Staff / Senior Scientist, Assay Development (Chemistry)
About The Position
Glyphic Biotechnologies is developing a massively parallel, single-molecule proteome sequencing platform to transform life science discovery. We are seeking a Senior or Staff Scientist to join our Assay Development team. This role is a hands-on position focused on the chemistry-assay interface, involving the development of chemical methods for sample loading, and the creation of novel conjugation, cleavage, and stabilization workflows for our single-molecule proteome sequencing platform. You will collaborate with the Chemistry team on sample input methods for new protein and peptide types, including side-chain protection strategies, encoder loading routes, and peptide-from-protein handoff approaches. The ideal candidate possesses deep expertise in peptide chemistry, bioorthogonal and click conjugation strategies, and cleavage chemistry development, with a proven ability to create new chemical methods for complex systems. This is a full-time, exempt, in-person position located in Berkeley, CA.
Requirements
- Advanced degree in organic chemistry, chemical biology, biochemistry, or a related field.
- Industry experience designing multi-step chemical workflows in complex biological systems, including sequencing or determining the order of chemical manipulations across assay conditions.
- MS/PhD with 6+ years of experience (for Senior Scientist) or MS/PhD with 8+ years of experience (for Staff Scientist).
- Demonstrated experience developing site-selective bioconjugation chemistry for native peptides (N-terminal, C-terminal, side-chain modification) using click chemistry (CuAAC, SPAAC, IEDDA), NHS-ester coupling, and related bioorthogonal approaches in multi-component peptide systems.
- Experience developing multi-step workflows using peptides, oligonucleotides, and bioconjugation techniques (in solution and on surfaces).
- Proficiency with analytical characterization of complex conjugates and assay intermediates: HPLC (RP and IEX), LC-MS/MS, UV-Vis; demonstrated ability to develop and validate analytical methods for novel chemical entities.
- Method-development mindset: history of building and adapting new chemical approaches.
- Ability to function as an independent contributor and a collaborative partner in a cross-functional team.
- Excellent problem-solving skills and attention to detail.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment with evolving priorities.
Nice To Haves
- Familiarity with nanopore or single-molecule sequencing chemistry, and its demands on assay reagent purity, stability, and uniformity.
- Experience with solid-phase peptide synthesis (SPPS), including on-resin modification, selective sidechain deprotection, and non-standard protecting group strategies.
- Familiarity with statistical and DOE-based experimental design for chemistry optimization.
- Prior experience in an early-stage biotech or tools/diagnostics company.
Responsibilities
- Optimize bioconjugation methods for peptide loading into the expansion assay, establishing robust, high-efficiency loading protocols for diverse peptide populations.
- Identify, characterize, and optimize peptide labeling during the ProSE sequencing assay, understanding Edman chemistry and amino acid side-chain reactivity and stability.
- Develop reagents and methods to maximize the stability of peptides, DNA, and peptide-DNA chimeras throughout the ProSE sequencing assay.
- Partner with the Chemistry team to develop amino acid side-chain protection chemistries.
- Evaluate the compatibility of new chemistries with existing assay components, reagents, and multi-cycle sequencing conditions.
- Evaluate emerging chemistries from literature and internal pipelines, synthesizing and testing candidate reagents.
- Design and determine the order of operations for chemical manipulations within the assay workflow, including on-bead vs. off-bead steps and sequencing of protection/deprotection strategies.
- Optimize selective cleavage chemistry workflows for use within the sequencing assay for efficiency, selectivity, and compatibility.
- Develop stabilization strategies for sensitive assay intermediates and conjugates.
- Employ analytical methods (HPLC, LC-MS/MS, UV-Vis, CE) to characterize conjugation efficiency, adduct identity, purity, and stability of assay intermediates and conjugates.
- Characterize and troubleshoot the impact of chemical steps in multi-cycle workflows.
Benefits
- Employee Stock Option Plan
- 100% Health Plan Coverage for Employees & Dependents (Medical, Dental, & Vision)
- Employer Retirement Contributions to 401(k)
- Generous Paid Time Off
- Paid Maternity and Paternity Leave
- Health & Wellbeing Program
- Office Snacks and Beverages
- Regular Team Bonding Activities
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Senior
