Principal Scientist, Protein Modeling and Engineering

Draper Labs; Cambridge; On-site; USD 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a Protein Modeling and Engineering Scientist to join their innovative Bioengineering Division. This role involves developing cutting-edge biotechnology solutions in a collaborative environment, focusing on computational protein modeling and wet-lab validation. The ideal candidate will thrive in a dynamic setting, showcasing strong problem-solving skills and a passion for innovation. With a commitment to work-life balance and employee development, this opportunity offers a chance to contribute to impactful national challenges while fostering your career in a supportive atmosphere.

Benefits

Workplace Flexibility

Employee Clubs

Health Workshops

Finance Workshops

Off-site Social Events

Discounts to Local Museums

Qualifications

• 5-7 years of experience in Bioengineering or related engineering.
• Strong foundation in biology and engineering principles.

Responsibilities

• Drive solutions to complex bioengineering problems independently.
• Document and teach best practices to less experienced bioengineers.

Skills

Protein Modeling

Computational Biology

Team Collaboration

Problem Solving

Communication Skills

Time Management

Microsoft Office

Programming (Python)

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Bioengineering or related field

Master's Degree (preferred)

Tools

Rosetta

AlphaFold

AWS

Job description

Overview:

Draper is an independent, nonprofit research and development company headquartered in Cambridge, MA. The 2,000+ employees of Draper tackle important national challenges with a promise of delivering successful and usable solutions. From military defense and space exploration to biomedical engineering, lives often depend on the solutions we provide. Our multidisciplinary teams of engineers and scientists work in a collaborative environment that inspires the cross-fertilization of ideas necessary for true innovation. For more information about Draper, visit www.draper.com.

Job Description Summary:

The Bioengineering Division is seeking a highly motivated and skilled Protein Modeling and Engineering Scientist to join a team developing cutting-edge biotechnology solutions for our Synthetic Biology R&D program area, which includes a new and expanded 13,000 square foot BSL-2 laboratory in our Kendall Square location.

The ideal candidate will be fluent in computational protein modeling/design strategies, with prior experience in protein modeling, structure prediction, and wet-lab characterization. This technical position requires computational work as well as collaboration with multidisciplinary teams to analyze data, presentation of findings, and brainstorming of new ideas.

The position also requires teamwork, tenacity, and attention to detail. We offer an atmosphere that fosters innovation, a supportive team environment, intellectual freedom and creativity, and an emphasis on career development.

Job Description:

Duties/Responsibilities
* Independently drive solutions to complex problems.
* Develop requirements for innovative bioengineering solutions, propose ways forward when customer requirements are unclear or incomplete, and adapt appropriately to changes in requirements.
* Subject Matter Expert (SME) able to perform advanced research and analysis for complex bioengineering solutions.
* Develop, document, and teach best practices to less experienced bioengineers; Demonstrate strong organization, planning, and time management skills to achieve goals.
* Performs other duties as assigned.

Skills/Abilities
* Strong foundation in biology and/or engineering principles.
* Team player, dedicated, collaborative, observant, and motivated.
* Excellent organizational skills, attention to detail, and verbal and written communication skills.
* Creative problem-solving skills and a passion for innovation.
* Excellent time management skills with the proven ability to meet deadlines and prioritize tasks.
* Enthusiasm for learning and participating in mentorship/mentoring.
* Proficiency with Microsoft Office Applications.

Education
Requires either a Bachelor's Degree in Bioengineering, Biomedical Engineering, Biochemistry, Chemistry, Cell Biology, Immunology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Mechanical Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Physics or related fields. Master's degree preferred.

Experience
Requires 5-7 years of Bioengineering or related engineering experience.

Additional Job Description:

• Demonstrated track record in computational protein modeling with wet-lab validation
• 2+ years of experience using Rosetta, AlphaFold in protein modeling and validation
• Strong understanding of protein biochemistry or biophysics related to protein structure/function
• Fluency in one or more programming languages (Python preferred)

• Strong leadership skills with experience in managing and mentoring scientific teams

*Excellent communication, presentation, and organizational skills

• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, innovative, and collaborative environment

*Interest in writing proposals/grants and participating in the formation of new programs to solve the nation's most challenging problems

• Strong Research experience in Bioinformatics, Computational Biology, Biochemistry, Biophysics, or a related Biological science field.

Preferred:

• Experience with development and application of AI/ML methods and models for protein structure analysis and modeling
• Experience with cloud computing (i.e. AWS) and software
• Expertise with experimental techniques in protein engineering and high-throughput analysis
• Demonstrated ability to communicate ideas in proposal/grant formats

Applicants selected for this position will be required to obtain and maintain a U.S. Security Clearance.

Connect With Draper for Future Opportunities! If you don't find the right posting in our Career Opportunities, you may submit your resume for future consideration.

Job Location - City:

Cambridge

Job Location - State:

Massachusetts

Job Location - Postal Code:

02139-3563

Our work is very important to us, but so is our life outside of work. Draper supports many programs to improve work-life balance including workplace flexibility, employee clubs ranging from photography to yoga, health and finance workshops, off site social events and discounts to local museums and cultural activities. If this specific job opportunity and the chance to work at a nationally renowned R&D innovation company appeals to you, apply now www.draper.com/careers.

Draper is committed to creating an inclusive environment. We understand the value of inclusivity and its impact on a high-performance culture. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, disability, age, sexual orientation, national origin, veteran status, or genetic information. Draper is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities. To request reasonable accommodation, please contact [e-mail].