(Associate) Scientist Protein Engineering and Molecular Modeling

dsm-firmenich; Delft; On-site; EUR 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Continuous learning and development

Dynamic work environment

Opportunity for impactful innovations

Job summary

dsm-firmenich is seeking an Associate Scientist in Protein Engineering and Molecular Modeling to join their team in Delft, Netherlands. You’ll model enzymes to advance sustainable bioproduction processes and collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to drive biotechnology innovation.

This role requires a PhD in a relevant field, along with experience in protein engineering, and offers benefits like continuous learning and a vibrant work culture.

Qualifications

• PhD or equivalent in Biochemistry, Biophysical Chemistry, Bioinformatics, or Computer Science.
• 2–4 years of experience in protein engineering and molecular modeling.
• Strong understanding of diverse proteins and enzymes.

Responsibilities

• Shape projects in collaboration with business partners.
• Model protein structures to uncover structure–function relationships.
• Develop and apply machine learning and protein AI models.

Skills

Protein engineering

Molecular modeling

Machine learning

Python

Bioinformatics tools

Education

PhD in Biochemistry or related fields

Tools

Rosetta

Schrödinger

Yasara

Job description

Associate Scientist Protein Engineering and Molecular Modeling

Location: Delft, Netherlands

We are seeking a skilled data scientist specializing in protein engineering and molecular modeling to join dsm-firmenich’s Computational Biotechnology team. In this role, you will model and optimize enzymes to support the development of innovative, sustainable bioproduction processes and specialty enzymes. You will translate structure–function insights into practical protein engineering strategies, from biodiversity exploration to library design. Working in multidisciplinary teams, you will collaborate closely with experts to scale molecular insights into real‑world applications. This role offers a hands‑on opportunity to contribute to impactful biotechnology innovations.

Key Responsibilities

• Shape projects in collaboration with business partners, translating objectives into clear and actionable experimental plans
• Model protein structures to uncover structure–function relationships and design targeted mutant or diversity libraries
• Analyze, interpret, and communicate results effectively to stakeholders through reports and presentations
• Develop and apply machine learning and protein AI models to predict and improve structure–function outcomes
• Contribute to best practices and shared computational tools within the global data science and life sciences community
• Collaborate with cross‑functional teams globally while applying modern software and ML practices, including Python and coding tools, to drive project success

Benefits

• The opportunity to join a dynamic and fast‑growing team applying AI/ML and advanced modeling techniques to biotechnology
• A highly motivated, professional, multicultural, and interdisciplinary work environment
• The chance to apply your scientific expertise to innovations in health, nutrition, and beauty
• Continuous learning and development through in‑house training programs
• The opportunity to be part of a company with a strong legacy of industrial innovation and cutting‑edge technology
• A science‑driven organization with over 2,000 scientists and more than 700million annual science & research investments

Qualifications

• A PhD (or equivalent) in Biochemistry, Biophysical Chemistry, Bioinformatics, or Computer Science, with a focus on protein engineering and in silico design
• 2–4 years of experience in protein engineering and molecular modeling, applying modern data‑driven approaches in areas such as metabolic engineering, enzymes, or biocatalysis
• Strong ability to quickly understand diverse proteins and enzymes, leveraging literature and data sources to assess scientific and business relevance
• Proven experience with bioinformatics and protein modeling tools (e.g., Rosetta, Schrödinger, Yasara) and databases such as UniProt, PDB, KEGG, or BRENDA
• Proficiency in Python and modern computational practices, with experience in ML tools, code management, and working in Unix/Linux environments; exposure to advanced simulations or protein AI tools is a plus
• Excellent problem‑solving, collaboration, and communication skills, with a demonstrated track record of innovation and impact

EEO Statement

At dsm‑firmenich, we believe being a force for good starts with the way we treat each other. When people feel supported, included, and free to be themselves, they do their best work – and that’s exactly the kind of culture we’re building. A place where opportunity is truly equal, authenticity is celebrated, and everyone has the chance to grow, contribute, and feel they belong.

We’re proud to be an equal opportunity employer, and we’re serious about making our hiring process as fair and inclusive as possible. From inclusive language and diverse interview panels to thoughtful sourcing, we’re committed to reflecting the world we serve.

We welcome candidates from all backgrounds — no matter your gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, or anything else that makes you, you. And if you have a disability or need any support through the application process, we’re here to help – just let us know what you need, and we’ll do everything we can to make it work.