Principal Scientist, Peptide Chemistry

Calico•South San Francisco, CA

1d•$197,000 - $220,000•Onsite

About The Position

Calico is seeking a Principal Scientist, Peptide Chemistry to join its Drug Discovery organization and lead a team focused on peptide design, synthesis, and engineering in support of research and drug development projects. The role works closely with structural biology, computational modeling, medicinal chemistry, DMPK, and formulation teams to investigate structure-activity relationships and optimize compounds. It also offers the opportunity to collaborate with the Computing Group on in silico design and validation of protein binders. The successful candidate will work autonomously with a variety of experimental techniques, present results to cross-functional teams, and mentor early-career scientists. The ideal candidate is a recognized expert in peptide chemistry who has contributed to peptide drug candidates entering clinical development.

Requirements

Ph.D. in organic, medicinal, peptide, or biochemistry.
Eight or more years of postdoctoral or equivalent experience working in biopharma or biotech sectors.
Strong expertise in characterizing protein-peptide, protein-small molecule, or protein-protein interactions, including techniques such as SPR, BLI, fluorescence polarization, mass spectrometry, DSF, and ITC.
Proficiency in protein-based assay development, including ELISA, enzymatic activity assays, and AlphaLisa.
Experience with protein engineering, including PEGylation.
Experience with assay automation.
Proficiency in structure analysis software such as Chimera and PyMOL.
Experience managing CROs.
Experience with peptide synthesis and peptide modification chemistry.
Knowledge of optimization of oral bioavailability of peptides.
Accountability, meticulous attention to detail, and ability to multitask.
Strong teamwork and proactive communication skills.
Self-motivation and ability to work independently in a cross-functional team environment.
Willingness to work onsite five days per week.

Nice To Haves

Track record of high-profile publications.
Experience with protein expression and purification.
Experience with LC-MS and AS-MS.
Experience contributing to peptide drug candidates entering clinical development.

Responsibilities

Lead a team focused on peptide design, synthesis, and engineering for research and drug development projects.
Work with structural biologists, computational modeling scientists, medicinal chemists, DMPK scientists, and formulation scientists to investigate structure-activity relationships and drive compound optimization.
Collaborate with the Computing Group on in silico design and validation of protein binders.
Present results to cross-functional teams.
Mentor early-career scientists.
Manage CRO relationships.