Senior Scientist, Protein Engineering

SystImmune Inc. is a dynamic clinical-stage bio-pharmaceutical company headquartered in Redmond, WA. Our mission is to revolutionize cancer treatment by developing breakthrough-therapeutic multi-specific antibodies and ADCs. With eight assets in ongoing clinical trials and a robust preclinical pipeline, we are committed to advancing innovative therapies from discovery through clinical development.

Job Summary:

We are seeking an independent Senior Scientist with industry experience in biologics drug development. In this laboratory-based role, you will be responsible for designing and executing display-based campaigns while interfacing with other members of the research team to achieve protein design goals. The position reports to the Director of Protein Engineering. The ideal candidate will have broad experience in antibody discovery, protein engineering, protein biochemistry, and molecular biology and at least one display method (e.g. yeast, phage, mammalian).

Key Responsibilities:

• Design and execute on display-based protein engineering campaigns of binder and effector molecules including affinity modulation, stability optimization, and development of novel properties (e.g. pH, epitope masking, etc.).
• Optimize methods to efficiently execute engineering campaigns (e.g. library generation and sample preparation, NGS sequencing, flow cytometry-based lead selection, etc.).
• Construct immune-based repertoires from immunized animal sources for use in both discovery and protein engineering campaigns.
• Utilize data analysis tools to evaluate large datasets to inform iterative protein design.
• Stay updated on advancements in instrumentation, software, and methodologies, currently utilized in display-based protein engineering.
• Conduct biophysical characterization using Octet BLI, Prometheus Panta, and other techniques.
• Troubleshoot technical issues and implement solutions to optimize lead molecules, ensuring data quality and integrity throughout the discovery and optimization process. Utilize LIMS system and maintain accurate and timely records and meet internal reporting standards.
• Write and review Standard Operating Procedures (SOP), perform general laboratory duties, prepare experiment designs and execute data analyses.

Qualifications:

• PhD (or equivalent) in bioengineering, biochemistry, structural biology, molecular biology, cell biology, or a related field. 3 year industrial drug development experience preferred.
• 2 years of experience using display approaches to generate therapeutic or protein engineering lead molecules.
• Experience in utilizing display technologies (yeast/phage) to discover and engineer novel binders and lead molecules of different classes (e.g. Ab, Fab, scFv, VHHs, etc.).
• Demonstrated proficiency in one or more of the following workstreams: library design and generation, display-based selection, protein engineering, and assay development.
• Extensive experience in FACS-based selection and sorting.
• Experience with data analysis software (e.g., GraphPad Prism, FlowJo) and statistical analysis of experimental results.
• Excellent problem-solving skills, with the ability to troubleshoot technical issues and implement effective solutions.
• Outstanding organizational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively within multidisciplinary teams
• On-site work is mandatory.

Language Ability

Ability to read and comprehend simple instructions, short correspondence, and memos. Ability to write simple correspondence. Ability to effectively present information in one-on-one and small group situations to customers, clients, and other employees of the organization. Strong interpersonal, communication and collaboration skills to connect with internal and external CROs. Ability to read or write in Mandarin is a plus.

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Math Ability

Ability to calculate figures and amounts such as discounts, interest, commissions, proportions, percentages, area, circumference, and volume. Ability to apply concepts of basic algebra and geometry.

Reasoning Ability

Ability to interpret a variety of instructions furnished in written, oral, diagram, or schedule form. Strong scientific, medical, and analytical abilities with innovative, solution-oriented style.

Computer Skills

Proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint required. Proficiency with email required.

Certificates and Licenses

None required.

Supervisory Responsibilities

This job may have supervisory responsibilities.

Work Environment:

The work environment characteristics described here are representative of those an employee encounters while performing the essential functions of this job.

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This individual will work in cell culture laboratory alongside other scientists and in a standard business office with desktop business equipment and a moderate noise level.

Physical Demands:

The physical demands described here are representative of those that must be met by an employee to successfully perform the essential functions of this job.

While performing the duties of this job, the employee is regularly required to sit for long periods of time. This individual must be able to operate standard laboratory and business equipment.

The hiring pay range for this position is $120,000 - $140,000 per year based on skills, education, and experience relevant to the role.

SystImmune is a stable, well-funded biotech company with a bright future. We offer an opportunity for you to learn and grow while making significant contributions to the company’s success. SystImmune offers a comprehensive benefits package including: 100% paid employee premiums for medical/dental/vision, also STD, LTD, a 401(k) plan with a 50% company match of up to 3% and a vesting schedule of only 5 years, 15 PTO days per year, sick leave, plus 11 paid holidays and more.

SystImmune is an Equal Opportunity Employer. Interested applicants should send their CV and cover letter to hr@systimmune.com