Research Associate, Protein Engineering
About The Position
This is a unique opportunity to join a talented team of scientists and engineers focused on solving critical challenges in molecular data storage. As a Research Associate in technology development, you will be primarily responsible for the performing molecular biology and biochemistry experiments at the benchtop for the development of engineered enzymes critical to our core technology. You will run day-to-day benchtop experiments to ensure the continuous supply of high-quality protein material for the broader team, while also developing and optimizing next-generation enzymatic assay protocols. The ideal candidate is a rigorous and detail-oriented experimentalist with prior experience in molecular biology and biochemistry, along with a passion for driving innovation in a highly interdisciplinary environment.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in Chemistry, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, or a closely related field.
- Hands-on experience developing, optimizing, and executing biochemistry and molecular biology protocols in a research laboratory environment
- Must be a creative and detail-oriented person with excellent analytical, verbal, and written communication skills.
- Exceptional collaboration skills and ability to work seamlessly in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.
Nice To Haves
- A Master's degree or prior relevant industry experience is a plus.
- Experience with bioconjugation and protein attachment to solid surfaces is a plus.
- Experience with liquid handling laboratory automation is a plus
- Experience with Next Generation DNA sequencing (NGS) methods is a plus
- Experience in a biotech or pharma R&D environment is highly desirable.
Responsibilities
- Prepare, purify, and provide protein materials to the broader team for daily experimental workflows.
- Perform bacterial protein expression and purification at the benchtop, using both gravity columns and FPLC chromatography.
- Perform protein characterization methods including SDS-PAGE analysis, UV/Vis quantification, and BCA quantification.
- Perform routine molecular biology techniques, including bacterial transformation, plasmid purification, and basic E. coli culture.
- Develop and optimize novel assays for protein conjugation and enzymatic activity measurement.
- Execute high-throughput protein production and activity screening, alongside associated skillsets including design and construction of DNA libraries.
- Process, analyze, and troubleshoot experimental data and technical issues.
- Maintain detailed and meticulous records of all experimental work and analysis.
- Effectively communicate experimental results, data analysis, and next steps to team members and leadership.
- Act as a strong individual contributor while thriving in cross-functional collaborations with our synthesis, surface chemistry, engineering, sequencing, and bioinformatics teams.
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Entry Level
