Scientist-Principal Scientist, Protein Design & Structure

Position Summary

We are seeking a highly innovative and experienced Scientist/Senior Scientist/Principal Scientist to lead GPCR protein engineering and production efforts. The successful candidate will be a subject matter expert (SME) in membrane protein biochemistry, responsible for developing and implementing strategies to express, purify, and characterize challenging G-protein coupled receptors (GPCRs) to support structural biology, biophysics, and drug discovery programs. This role involves hands-on laboratory work and scientific leadership. 

Key Responsibilities

• Protein Engineering Strategy: Design, execute, and optimize constructs for GPCR expression.
• Expression & Purification: Drive the development of high-throughput protein expression (mammalian/insect cells) and purification workflows, ensuring high-quality, homogeneous protein for assays and structural studies (Cryo-EM).
• Cross-Functional Collaboration: Partner with pharmacology, structural biology, and medicinal chemistry teams to support drug discovery projects and advance programs from hit-to-lead and lead optimization.
• Technical Leadership: Serve as a SME on GPCR protein sciences in internal and external project teams; evaluate and implement new technologies.
• Scientific Documentation & Communication: Document experiments in ELN, present data at internal/external meetings, and publish research findings.

Required Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Biophysics, or a related field with 2+ years (Scientist), 5+ years (Senior Scientist), or 8+ years (Principal Scientist) of relevant experience; or a master’s or bachelor’s degree in a related field with commensurate industry experience. 
• Deep knowledge of GPCR biology and membrane protein structure-function relationships.
• Proven expertise in molecular biology (cloning, construct design, mutagenesis).
• Hands-on experience in protein purification of GPCRs using FPLC (affinity, SEC).
• Familiarity with protein stabilization techniques (e.g., antibody fragments, fusion partners, mutagenesis).
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and leadership skills.

Preferred Qualifications

• Experience with structural biology methods (data collection and processing for Cryo-EM).
• Experience in laboratory automation in protein sciences & purification.
• Background in computational protein design tools (e.g., Rosetta, AI/ML-driven prediction).