RA/Senior Research Associate Molecular Biology and Protein Chemistry

Synthorx is a pharmaceuticals startup company using a novel synthetic biology platform for the discovery and development of transformational protein therapeutics. We are hiring a driven, resourceful Research Associate/Senior Research Associate with strong background in molecular biology and recombinant protein expression, and a working knowledge of protein biochemistry and purification, to join our high-energy team and support projects focused on the identification of lead candidate molecules for immuno-oncology and autoimmune disease indications.  We are seeking a self-starting, highly independent and collaborative individual, able to operate at high pace, to meet aggressive timelines.

Key Responsibilities:

• Perform and optimize molecular biology methods for cloning, strain generation and analytical testing
• Hands-on experience with all methods employed for protein expression, purification, and analytical evaluation
• Experimentally determine methods and strategies to optimize yields for protein expression
• Develop standard operating procedures and document protocols 
• Prepare and present project updates to ensure timely delivery
• Maintain a high standard for quality control including up-to-date data records for all deliveries 
• Troubleshoot challenging technical, experimental, and instrumental issues
• Consummate ability to work in a highly collaborative, fast-paced, cross-functional environment, with superior oral and written communication skills

Required:

• BS or MSc degree, with a major in biochemistry, biology, chemistry, or related field, and 2+ years of hands-on experience with molecular biology and recombinant protein production
• Extensive experience with molecular biology methods including PCR, cloning, and DNA assembly
• Experience developing methods for protein purification.
• Chromatography skills including affinity and SEC. Familiarity with AKTA instrumentation is highly desirable
• Experience in protein characterization (SDS PAGE, Western Blotting, quantification). Understanding of MS methods for QC is a plus
• Regular activities require ability to communicate effectively and rapidly reprioritize to match dynamic and demanding timelines

Additional preferred skills:

• Working knowledge of analytical methods including LC-MS and HPLC