Senior Protein Biochemist, Protein Engineering

Element Biosciences is a multi-disciplinary startup focused on innovating genetic analysis tools for the research and clinical markets. The Company's technology will broaden the end user experience through improved data quality and simplified workflows to benefit discoveries and diagnosis in healthcare.

Seeking a scientist contributor for exciting well-funded and long-term multi-venture backed Life Sciences and IVD start-up company.  Ideal candidates will work with cross-functional departments to understand enzyme requirements and build assays and characterization tools to determine if enzymes meet specifications. Candidates are expected to have the technical expertise and drive to work independently and in combination with a small team to deliver understanding and mitigations to enzyme performance and stability.  Characterization methods will employ both solution-based and surface interaction-based studies. Develops advanced methods/techniques for testing and evaluation. The candidate will also be expected to provide project leadership, technical consultation, work direction, and training to junior personnel. Works without appreciable direction on assigned projects/programs. Participates in determining objectives of assignments.


ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS AND RESPONSIBILITIES:
 ·       Characterization of biophysical properties of recombinantly expressed multimeric proteins and DNA-protein complexes.
·       Develop upstream purification protocols and downstream assays to qualify enzymes for commercial production.
·       Develop novel methods to explore mechanisms of DNA polymerases and other DNA modifying enzymes.
·       Deliver designs and execute purification of covalently linked protein-dye conjugates.
·       Independently conduct studies to improve performance of recombinant protein through screening to optimize formulation cocktails and reaction conditions.
·       Collaborate with other teams and cross-function departments to support enzymology needs prior to and through commercialization.
·       Other duties as assigned.


REQUIRED SKILLS/ABILITIES:
·       Capability to independently develop and qualify assays for characterizing protein stability and function.
·       Refolding of E. Coli-expressed proteins with manufacturing quality control.  Ideally for multimeric protein such as Streptavidin.
·       Optimize labeling reactions between protein constructs and fluorophores.
·       Experience with bioanalytical protein methods and biochemical assay of polymerases and other DNA interacting enzymes.
·       Thorough understanding of the biophysical properties of protein folding, enzymatic function, and rational design of buffer formulations.
·       Ability to independently drive scientific progress and deliver on corporate goals and timelines.
·       Lead root-cause identification of enzyme performance and implement mitigations.
·       Desired experience in the following technical areas:
·       Biophysical protein characterization of polymerases
·       Streptavidin refolding
·       Next-generation sequencing
·       Molecular biology
·       Reagent development
·       Enzyme and recombinant protein manufacturing
·       Leadership and management skills
·       Success in this position requires frequent communication with peers and management. These relationships must be built on respect, integrity, cooperation, teamwork, and professionalism.
·       Excellent problem solving and project management skills.


EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE:
·       Doctoral (Ph.D.) in chemistry, biochemistry, molecular biology, bioengineering or a related discipline, with a minimum 2+ years industry related experience and/or training strongly preferred, (an equivalent combination of experience and education may be considered)


PHYSICAL REQUIREMENTS:
Must be able to lift 15 pounds


TRAVEL:  N/A

We are passionate about our mission to develop high performing products to study genomics in an unprecedented flexibility and to understand biology for the improvement of healthcare. We have built a highly efficient product-driven organization where employees can learn, grow and thrive in a challenging but encouraging environment.  We are committed to scientific integrity, collegiality, honesty, objectivity, and openness.   We offer excellent benefits, which include a 401K plan, competitive health benefits, flexible vacation, and equity incentives. 

We foster an environment such that all people are afforded the freedom to pursue their passions without regard to race, color, religion, national or ethnic origin, gender (including pregnancy), sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, age, disability, veteran status or any other characteristics protected by law.