Research Scientist/Engineer-Senior

University of Washington; Seattle (WA); On-site; USD 144,000 - 168,000; Full time

Job summary

The University of Washington's Institute for Protein Design seeks a Research Scientist/Engineer Senior to provide scientific and programmatic leadership for advanced protein-design initiatives. The role oversees complex, international collaborations, directs de novo design work, and drives external funding proposals for programs like POEM and DOE Genesis Mission.

The position reports to the IPD Director and ARIA program managers, with responsibilities spanning strategic direction, staff

Qualifications

• PhD in Biochemistry, Chemistry or Materials Science is required.
• 7+ years of related experience in the field.
• Advanced expertise in de novo protein design of protein–inorganic interfaces.
• Proven leadership of complex multi-institution research programs with external funding.
• Established international collaborative network in protein design and materials science.

Responsibilities

• Plan and direct the ARIA POEM research program across multiple organizations and disciplines.
• Set scientific direction, oversee methodology, data acquisition, interpretation and hypotheses.
• Interface with grant sponsors and UW management; deliver results to external funders.
• Mentor staff and contribute to post-doctoral hiring processes and scientific development.
• Lead the UW-Genesis DOE mission efforts and prepare for Phase II contracts; maintain external relationships.

Skills

de novo protein design

leadership

international collaborations

Education

PhD in Biochemistry, Chemistry or Materials Science

Job description

Job Description

The Institute for Protein Design has an outstanding opportunity for Research Scientist/Engineer Senior to join their team.

About This Opportunity

The position provides scientific and programmatic leadership for the Institute for Protein Design's (IPD) research into designing protein-inorganic interfaces to control the formation of protein-inorganic hybrids. This role leads the design, execution, and delivery of the IPD's externally funded materials research initiatives, including the ARIA-funded program Protein Organised Engineered Materials (POEM). The position establishes and leads international collaborations for this program and reports directly to David Baker, Director of the IPD, and to Programme Managers at ARIA (the UK's Advanced Research and Invention Agency).

Purpose Of The Research Project(s):

The position directs a complex research program that integrates multiple disciplines: de novo protein design, high-throughput materials synthesis screening, microfluidic screening of soft-matter phase changes, structural characterization of complex hybrid materials, and functional magnetic characterization. It requires independent judgment to establish and maintain scientific direction in an emerging field with uncertain outcomes, coordinate an international team of scientific partners across three institutions, and provide deliverables to external funders. It involves preparing major funding proposals, maintaining accountability for their deliverables, and presenting the results of research programs to the broader scientific community.

Key Responsibilities

Leads the ARIA POEM research program (50%)

• Serves as Project Lead.
• Plans and directs the technically complex research program, which involves multiple organizations and disciplines.
• Scopes the project, assembles the team, develops the project plan including milestones and go/no-go decision points, and defines the technical approach for meeting the research program's goals.
• Sets the scientific direction and objectives, oversees implementation of methodology, directs data acquisition and interpretation, and formulates hypotheses across the program.
• Interfaces with the grant sponsor and UW management on the ongoing program. Project results impact the UW research mission and are visible in the peer community.
• Leads the interdisciplinary project team and provides major input to its staffing, including service on the Baker Lab's post-doctoral hiring committee, and mentors staff in development of technical, scientific, and project management skills.

Leads UW's role on the DOE Genesis Mission project (25%)

• Serves as Senior Personnel for UW's portion of the PNNL-led DOE Genesis Mission project (Phase I).
• Leads UW's work toward a multi-year Phase II contract with the DOE Office of Science, Basic Energy Sciences.
• Maintains external research relationships to identify and develop this new funding source.
• Mentors staff in development of scientific and technical skills.

Conducts and directs an independent research program (15%)

• Plans and directs research applying de novo protein design to the control of inorganic crystal growth and the design of macroscopic functional hybrid materials.
• Develops innovative new methods and extends the technology into new application areas.
• Establishes recognition as a scientific leader in the design of protein-inorganic interfaces, advancing the state of the art in the field.

Leads research funding acquisition and proposal development (5%)

• Initiates new project concepts and seeks funding sources.
• Develops technical proposals and makes presentations to grant sponsors.
• Identifies grant and project extensions and applies for funding.

Presents research and represents the program externally (5%)

• Gives invited talks and participates in external seminars, workshops, and professional societies and committees.
• Uses an established and growing peer network to expand technical capabilities and identify new research opportunities at the national and international level.

Required Qualifications

To be considered for this opportunity your application must demonstrate you meet both the minimum qualifications and additional qualifications listed below. Equivalent education and/or experience may substitute for minimum qualifications except when there are legal requirements, such as a license, certification, and/or registration

Minimum Qualifications

Doctoral Degree in Biochemistry, chemistry or material sciences and 7 years of experience in related field.

Additional Qualifications

Advanced expertise in de novo protein design of protein-inorganic interfaces. Demonstrated leadership of complex, multi-institution research programs, including securing external funding and organizing and directing research teams.

Minimum Qualifications

An established international collaborative network connecting protein design to materials science. Experience establishing interdisciplinary research collaborations.

Compensation, Benefits And Position Details

Pay Range Minimum:

$144,000.00 annual

Pay Range Maximum:

$168,000.00 annual

Benefits:

Other Compensation: For information about benefits for this position, visit https://www.washington.edu/jobs/benefits-for-uw-staff/

Shift:

First Shift (United States of America)

Temporary or Regular?

This is a regular position

FTE (Full-Time Equivalent):

100.00%

Union/Bargaining Unit:

Not Applicable

About The UW

Working at the University of Washington provides a unique opportunity to change lives – on our campuses, in our state and around the world. UW employees bring their boundless energy, creative problem-solving skills and dedication to building stronger minds and a healthier world. In return, they enjoy outstanding benefits, opportunities for professional growth and the chance to work in an environment known for its diversity, intellectual excitement, artistic pursuits and natural beauty.

Our Commitment

The University of Washington is committed to fostering an inclusive, respectful and welcoming community for all. As an equal opportunity employer, the University considers applicants for employment without regard to race, color, creed, religion, national origin, citizenship, sex, pregnancy, age, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, genetic information, disability, or veteran status consistent with UW Executive Order No. 81.

To request disability accommodation in the application process, contact the Disability Services Office at 206-543-6450 or [e-mail].

Applicants considered for this position will be required to disclose if they are the subject of any substantiated findings or current investigations related to sexual misconduct at their current employment and past employment. Disclosure is required under Washington state law.