Protein Engineering Scientist, Gene Therapy Engineering

Role Summary

Perform protein engineering to advance the development of novel gene therapies. Design and perform protein variants and conduct in vitro screening for improved tropism and other critical attributes. Collaborate with internal and external teams on new and existing programs.

Responsibilities

• Design, produce, and screen novel proteins across differing biological modalities to advance gene therapy programs
• Apply rational structural and computational approaches in protein engineering for improved attributes aligning with program goals
• Design and execute molecular biology and in vitro experiments in support of gene therapy programs
• Independently recommend alternatives, research new methods and techniques, and proactively seek senior input to discuss potential solutions
• Prepare data summaries and present results to peers and colleagues
• Provide training and/or supervision to junior staff, as needed
• Other tasks as assigned

Qualifications

• Required: BS/BA degree in biology and 2+ years of relevant experience OR
• Required: MS/MA degree in biology and some relevant industry experience preferred OR
• Required: PhD or equivalent and some relevant experience
• Required: Knowledge of protein engineering, including structural analysis and application of computational approaches
• Required: Expertise in molecular biology, including techniques such as PCR, digital PCR, gel electrophoresis, western blot/ELISA, plasmid design, cloning, and sequencing
• Required: Experience in cell culture work, especially AAV or antibody production, including plasmid transfection, cell material processing, and purification
• Preferred: Programming proficiency, especially in Python
• Preferred: Familiarity with protein engineering tools (PyMol, MolStar, AlphaFold); experience with ML applications (DiffDock, BoltzGen) is a plus
• Preferred: Backgrounds in neuroscience and/or sequencing technologies
• Required: Excellent critical analysis skills and ability to assess data and research findings outside of Neurocrine for application to new scientific projects
• Required: Advanced knowledge and demonstrated ability to work with a variety of laboratory equipment/tools
• Required: Ability to work as part of teams
• Required: Excellent computer skills and communication skills
• Required: Ability to meet multiple deadlines across a variety of projects/programs, with a high degree of accuracy and efficiency

Skills

• Strong data analysis and scientific communication
• Collaborative teamwork and mentorship abilities
• Proficiency with laboratory techniques and equipment

Education

• BS/BA in biology or related field (Required when no advanced degree)
• MS/MA in biology or related field (Preferred)
• PhD or equivalent in biology or related field (Preferred)