Senior Scientist, Protein Engineering (Phage Display)

Role Summary

Senior Scientist in Protein Engineering to advance discovery programs with hands-on phage display, antibody discovery and optimization, molecular cloning, library design and construction, sequencing, and cell-based expression. Reports to the Director of Research and works independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced biotech environment to deliver high-quality results under tight timelines.

Responsibilities

• Design, construct, and quality check phage display libraries used in peptide and antibody-based screening campaigns targeting diverse antigens.
• Screen synthetic and immune phage libraries for high-affinity binders.
• Characterize peptide and antibody candidates using biochemical, biophysical, and cell-based assays (e.g., ELISA, BLI, flow cytometry).
• Develop directed evolution libraries and execute screening methods to optimize peptide and antibody formats for improved affinity, stability, and developability.
• Collaborate with protein sciences and protein engineering teams to produce and validate peptide and antibody candidates.
• Analyze sequencing data from phage pools and selected clones to identify lead candidates.
• Maintain accurate and detailed experimental records and present findings in internal meetings.
• Contribute to patent filings, publications, and regulatory documentation as needed.
• Mentor junior scientists and contribute to a culture of scientific excellence and innovation.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Immunology, or related field with 2+ years of relevant industry or postdoctoral experience (or M.S. with 5+ years at Scientist level).
• Hands-on experience with phage display platforms and antibody selection techniques.
• Strong understanding of antibody structure-function relationships and engineering strategies.
• Proficiency in molecular cloning, library construction, sequencing, and cell-based expression systems (bacterial, yeast, mammalian).
• Experience with analytical tools such as ELISA, liquid handler automation, plate-based assays, flow cytometry, and affinity measurements (SPR, BLI).
• Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Highly proficient with Excel and molecular biology software (e.g. Geneious).

Skills

• Next-generation sequencing (NGS) analysis of phage libraries (preferred).
• Familiarity with other display technologies (yeast, mammalian, p-display).
• Knowledge of developability profiling (stability, post-translational modifications, immunogenicity).
• Experience in therapeutic antibody development or biologics pipeline.
• 3D modeling software (preferred).

Education

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Immunology, or related field required; or M.S. with significant industry experience.

Additional Requirements

• Work location: On site (San Diego, CA).
• Work authorization: United States (Required).
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, collaborative environment and manage multiple priorities.