Scientist, Microbial Fermentation Protein Sciences and Early Stage CMC Process Development

Scientist, microbial fermentation protein sciences and early stage CMC process development Synthorx is a pharmaceutical company using a novel synthetic biology platform for the discovery and development of transformational protein therapeutics. We are hiring a driven Scientist with strong background in microbial protein expression and a working knowledge of protein biochemistry. This candidate will be responsible for the development of protein expression processes using Synthorx E.coli recombinant platform to support lead candidate selection, pre-clinical studies and technical transfer to external GMP manufacturing partners. We are seeking a self-starting, highly independent and collaborative individual, able to operate at high pace to meet aggressive timelines.

Key Responsibilities:
• Perform all steps of protein expression and scale-up. Experience with microbial fermentation is required. Experience with E.coli fermentation is highly desirable.
• Experimentally determine methods to optimize yields and other process parameters for protein expression.
• Experience with recombinant production of polypeptides.
• Lead fermentation process optimization using a data driven approach.
• Experience with fermentation equipment at bench, pilot and industrial scale.
• Collaborate with platform and downstream process development teams to ensure efficient integration of fermentation and upstream and downstream functions.
• Develop standard operating procedures, document protocols and technology transfer.
• Support internal lead discovery efforts and pre-clinical studies.
• Supervise/Mentor junior staff and provide insight and technical expertise for project progression
• Maintain a high standard for quality control including up-to-date data records for all protein deliveries.
• Troubleshoot challenging technical, experimental, and instrumental issues.

Required:
• PhD degree with a major in biochemistry, biochemical engineer, microbial physiology, biology or related field and 3+ or MSc and 10+ years of hands-on experience with recombinant protein production.
• Experience with E. coli-based protein expression including scale-up preparation employing fermentation instrumentation and protocols.
• Strong understanding of microbial physiology and its impact on process optimization.
• Experience with platform systems for incorporation of novel amino acids into polypeptides is a plus.
• Experience with DOE methodology for improving fermentation titers is highly desired
• Experience in protein characterization (SDS PAGE, Western Blotting, HPLC). Understanding of MS methods for QC is a plus.
• Familiarity with protocols involving extraction from inclusion bodies and refolding is a plus.
• Hands-on familiarity with standard molecular biology methods.
• Regular activities require ability to communicate effectively and rapidly reprioritize to match dynamic and demanding timelines.

Travel:

0-20%

Additional preferred skills:
• Experience in technical transfer to external CMOs.
• Experience in regulatory submissions.
• Basic understanding of cancer biology and/or immunology.