Research Associate / Senior RA – Protein Analytics & Biophysics

The Mission: We are a clinical-stage biotherapeutic developer creating a high-impact suite of "masked" immuno-oncology (I-O) agents. By engineering molecules that remain inert until they reach the specific environment of a tumor, we aim to redefine the therapeutic index for cancer patients—maximizing anti-cancer activity while protecting healthy systemic tissue.

Position Overview: Our Analytical Development group is looking for a detail-oriented Research Associate (or Senior RA) to drive the biophysical characterization of our lead protein candidates. You will be a central figure in assessing protein stability and structural integrity, utilizing high-end instrumentation to guide our molecules from preclinical stages through to the clinic.

Primary Responsibilities:

• Thermal Profiling: Execute and analyze Differential Scanning Fluorimetry (DSF) to map the thermal melting points and stability of engineered proteins.

• Size-Exclusion Workflows: Conduct routine and complex SEC and SMAC via Agilent systems to monitor aggregation, purity, and molecular weight distribution.

• Candidate Screening: Support "developability" assessments for a diverse portfolio, including monoclonal antibodies, cytokines, and multi-specific constructs.

• Stability Studies: Set up and manage stress-testing protocols, including buffer screening and long-term shelf-life evaluations.

• Technical Documentation: Maintain precise electronic lab notebooks (ELN) and perform primary data analysis using specialized vendor software (Nanotemper/Agilent).

• Team Synergy: Present data summaries in technical forums and collaborate closely with CMC and Discovery teams to ensure data-driven decision-making.

Technical Requirements:

• Academic Foundation: B.S. or B.A. in Biochemistry, Bioengineering, Chemistry, or a related life science discipline.

• Professional Experience: 1–5 years of laboratory experience, with a strong preference for candidates coming from a biotech or pharma environment.

• Instrumentation Mastery: * Hands-on proficiency with Nanotemper platforms (DSF and DLS).

  • Proven experience operating Agilent HPLC/FPLC for SEC-based characterization.

• Biophysical Knowledge: A solid grasp of protein folding, denaturation, and the chemical factors that influence biologic stability.

• Soft Skills: Exceptional organizational habits, the ability to pivot between multiple tasks, and a collaborative mindset for a fast-paced team.

Preferred Skillsets:

• Exposure to Capillary Electrophoresis (cIEF or CE-SDS).

• Familiarity with other biophysical modalities such as DSC or UV-Vis spectroscopy.

• Experience with additional chromatography modes (HIC, IEX, or Reversed-Phase).

• Basic understanding of the regulatory landscape for therapeutic protein development.

Operational Requirements:

• Safe handling of biological materials and chemical reagents in a BSL-2 environment.

• Physical stamina to stand for extended periods at the bench and high manual dexterity for precise micro-pipetting.