Senior Research Associate, DNA Encoded Library Technology ~ Contract

BioSpace; Brisbane (CA); On-site; USD 119,000 - 139,000; Full time

Job summary

Nurix Therapeutics, Inc. in Brisbane, CA seeks a Senior Research Associate to advance DNA-encoded library technologies within our Discovery Chemistry group.

You will design DEL library concepts, synthesize libraries, and collaborate with biology, data science, and automation teams to push DEL-based lead discovery forward. You will contribute to automation efforts, present findings, and help translate DEL innovations into practical screening and hit‑optimization strategies.

Qualifications

• BS or higher in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or Medicinal Chemistry with 5 years of industrial experience.
• Strong background in synthetic organic chemistry.
• Hands-on laboratory experience synthesizing DNA encoded libraries.
• Familiar with the overall DNA-Encoded Library Technology workflow operations.
• Experience analyzing and purifying DNA-conjugates using LCMS/HPLC.
• Experience working in drug discovery, including design, synthesis, and SAR-based hit-to-lead optimization.
• Experience with high-throughput analytical and purification systems for DEL applications.
• Experience with molecular biology tools (PCR, qPCR, Western Blot).

Responsibilities

• Design and validate novel DEL library builds.
• Develop and bring in new DNA-compatible chemical transformations to widen DEL space.
• Construct DEL libraries to support in-house production.
• Collaborate with external partners on DEL synthesis and hit follow-up.
• Engage in cross-functional discussions supporting DEL screening, data analysis, and hit optimization.
• Contribute to platform automation and technology development.
• Present results and document workflows for scientific and strategic planning.

Skills

DNA-encoded libraries

Organic synthesis

LCMS/HPLC

Drug discovery

Education

B.S. or higher in Chemistry/Biochem/Medicinal Chemistry with 5 years industry

Tools

PCR

qPCR

Western Blot

Job description

Nurix Therapeutics is a clinical stage biopharmaceutical company focused on the discovery, development, and commercialization of targeted protein degradation medicines, the next frontier in innovative drug design aimed at improving treatment options for patients with cancer and inflammatory diseases. Powered by a fully AI-integrated discovery engine capable of tackling any protein class, and coupled with unparalleled ligase expertise, Nurix’s dedicated team has built a formidable advantage in translating the science of targeted protein degradation into clinical advancements. Nurix aims to establish degrader-based treatments at the forefront of patient care, writing medicine’s next chapter with a new script to outmatch disease.

Senior Research Associate, DNA Encoded Library Technology – Nurix Brisbane

Responsibilities

We are seeking a talented and motivated chemist to join our Discovery Chemistry team and contribute to the design and synthesis of DNA-encoded libraries (DELs). This hands‑on position offers the opportunity to shape Nurix’s DEL‑based lead discovery platform, working at the interface of chemistry, biology, and automation. Key responsibilities:

• Design and validate novel DEL library builds.
• Develop and bring in new DNA‑compatible chemical transformations that can widen the DEL chemical space.
• Construct DEL libraries to support the in‑house library production efforts.
• Work with external partners to support our DEL synthesis and hit follow up strategies.
• Engage in cross‑functional team discussions that support DEL screening, data analysis, machine learning and hit‑optimization.
• Contribute to platform automation and technology development efforts.
• Present results, document workflows, and contribute to scientific and strategic planning within the Discovery Chemistry organization.

Education And Experience

• B.S. or higher in Chemistry, Biochemistry, or Medicinal Chemistry with 5 years of industrial experience (title determined by experience).
• Strong background in synthetic organic chemistry.
• Hands‑on laboratory experience synthesizing DNA encoded libraries.
• Familiar with the overall DNA‑Encoded Library Technology workflow operations.
• Experience analyzing and purifying DNA‑conjugates using common analytical tools (LCMS/HPLC).

Added Qualifications

• Experience working in the drug discovery field – drug design, synthesis, and SAR based hit‑to‑lead optimization.
• Experience working with high‑throughput analytical and purification systems relevant to DEL-applications.
• Experience working with molecular biology tools (PCR, qPCR, Western Blot).

Fit with Nurix Culture and Values

• Collaborative and team‑oriented, eager to share expertise and learn from others.
• Solution‑driven with a hands‑on and resourceful approach.
• Adaptable and comfortable in a fast‑paced, interdisciplinary environment.
• Committed to scientific excellence and the shared goals of the team.

Location: Brisbane, CA

Salary Range: $119K – $139K

Nurix is an Equal Opportunity Employer offering a competitive salary and benefits package. Applicants should be legally entitled to work for any employer in the US.

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