related field with 2 years of experience or master’s degree in related field; or an equivalent combination of education and or experience in a related field.
• Deep expertise in computational protein engineering, including AI/ML enabled protein design, structural modeling, or optimization.
• Extensive expertise using protein design tools (e.g. RFdiffusion, ProteinMPNN, AlphaFold, Rosetta based workflows, etc.) for protein-binder and enzyme design.
• Demonstrated ability to reproducibly script and code using Python and/or Bash/Unix shell.
• Experience with scientific computing and data analysis libraries (e.g., NumPy, pandas, SciPy, PyTorch/JAX, matplotlib).
• Hands on experience installing, maintaining, and operating open source protein modeling and simulation tools.
• Experience with containerized software environments (e.g., Conda, Docker, Apptainer/ Singularity).
• Strong fundamental understanding of protein biochemistry and common laboratory procedures relevant to protein expression, purification, and characterization.
• Proven ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary team environments.
• Ability to independently troubleshoot technical challenges and rapidly adopt new modeling tools or workflows.
• Strong written and oral communication skills.
• U.S. citizenship with the ability to obtain and maintain required security clearances.

Nice To Haves

• Ph.D.; or M.S. plus 5 years of experience; or B.S. plus 10 years of experience in biochemistry, biophysics, computational biology, structural biology, or a closely related field.
• Protein-ligand interaction modeling de novo enzyme and binder design, molecular dynamics simulations.
• Experience integrating AI/ML tools for protein design (e.g., RFdiffusion3), structure prediction (e.g., AlphaFold3), and optimization (e.g., Rosetta) into computational workflows.
• Experience deploying computational workloads on HPC or cloud architectures.

Responsibilities

• Protein Engineering / Protein Modeling (Primary Focus): Demonstrate deep expertise in one or more of the following areas: Protein–protein and protein–ligand interaction modeling, De novo enzyme, scaffold, and binder design, Structure prediction, refinement, and conformational analysis, Molecular dynamics simulations and structure based optimization, Integration of AI/ML tools for protein design and optimization, Development and maintenance of reproducible computational protein engineering workflows, Close collaboration with wet lab scientists to guide experimental design, interpretation, and iteration.
• General Responsibilities: Design, plan, and lead computational tasks for small multidisciplinary project teams, Provide technical leadership and mentoring within protein engineering efforts, Present results and technical updates to internal teams, collaborators, and external sponsors, Contribute to and/or lead development of scientific publications, conference presentations, and proposals, Identify new technical opportunities and contribute to the growth of protein engineering and computational biology capabilities, Support administrative and project management tasks that ensure timely and high quality project delivery.

Benefits

• Compressed work schedule
• Hybrid work arrangement (60% in-office, 40% remote)
• Paid time off
• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Wellness incentives and benefits
• Optional supplemental benefits
• Coverage for partners, gender-affirming care and health support, and family formation support
• 401(k) retirement savings plan with employer contribution
• Tuition assistance

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level