Scientist II, Biomolecular Characterization

BigHat; San Mateo (CA); On-site; USD 145,000 - 165,000; Full time

Job summary

BigHat Biosciences in San Mateo, CA is seeking a Scientist II (or Senior Scientist I) in Biomolecular Characterization to drive antibody–antigen binding studies, develop new assay capabilities, and support program decisions across teams.

The role emphasizes BLI/SPR-based binding analysis, assay design across formats, and collaboration with automation and production groups to scale high-throughput kinetics work. A PhD with 2–5 years experience or MSc with 5+ years is preferred.

Qualifications

• Ph.D. 2–5 years, or MSc with 5+ years of independent research and development experience in an industry setting, including substantial experience with binding assays including BLI, SPR, ELISA/MSD and Flow Cytometry workflows.
• Fluency in bioanalytical science, biochemistry, biophysics, and assay design.
• Experience with lab automation and collaboration with automation engineers.
• Strong data analysis, written/verbal/visual communication, and stakeholder education.
• Ability to align scientific direction across diverse stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Develop and optimize high- and low-throughput strategies to characterize antibody–antigen interactions using BLI and SPR.
• Implement best practices for binding assay design across formats.
• Troubleshoot assay issues and build mechanistic understanding for decision makers.
• Collaborate with science teams to accelerate hits from discovery to lead optimization.
• Communicate results clearly to BigHat teams and leadership.
• Partner with automation, software, and production teams to scale high-throughput kinetics assays.

Skills

Binding analysis

Data analysis

Communication

Stakeholder alignment

Lab automation

Cross-functional collaboration

Education

PhD or MSc with extensive industry experience in binding assays

Tools

Carterra

Cytiva

Sartorius

Job description

Scientist II, Biomolecular Characterization

Department: Lab Science

Employment Type: Full Time

Location: San Mateo, CA

Description

The role: BigHat Biosciences is seeking an exceptional individual for a Scientist II or Senior Scientist I in Biomolecular Characterization* role to drive characterization of in vitro antibody-target binding behavior, develop new assay capabilities, and represent the team across BigHat’s programs.

*At BigHat we believe in titles that are commensurate with skill set, relative organizational impact, and value contribution; more or less experienced candidates are encouraged to apply, with the understanding that responsibilities and title would adjust as appropriate.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop, optimize, and implement high- and low-throughput state-of-the-art strategies to characterize the interactions between antibody and antigen using biolayer interferometry (BLI) and surface plasmon resonance (SPR).
• Implement best practices for binding assay design across various bioanalytical assay formats.
• Troubleshoot and diagnose assay issues, building foundational understanding of antibody/antigen interactions that stakeholders can act on.
• Collaborate closely with BigHat’s science organization to accelerate hits from discovery through lead optimization and candidate nomination.
• Effectively synthesize and communicate results and research activity to key decision makers and the broader BigHat team.
• Partner with automation engineering, software engineering, and production teams to scale and productionize high-throughput kinetics assays.

Skills Knowledge and Expertise

• Ph.D. 2-5 years, or M.Sc with 5+ years of independent research and development experience in an industry setting, including substantial experience with binding assays including BLI, SPR, ELISA/MSD and Flow Cytometry workflows (preferably across Carterra, Cytiva and Sartorius instrumentation).
• Practical and theoretical fluency in bioanalytical science, biochemistry, biophysics, assay design and development (experience in both complex and buffered matrices preferred).
• Experience with lab automation and working with automation engineers (preferred).
• Strong data analysis and interpretation skills coupled to exceptional written, verbal, and visual communication skills.
• Ability to educate and build consensus among diverse stakeholders regarding scientific direction.

Total Rewards

The salary estimated for this position is $145,000 - $165,000 + bonus + options + benefits. Compensation will vary depending on job-related knowledge, skills, and experience. Actual compensation will be confirmed in writing at the time of the offer.