Senior Scientist, Protein Engineering (Phage Display)

Role Summary

Senior Scientist, Protein Engineering specializing in phage display to advance discovery programs. The role requires hands-on experience with phage display platforms, antibody discovery and optimization, molecular cloning, library design and construction, DNA sequencing, and cell-based expression systems. You will work independently and with cross-functional teams 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

• Required: 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).
• Required: Hands-on experience with phage display platforms and antibody selection techniques.
• Required: Strong understanding of antibody structure-function relationships and engineering strategies.
• Required: Proficiency in molecular cloning, library construction, sequencing, and cell-based expression systems (bacterial, yeast, mammalian).
• Required: Experience with analytical tools such as ELISA, liquid handler automation, plate-based assays, flow cytometry, and affinity measurements (SPR, BLI).
• Required: Excellent problem-solving skills and ability to work independently and collaboratively.
• Required: Highly proficient with Excel and molecular biology software (e.g. Geneious).
• Preferred: Experience with next-generation sequencing (NGS) analysis of phage libraries.
• Preferred: Familiarity with other display technologies (e.g., yeast, mammalian, p-display).
• Preferred: Knowledge of developability profiling (stability, post-translational modifications, immunogenicity).
• Preferred: Prior experience in therapeutic antibody development or biologics pipeline.
• Preferred: Experience with 3D modeling software.

Skills

• Phage display platforms and antibody selection
• Molecular cloning, library design and construction
• Sequencing analysis and interpretation
• Biochemical, biophysical, and cell-based assay proficiency (ELISA, BLI, flow cytometry)
• Directed evolution and screening strategy development
• Data analysis and record-keeping
• Collaborative teamwork and mentoring

Education

• Ph.D. in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Immunology, or related field (or M.S. with extensive industry experience as specified in qualifications).

Additional Requirements

• Work Location: On site (San Diego, CA)
• Work Authorization: United States (Required)