Assay Development Scientist II – Biochem & Biophysics

WorkLlama, Inc.; Boston (MA); On-site; USD 85,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

WorkLlama, Inc. is seeking a Biochemistry/Biophysics-focused candidate to advance early-stage drug discovery at MRL-Boston. You will develop and optimize biochemical and biophysical assays, study ligand–protein interactions, and drive high-throughput screening alongside a cross-functional team.

The role emphasizes hands-on assay development, kinetic studies, and data-driven decision making to support medicinal chemistry and lead optimization in a collaborative environment.

Qualifications

• BS/BA or MS with industry experience in assay development and compound profiling.
• Experience with biochemical and biophysical techniques used in drug discovery.
• Hands-on assay development and data interpretation skills.

Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, and run quantitative biochemical and biophysical assays.
• Study mechanisms of action and ligand–protein interactions.
• Support HTS campaigns and medicinal chemistry with compound profiling.
• Use advanced modalities to characterize target–ligand binding dynamics.
• Perform kinetic experiments to evaluate enzyme and inhibitor mechanisms.
• Operate automated liquid handlers to streamline throughput.
• Analyze screening data and present findings clearly to team.
• Maintain detailed lab records and optimize workflows.

Skills

Biochemistry

Biophysics

Molecular biology

Assay development

High-throughput screening

Data analysis

Scientific communication

Education

BS/BA in biochemistry/biophysics or related (1-5 years)

MS in biochemistry/biophysics or related (1+ year)

Tools

Echo

Bravo

Biomek

Hamilton

TR-FRET

FP

LC-MS

SPR (BIAcore)

TdF

ITC

Job description

WorkLlama, Inc. is seeking a Biochemistry/Biophysics-focused candidate to advance early-stage drug discovery at MRL-Boston. You will develop and optimize biochemical and biophysical assays, study ligand–protein interactions, and drive high-throughput screening alongside a cross-functional team.

The role emphasizes hands-on assay development, kinetic studies, and data-driven decision making to support medicinal chemistry and lead optimization in a collaborative environment.