Research Associate – Molecular Biology And Protein Manufacturing

Research Associate – Molecular Biology and Protein manufacturing

Monod Bio is a pioneer company in de novo protein biosensors and reporters. Our innovative platform uses the most recent advances in computational protein engineering to create highly modular biosensing nano-switches. Our technology enables rapid, sensitive, and inexpensive analytical assays: our visionary founding team and state-of-the-art technology position Monod Bio at the forefront of biosensor innovation. We are looking for exceptional individuals to join us on this journey. Our fast-paced and dynamic start-up environment is ideal for highly motivated individuals seeking career growth opportunities.

Monod Bio is looking for a Research Associate in Molecular Biology and Protein manufacturing to join our Protein manufacturing team. The individual will perform screening, lead identification and production of computationally designed de novo proteins. Must have the technical knowledge in Molecular Biology, protein biochemistry, bacterial protein expression and purification and analytical techniques including spectrometry and chromatography.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform Molecular Biology and Protein manufacturing tasks assigned by the team lead.
• Organize and keep record of a centralized lab material, including plasmids and purified protein lots.
• Run a high-throughput pipeline of DNA assembly from synthetic gene fragments using Golden Gate gene assembly.
• Perform 96-well plate format protein expression screening using bacterial expression.
• Perform functional binding studies using Biolayer Interferometry.
• Perform protein purification in bacterial systems, including NiNTA affinity chromatography and size exclusion chromatography.
• Ensure protein quality control and biophysical characterization (SEC-MALS, Circular Dichroism, and Thermostability analyses).
• Coordinate with team members to process protein requests and deliver material.
• Other duties and projects as needed or assigned.

Required Qualifications

• A bachelor’s degree in biochemistry, biophysics, analytical chemistry, biology, biotechnology, chemical engineering, or related fields.
• 2+ years of experience in protein sciences, purification, and analysis in academia or industry.
• Experience with Molecular Biology techniques (DNA work, PCR, cloning and plasmid purification).
• Experience with E. coli bacterial protein expression and purification using chromatography resins. Technical proficiency with the instrumentation required throughout the process.
• Experience in protein biochemistry and analysis using several different biochemical and biophysical techniques, including FPLC, SDS-PAGE, SEC-MALS protein quantitation. Technical proficiency with the needed instrumentation is required.
• Biolayer interferometry (BLI).
• Detail-oriented and well-organized individual, with excellent communication skills capable of coordinating technical activities with minimal supervision.

Physical environment and key requirements:

• Ability to perform work in both an office and laboratory environment. Will be in proximity to BSL2 labs. Familiarity with biological and chemical hazard handling. Training and equipment will be provided, as necessary.
• Office mobility and the ability to stand for periods of time as needed is required.
• Operations happen in moderately loud environments. PPE included by the company.
• Mild odors from the manufacture of physical specimens and from laboratory work. The environment has been tested and proper engineering protections are in place.

We are proud to provide a generous benefits package and a healthy work culture:

• Competitive salary plus bonus opportunity.
• 100% company-paid medical, dental, life/AD&D, and vision insurance premiums for employees scheduled to work 25+ hours per week. 50% paid premiums for eligible dependents.
• 4 weeks PTO per year plus 11 paid holidays.
• Parental leave benefit.
• Annual compensation reviews.
• State-of-the-art lab and office on bus line and near coffee shops, restaurants, and South Lake Union neighborhood.
• Casual environment, friendly colleagues, and of course, excellent snacks in the kitchen!

Every position requires certain physical capabilities with the major ones for this role noted above. Monod Bio seeks to provide reasonable accommodations that enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential duties when possible. Equal employment opportunity is a fundamental principle at Monod Bio. We are committed to nondiscrimination in all business operations. We are proud to enjoy a respectful and inclusive work environment where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.