Staff Scientist, Biophysical Chemistry
Encodia, Inc., United States
Job Description
Encodia is a rapidly growing platform company that is developing a new generation of protein analysis tools based on single-molecule protein sequencing. Our goal is to make protein sequencing easy and ubiquitous by using a novel reverse-translation technology that turns peptide sequences into DNA. The DNA can be read by a DNA sequencer, providing a path to breakthrough proteomics research at a scale that is not practical or cost-effective using current technologies.
Job Summary
Encodia is currently seeking an experienced Biophysical Chemist to join the Advanced Research and Technology team. The successful candidate will have demonstrated theoretical and empirical solutions for probing and dissecting the interplay of complex biological systems, including: protein-protein, protein-DNA, and DNA-DNA interactions. The successful candidate should also maintain a robust "toolbox" of modern techniques at the intersection of physics, chemistry, and biology, have experience using in silico simulation modeling to help solve cutting-edge problems, and possess the ability to navigate and establish research initiatives. Additionally, the successful candidate should have a track record of success as indicated by projects brought to fruition, patents, and peer-reviewed journal articles.
Requirements
- Designing, executing, and analyzing experiments to understand the mechanisms of interaction between proteins, DNA, and other components in a complex molecular assay system
- Developing modular strategies to probe binding interactions of bioconjugates in the context of a variety of surfaces and macromolecular architectures
- Generating theoretical computational models to inform assay design of biochemical and molecular biology systems
- Working as an individual contributor and within a cross-functional team to help drive platform strategy and innovation
- Aligning and integrating activities with other project teams and communicating effectively with colleagues and leadership through oral and written reports
- Contributing to scientific manuscripts, grant applications, and participating in the development of the Company's IP portfolio
What you bring to this role
- PhD with 7+ years of experience in biophysical chemistry, single-molecule biophysics, molecular dynamics or other closely related fields
- Extensive knowledge of molecular dynamics simulations and tangible execution of such methods for understanding the interplay between biomacromolecules in an in vitro setting
- Experience in developing approaches that help probe interactions between proteins and nucleic acids
- Working knowledge of both DNA and protein structure-function with a strong skill set in experimental biochemical and biophysical assay development
Highly Desirable
- Hands-on experience dissecting on- and off-target binding of proteins, DNA, and and/or protein bioconjugates
- Experience in translating MD simulations of complex biomacromolecular systems into a wet-lab setting
- Working knowledge of molecular biology techniques (e.g., site-directed mutagenesis, DNA cloning, DNA sequencing, etc.)
Benefits
Encodia is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We offer a competitive and comprehensive employee benefits package including medical plans, dental insurance, vision plans, LTD, paid vacation, and a stock plan.
We do not discriminate in recruitment, hiring, training, promotion or other employment practices for reasons of race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital or veteran status, disability, or any other legally protected status. We are committed to building diverse teams, and we strive to create an inclusive workplace that cultivates bold innovation through collaboration and empowers our people to unleash their full potential.
Encodia requires all employees to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 before their start date. We will reasonably accommodate employees who cannot get vaccinated because of medical reasons or sincerely-held religious beliefs to the extent that any such accommodation does not pose an undue hardship for the company.
Don't meet every single requirement?
At Encodia, we are dedicated to building a diverse and inclusive workplace, so if you are excited about this opportunity but you don't check all the boxes in the job description, we encourage you to apply anyway.
You may be just the person we are looking for.